Category: EDUCATION
Les Roches Announces Plans to Establish Its Region’s First Hospitality Education Academy with DCT in Abu Dhabi
The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) has announced the establishment of a cutting-edge hospitality education academy in Abu Dhabi in September 2024. The academy will be managed and guided under the stewardship of Les Roches, a globally acclaimed hospitality and leisure higher education institution, with the objective of providing hospitality skills and academic knowledge to nurture homegrown talent in the UAE and in the region.
With a vision to elevate the hospitality sector, Les Roches Global Hospitality’s first campus in the area will welcome its first students in September 2024. Founded in 1954 in Switzerland, Les Roches ranks fourth in the world’s higher education institutions for hospitality and leisure management (QS World University Rankings by Subject, 2023). The hospitality education academy will be uniquely defined by its objective to attract Emiratis and regional talents to the industry, offering them exceptional education and ensuring their seamless transition into key roles and leadership positions within the sector.
The academy will provide top-tier education that is authentic, uniquely Emirati, and futureproof. Differentiating itself through a unique and bespoke Emirati approach, practices and values of authentic traditions are brought to the forefront in its curriculum. Immersive experiences in UAE hospitality will be the unifying bridge, bringing together global and local students and audiences. The distinctive programme and methodology aims to future-proof the UAE hospitality sector by cultivating local talent with high-quality education and skills needed for the industry’s future.
HE Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi), said: ” In line with our vision of inspiring journeys of creativity and discovery, the new academy will play a key role in ensuring the long-term sustainable growth of the hospitality industry, propelling future generations with a keen interest to reach their full potential. Celebrating Emirati hospitality, the academy will add to our diverse ecosystem that empowers local talent and will continue to contribute to Abu Dhabi’s growth as a dynamic and sustainable hub for tourism and culture”.
Les Roches’ model in hospitality education balances theory with practice, and independent learning with strong faculty support and mentorship, providing a solid foundation for advancement and ensuring that students acquire personal and professional skills for immediate employment and progression into leadership positions in the industry.
Carlos Díez de la Lastra, CEO of Les Roches Global Hospitality, commented: “This moment marks a new chapter in the history of a country and a region that have some of the most prestigious hotels in the world, and that are futureproofing themselves by training and preparing the next generation of industry leaders that uphold the values and authenticity of Emirati hospitality. We are very honoured to be part of this unique journey and contribute to raise the talents of tomorrow for the country.”
Benoît-Etienne Domenget,Sommet Education CEO, said: “We are excited to be involved in a project that is born out of the leadership’s vision for the future of the hospitality sector in the emirate, and honoured to support Abu Dhabi in putting people’s development as a strategic priority.”
With a focus on hospitality excellence, innovation, and cultural exchange, the academy is set to provide a comprehensive educational spectrum that welcomes talents from all around the world. Featuring a bachelor’s degree and two master’s degrees, combining conventional hospitality education programmes with specialised Emirati-centric courses to deliver tailored training to students.
Additionally, the curriculum includes a range of hospitality-related and practical skills certifications, across areas like hotel operations, travel, tourism, transport, and entrepreneurship. While more information about the academy, its courses, and enrolment procedures will be disclosed at a later date, this multifaceted approach underscores the institution’s commitment to equipping students with a diverse skill set for success in the dynamic hospitality industry. The new academy is expected to foster growth, creativity and deliver unmatched experiences that span beyond hospitality to include gastronomy, adventure, nature, and more.
Amway India’s Power of 5 Goes to School: Empowering Young Minds with Nutrition Literacy
India’s nutrition challenge goes beyond food access; it’s about awareness and education around healthy eating and healthy habits. Reaffirming its vision of helping people live better lives, Amway India, a leading company supporting health and wellbeing needs, in collaboration with Nourishing Schools Foundation, announces the launch of the School Nutrition Education Program under its flagship ‘Power of 5 (Po5)’ project in the Capital today. The program partners with 12 Government and NGO-run schools across Delhi and Chennai. The initiative is expected to benefit more than 12,000 people, including 3,000 school-going children, in its first year. The launch event coincided with National Nutrition Week and aligned with the theme ‘Eat Right for a Better Life’, highlighting the importance of nutrition literacy and healthy habits from an early age.
Speaking on this, Rajneesh Chopra, Managing Director, Amway India, stated, “School-age is a decisive stage to shape lifelong habits, and nutrition is at the heart of that journey. According to the Comprehensive National Nutrition Survey (CNNS)[1], every second adolescent faces poor nutrition, with widespread deficiencies in iron, vitamin A, and zinc. By investing in early, preventive action, we are not just teaching children about healthy diets; we are empowering them to become agents of change in their communities. This partnership with the Nourishing Schools Foundation is an extension of our commitment to help transform 5 million lives in India through an inclusive, community-driven approach. It reflects our broader social impact philosophy, integrating health and wellbeing into everything we do, building need-based, evidence-led interventions, and working hand-in-hand with grassroots organisations, government, and global agencies.”
The initiative brings together multiple stakeholders from corporate to Non-Profit organisations and the Delhi education department, to promote integrated approaches to improving nutrition education among school-going children. It reinforces Amway’s mission to help build a healthier, well-nourished India. Through a combination of student-led showcases, thought-provoking discussions, and the unveiling of the School Nutrition Education Program Toolkit, the launch event underscored the role of schools as powerful platforms for driving behaviour change, building food literacy, and empowering children to become advocates for community health.
Amway’s Po5 School Nutrition Education program is a 12-month intervention that aims to improve the health, nutrition, and learning outcomes of schoolchildren by integrating nutrition education into daily school activities. Central to the program is a specially designed nutrition toolkit featuring games, educational materials, and visual aids that make learning about nutrition interactive, engaging, and fun for children.It focuses on key areas: boosting nutrition awareness to encouraging healthy habits, training teachers, tracking progress, engaging volunteers, and empowering children to take charge of their wellbeing.
Aligned with the Government of India’s vision for Viksit Bharat by 2047, Amway India believes that empowering children with nutrition literacy today will create a generation that can champion healthier communities tomorrow. The company envisions that these children, equipped with the right knowledge, will emerge as advocates for healthy living. This, in turn, will create a ripple effect of awareness across communities and generations.
Archana Sinha, Co-founder, Nourishing Schools Foundation, added: “Schools have an unparalleled ability to shape young minds and influence family and community behaviours. By equipping children with the right knowledge, skills, and resources, we can create a ripple effect of healthier choices that lasts a lifetime. This collaboration with Amway India is about combining expertise, resources, and vision to make nutrition education a core part of the learning experience for every child.”
With a firm belief that good health is achieved through informed choices, Amway India has consistently championed empowering individuals to take charge of their wellbeing. From investing in school-based nutrition education to fostering community-driven health initiatives, the company integrates evidence-led strategies with grassroots partnerships to create lasting impact. By continually offering practical, need-based nutrition solutions, Amway reaffirms its unwavering dedication to improving the health and wellbeing of communities for a healthier India.
ICAI Brings Together Leaders, Experts to Shape Next-Gen CA Curriculum
The Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI), through its Board of Studies (Academic), organised a “Brainstorming Meet for Academic Excellence” in New Delhi. The meet brought together past and present leaders of ICAI, industry experts, academicians and professionals to deliberate on strengthening the academic framework of the Chartered Accountancy profession.
The deliberations focused on enhancing the quality and relevance of academic initiatives, aligning learning with global benchmarks and preparing students for emerging areas such as sustainability, fintech, data science, digital learning and industry-linked case studies.
Speaking on the occasion, CA. Charanjot Singh Nanda, President, ICAI, said, “Academic excellence is the cornerstone of ICAI’s global reputation. The Chartered Accountant of tomorrow must be a multidimensional professional, a trusted advisor, a technology-driven leader, a global citizen and an ethical guardian of public interest. Our new curriculum, aligned with the National Education Policy and global standards, places strong emphasis on practical learning, technology integration and soft skills. By incorporating contemporary subjects such as Data Analytics, Artificial Intelligence, ESG and Forensic Accounting, alongside digital learning tools, we aim to nurture analytical and entrepreneurial abilities that prepare students to seize opportunities in emerging sectors and adapt to evolving industry trends.”
Highlighting ICAI’s recent initiatives, CA. Prasanna Kumar D, Vice President, ICAI, stated, “ICAI is committed not only to academic excellence but also to the holistic development of students. Through initiatives like the mentorship programme CA सारथी (CA Saarthi), which connects experienced Chartered Accountants with students for personalized guidance and motivation and platforms such as Charcha Ka Vishay: CA Pariksha – Let’s Talk: The CA Exam, designed to resolve queries and boost confidence, we are creating a supportive ecosystem. These efforts ensure that our students emerge not just as excellent accountants, but as visionary leaders prepared for the future.”
Expert Deliberations on Practical and Strategic Reforms
The brainstorming meet featured expert discussions on taxation, accounting, law, auditing and career development, recommending actionable reforms to integrate practical exposure, innovation and ethical application of technology in the CA curriculum.
The Taxation session recommended multidisciplinary case studies and ethical integration of AI in the CA course. The Accounting session stressed practical learning, gamification, government accounting and CFO interactions, while the Law session focused on advocacy skills, legal interpretation and court preparedness.
The Auditing session emphasized on inclusion of practical audit methodologies and the introduction of start-up audits, recognizing their unique models and compliance challenges. The discussions also highlighted the need to strengthen advanced career development pathways for Chartered Accountants, enabling them to move from CFO roles to CEO leadership, foster entrepreneurial capabilities and cultivate the strategic and analytical thinking required to excel in today’s dynamic business environment.
This initiative reaffirms ICAI’s commitment to nurturing future-ready Chartered Accountants who can meet global professional challenges with competence, adaptability and integrity.
CA. Hans Raj Chugh, Chairman, BoS (A), ICAI, stated, “Chartered Accountants are not only financial advisors but also nation builders. In today’s rapidly evolving global landscape, ICAI is constantly reimagining how it prepares students to stay relevant and indispensable. With initiatives like comprehensive study resources, live virtual classes, mentorship programmes and open house sessions, ICAI is fostering a supportive and future-ready learning environment for aspiring professionals.”
The British Council announce GREAT scholarships 2025 for Indian students
The British Council, UK’s international organisation for cultural relations and educational opportunities has announced the GREAT Scholarships 2025, in partnership with the UK government’s GREAT Britain campaign. The GREAT Scholarships offer students from India the opportunity to undertake postgraduate studies in the UK across various fields of study.
Offering 26 scholarships in India from UK universities across diverse subjects for students from across the country, each scholarship is worth a minimum of £10,000 towards tuition fees for a one-year postgraduate course. For the 2025 admissions cycle, scholarships are available across three primary categories. Twenty-one scholarships are offered for students pursuing diverse academic disciplines within core subjects. Two scholarships are dedicated to those undertaking postgraduate studies in justice and law, focusing on legal and justice-oriented fields. Additionally, three scholarships are available for aspiring leaders in science and technology, specifically within STEM disciplines.
The UK is renowned for its high-quality education and globally respected universities, many of which consistently rank among the top in international rankings. Studying in the UK provides students with access to high-quality education and world-renowned universities. The UK’s robust post-study work options further enhance employability, offering students the opportunity to gain valuable experience and boost their career prospects on an international scale.
Rittika Chanda Parruck MBE, Director of Education India, British Council, said “The GREAT Scholarships provide an invaluable opportunity for Indian students to pursue postgraduate studies in the UK, opening doors to a wide range of disciplines such as Finance, Marketing, Business, Psychology, Design, Humanities, and Dance. Studying in the UK not only grants access to world-class education from renowned universities but also immerses students in diverse cultural experiences and global networks, preparing them to excel in their careers and thrive in a competitive global job market. This initiative reflects our commitment to fostering global education and empowering students to excel in their chosen fields”.
Jointly funded by the UK government’s GREAT Britain Campaign, the British Council, and participating UK higher education institutions, these scholarships underscore the UK’s commitment to furthering academic excellence and creating global opportunities for students.
Toyota Kirloskar Motor Lays Foundation for Life Skills Training Centre for Bharat Scouts & Guides
- The facility will benefit over 2400 students
- This initiative will help students develop life skills to shape their future
- Construction to be executed between FY 2025-27
Reinforcing its commitment to community development through education, skill enhancement, and youth-focused initiatives, Toyota Kirloskar Motor (TKM) announced the groundbreaking of the Bharat Scouts & Guides (BSG) Training and Camping Centre in Chikmagalur district of Karnataka.
Through this initiative, Toyota Kirloskar Motor seeks to empower young minds by nurturing life skills, leadership qualities, and civic responsibility. The new facility will serve as a vibrant hub for training, workshops, and outdoor activities, providing Scouts and Guides with opportunities to learn, collaborate, and grow. With dedicated spaces for education, recreation, and skill-building, the centre will be designed to foster holistic development and strengthen community engagement. By supporting the Bharat Scouts & Guides Training and Camping Centre, TKM reaffirms its commitment to youth empowerment, ensuring students are equipped to realize their potential and contribute meaningfully to society.
Planned to benefit more than 2,400 students annually, the upcoming facility will cater to students not just from Chikmagalur but also adjoining districts, providing state-of-the-art training infrastructure. The project is expected to commence construction from January 2026, with completion expected by March 2027.
Speaking on the occasion, Sudeep Santram Dalvi, Chief Communication Officer, Senior Vice President and Head State Affairs, Toyota Kirloskar Motor, said, “We believe in encouraging holistic growth among the youth by nurturing skills and values that help them evolve into confident, self-reliant, and socially responsible citizens. The project will be made possible through close collaboration with local authorities, community leaders, and Bharat Scouts & Guides, ensuring a collective effort towards creating a lasting impact.
By supporting this Training and Camping Centre, we are not just building modern infrastructure but also creating opportunities for students in Chikmagalur to develop important life skills, leadership competencies and social responsibility. This facility will benefit students and volunteers across the region, reflecting our commitment to youth empowerment, community development, and inspiring the next generation to take initiative, embrace challenges, and positively impact their communities.”
The groundbreaking ceremony was graced by distinguished dignitaries, including Mr. H. D. Thimmaiah, M L A, Chikmagaluru Constituency, Karnataka, PGR Sindhia, State Chief Commissioner, Bharat Scouts & Guides, along with Mr. Roshan R, General Manager of Toyota Kirloskar Motor, and other senior officials from TKM and BSG.
Toyota Kirloskar Motor is extending its support towards developing essential infrastructure at the campus. This initiative will include the construction of an administrative block, a fully equipped kitchen with a dining hall, dormitory for girls and boys, sanitation facilities, and ten tent units capable of accommodating up to 100 students.
Appreciating TKM’s efforts towards the betterment of society, PGR Sindhia, State Chief Commissioner, Bharat Scouts & Guides,said,“The Bharat Scouts & Guides play an invaluable role in shaping the character, discipline, and leadership abilities of young minds across Karnataka. The new training and camping centre at Chikmagalur will open up multiple opportunities for students in this region. We appreciate TKM’s support in constructing this facility and are positive that this facility will serve as a hub for nurturing well-rounded, future-ready citizens.”
Reflecting the shared vision of nurturing well-rounded citizens, Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports actively promotes Scouting & Guiding as a tool for youth development, focusing on value education, national integration, and skill-building. And NEP 2020 emphasizes life skills education as a core component of holistic learning.
BSG is India’s largest youth group, helping young people grow through voluntary service. It teaches values, leadership, teamwork, and self-reliance through skill training, outdoor activities, and community projects, supporting the overall development of school and college students. Presently, BSG operates two state-level training and camping centres in Karnataka at Doddaballapura (Bengaluru) and Davanagere, along with several district centres across the state.
Since 2001, Toyota Kirloskar Motor has been working to uplift communities across Education, Environment, Road Safety, Skill Development, Health & Hygiene, and Disaster Management. At TKM, Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) reflects a deep commitment to fostering meaningful socio-economic development. Guided by its ‘Child to Community’ approach and need-based interventions, the company goes beyond expectations, staying true to its vision of delivering ever-better cars, while nurturing ever-better communities and producing mass happiness.
Horse riding and ballet are both about grace, balance and focus
Demonstrating the spirit of all-round excellence, Ishta Iusta, a 9th grade student from the Bannerghatta campus, clinched the Gold medal in Dressage at the Karnataka State Equestrian Championship 2025 recently, held by the Karnataka State Equestrian Association at the Embassy International Riding School, Bengaluru. She has been participating in this sport since 2020 and since then, she has steadily honed her skills, earning recognition for her dedication and performance.
The competition brought together the state’s best young riders, where Ishta competed against 23 participants and delivered a poised and technically brilliant performance, outshining many seasoned participants in her category. This victory adds to her growing list of accolades in equestrian sports, having already won several medals in both Jumping and Dressage disciplines over the past year. In the past, she has competed in the Equestrian Premier League, where she secured multiple medals and showcased her growing prowess in the sport.
Beyond the riding arena, Ishta has also earned Distinction in Grade 2 Ballet, certified by the Imperial Society of Teachers of Dancing (ISTD), UK, in a highly competitive exam. Over the years, she has won a total of 14 medals in jumping and dressage. Her achievements reflect not just talent, but immense discipline, passion, and commitment to mastering diverse art forms.
Sharing her excitement, Ishta said, “Horse riding and ballet are both about grace, balance, and focus. I love both equally, and I’m thankful to my trainers, my parents, and Greenwood High for supporting me in every step of my journey. Every performance and every ride teaches me something new, and I’m excited to keep growing, learning, and doing what I love.”
Speaking on the accomplishment, Mrs. Niru Agarwal, Managing Trustee, Greenwood High International School said: “We are immensely proud of Ishta’s accomplishments. Her success is a shining example of how holistic education and individual encouragement can bring out the best in our students, whether in academics, sports, or the arts. At Greenwood High, we strive to nurture passion and potential equally.”
As she continues to ride ahead on her journey of excellence, Ishta remains an inspiring example of how young learners can achieve greatness across disciplines with the right environment, consistent support, and unwavering passion.
EDUCATION – Page 2
Seth M. R. Jaipuria Schools, India’s most respected education brand, renowned for its exceptional K-12 educational approach, has announced plans for further impetus of expansion in the State of Bihar. This expansion aims to provide a unique educational experience, blending modern perspectives with traditional values to at least 20,000 more students in the state. At […]
Renowned Gynaecologist Joins Manipal Hospital Gurugram to Strengthen Women’s Health
Manipal Hospital, one of the leading healthcare institutions in Gurugram, welcomes renowned surgeon Dr Amita Shah, Chairman & HOD, Obstetrics & Gynecology, Laparoscopy Endoscopy. Dr Shah has joined the expert team of Manipal Hospital Gurugram, to strengthen and enhance the medical expertise of healthcare delivery to the people of Gurugram. Through dedicated women’s wellness and preventive health initiatives, she contributes to early detection and long-term health planning.
Dr Amita Shah will further enhance Manipal Hospital’s expertise with extensive knowledge and experience spanning more than 29 years in diagnosing and treating numerous complex gynaecological issues. She is an expert in procedures like 3D and Robotic-Assisted Laparoscopic Gynaecological Surgeries, Gynae Oncology – Screening & Management, Infertility & Reproductive Endocrinology and many more. Her focus is to provide preventive health, advanced management of gynaecological disorders, and fertility care through a dedicated specialty clinic that has cutting-edge technology to treat advanced gynaecological issues. She is an active member of the Indian Fertility Society (IFS) and the Indian Association of Gynae Endoscopists (IAGE). Her addition to the team strengthens the hospital’s capabilities in providing comprehensive heart care.
Dr Shah practices a 360-degree approach to women’s health, providing care from conception through childbirth and postnatal vaccination, making Manipal Hospital a one-stop destination for maternity and reproductive care. She will play a key role in various Obstetrics and Gynecological programs such as Spandan, a parent support initiative aimed at easing the journey of parenthood through expert-led educational sessions and Manipal Sakhi, a comprehensive health card packed with exclusive patient benefits for women.
Expressing his enthusiasm for joining the team, Navin Pascal, Hospital Director, Manipal Hospital, Gurugram, said, “We are delighted to have Dr Amita Shah in our team of medical experts. With a wealth of experience in women’s healthcare, Dr. Shah brings with her a deep commitment to clinical excellence and patient-centered care. Her expertise across complex gynaecological procedures, high-risk obstetrics, and holistic reproductive health makes her a valuable addition to our multidisciplinary team. With her being a part of Manipal Hospital, we will be able to deliver advanced clinical management of gynaecological disorders, including minimally invasive and robotic surgeries for faster recovery and improved outcomes. At Manipal Hospital, we are dedicated to continuously enhancing the quality and scope of our healthcare services. Her joining marks a significant step in our ongoing efforts to elevate healthcare standards in Gurugram and assure our position as a trusted leader in women’s health.”
STAIRS Foundation Appoints Dr. Sunil Purohit to Spearhead Physical Education and Sport Science Division – INDIAN NEWS & TIMES
The Society for Transformation, Inclusion, and Recognition through Sports (STAIRS), headquartered in New Delhi, India, proudly announces the appointment of Dr Sunil Purohit as the National Head of the esteemed Physical Education and Sports Science Division. This significant development underscores STAIRS Foundation’s commitment to promoting sports excellence and nurturing young talent, aligning with the United Nations’ vision for inclusive and empowering opportunities for youth worldwide.
In his new capacity as National Head, Dr Purohit assumes a critical role in shaping the future of sports education, research initiatives, and coach training at STAIRS Foundation. Leveraging his profound expertise and dedication to excellence, Dr Purohit’s leadership will undoubtedly foster the growth and potential of athletes and coaches associated with the organisation, contributing to sustainable development in the realm of sports.
Welcoming Dr Purohit, Shri Siddhartha Upadhyay,President of STAIRS Foundation and Former Governing Council Member of Sports Authority of India, expressed, “The arrival of Dr Sunil Purohit marks a momentous occasion for STAIRS Foundation. His unwavering passion for sports and deep-rooted expertise in sports science will strengthen our organisation’s impact, advancing a brighter future for aspiring athletes and sports enthusiasts nationwide.”
“I am truly honoured and exhilarated to be a part of the STAIRS Foundation, an institution that shares my unwavering zeal for sports and empowering the next generation of athletes,” expressed Dr Sunil Purohit. “I eagerly look forward to collaborating with STAIRS in fostering a brighter future for sports education and innovation, leaving a positive impact on the lives of countless young talents.”
Dr Sunil Purohit is a distinguished Assistant Professor at the School of Sports Science, Central University Rajasthan, where he has made profound contributions to sports education. With an impressive 14-year tenure as the Former Junior Scientific Officer at the Sports Authority of India, Dr Purohit has played an instrumental role in shaping the sports landscape in the country.
Recognised for his outstanding achievements and unwavering commitment to sports science, Dr Purohit received the prestigious PODIUM International Scholarship, which allowed him to participate in the Pre-London Olympics ICSEMIS Conference, further enriching his expertise and global perspective.
Bharti Airtel Foundation Honored with Rajasthan Shiksha Bhushan Award 2024
Bharti Airtel Foundation has been honored recently with the prestigious ‘Rajasthan State Shiksha Bhushan Award 2024’ under Bhamashah Samman by the Government of Rajasthan. This recognition acknowledges the Foundation’s steadfast commitment and innovation strategies towards building educational excellence in the state through its programs, especially Quality Support Program (QSP). The 28th Bhamashah Samman 2024, a celebration of excellence and innovation, was held in the presence of Shri. Madan Dilawar, the Honorable Minister of School Education & Panchayati Raj Department, Government of Rajasthan, alongside other dignitaries from the state government. Mr. Sandeep Sarda, Regional Head at Bharti Airtel Foundation along with his team received the award on behalf of the organization.
Furthermore, Bharti Airtel Foundation is set to intensify its impact in Rajasthan following the recent recognition and renewal of its Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the State Project Director, Samagra Siksha Abhiyan. This renewed collaboration highlights the Foundation’s commitment to further elevating the educational landscape in the state. The Foundation plans to enhance the schooling experience by focusing on key areas such as improving teacher engagement and supporting school leadership. Specific initiatives include advancing co-scholastic activities, optimizing school processes, and strengthening stakeholder engagement.
By fostering deeper connections between schools, communities, and parents, the Foundation aims to create a more holistic and supportive education environment for the students. Its efforts, particularly through QSP, have been acknowledged since 2013 in Rajasthan, enriching the educational experience for over 35,000 students and more than 1,600 teachers across 125 government schools in Rajasthan. In Addition, this program has been completed in 173 Government schools in Rajasthan till now.