Results for: Higher Education

The Kalinga Institute of Industrial Technology (KIIT) has commenced phase 2 counselling for the KIIT Entrance Exam (KIITEE) 2024. Eligible candidates can register and fill in their preferences for counselling on the official website, kiitee.kiit.ac.in. The deadline for phase 2 counselling registration and choice filling is June 20. The counselling process involves various steps, including choice filling, provisional allotment, fee payment, and final assignment to branches or departments. Candidates must submit necessary documents like Class 10 certificate, Class 12 mark sheet, and KIITEE rank card. Admissions will be based on KIITEE scores, except for medical and dental programs. Candidates are advised to visit the KIIT website regularly for updates on the counselling schedule.

A recent report reveals that over 8,000 IIT graduates have not secured jobs through campus placements this year. This marks a significant increase from previous years, with the number of unplaced students nearly doubling compared to 2023. The report highlights the challenges faced by IIT graduates in securing employment, particularly in the current economic climate.

Utah Republican Rep. Burgess Owens engaged in a heated exchange with Northwestern University President Michael Schill during a House hearing, questioning the university’s acceptance of donations from Qatar and its handling of campus antisemitism. Owens raised concerns about Qatar’s support for Hamas and Iranian operatives, while Schill defended the school’s partnership with Al Jazeera. The hearing also addressed the university’s response to protests and demands for divestment from Israel, with Schill facing criticism for not answering questions directly and maintaining that he would not tolerate antisemitism on campus.

Amidst legal challenges and mounting political pressure, an increasing number of higher education institutions are dismantling their diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs. In the wake of the Supreme Court’s affirmative action decision and state legislation, universities have been re-examining the efficacy of their DEI initiatives. Despite the removal of DEI programs, some observers believe that proxy initiatives are emerging to evade accountability and continue promoting DEI principles under different guises, such as ‘belonging’ and ‘culturally responsive teaching.’ Critics argue that these programs lack evidence of effectiveness and create a cycle of self-preservation that hinders progress in addressing campus climate issues.

IT industry stalwarts N R Narayana Murthy and Kris Gopalakrishnan have expressed their hopes for the upcoming government to foster an environment conducive to wealth creation and innovation. They advocate for ‘compassionate capitalism’ and ample opportunities for ethical entrepreneurs to drive economic growth. Additionally, they emphasize the need for increased investment in research and higher education institutions, suggesting that alumni should contribute more to their alma maters.

Indian universities have faced challenges in global competition, according to a report by the Center for World University Rankings (CWUR). Despite this, Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Ahmedabad has secured the top rank among Indian institutions, with 64 others making it to the CWUR’s Global 2000 list for 2024. However, India’s increase in research output has not translated to comparable success in higher education. Indian institutions saw mixed results in the rankings, with some improving their positions and others declining.

A concerning trend has emerged in Bhubaneswar, where 39 subjects offered by 35 colleges have reported zero admissions for the 2023-24 academic session. Subjects such as mathematics and English top the list, indicating a lack of interest among students. Colleges from eight districts are affected, with Cuttack reporting the highest number of subjects with zero admissions. The lack of trained teachers, inadequate infrastructure, and students’ fear of low marks in certain subjects are cited as reasons for this decline. Some colleges are facing closure due to the persistent issue of zero admissions.

The Migration Advisory Committee (MAC) is set to release its review of post-study work (PSW) visas on May 14, and there are speculations that the sought-after visa, which allows international students in the UK to work across sectors for two years, may be discontinued. The PSW visa is a major incentive for Indian students pursuing higher education in the UK, and its axing could have far-reaching consequences. This is part of the UK government’s broader plan to reduce immigration, which has also seen the phasing out of dependent visas for students and restrictions on migrant care workers bringing their families to the country.

Responding to the escalating anti-Israel demonstrations on college campuses, Republican Senator JD Vance has proposed the Encampments or Endowments Act. This legislation would render universities ineligible for federal monetary assistance if they fail to promptly remove protest encampments like those erected during anti-Israel demonstrations. It aims to force colleges to protect students, shut down encampments, and comply with the law, with penalties including potential ineligibility for Title IV programs and a tax of up to 50% of endowment assets for non-compliance.

The Higher Education Department in Odisha has initiated an investigation to identify degree colleges that have consistently recorded zero admissions in certain subjects. This move aims to address concerns regarding the quality and sustainability of higher education in the state. Regional Directorates of Education (RDEs) in Bhubaneswar and Sambalpur have issued notices to government and private colleges reporting zero admissions, seeking explanations and comprehensive reports within seven days.