Columbia University has implemented a temporary shift to virtual learning for all classes on its Morningside campus until the end of the spring 2024 semester. This decision was made due to ongoing safety concerns stemming from anti-Israel protests on the New York City campus. The university administration stated that safety is their highest priority and that virtual learning options will be provided to support students’ needs. Faculty and staff who can work remotely are also advised to do so.
Pedro Rentas’ journey from a TikTok cooking sensation to a college graduate is a testament to the success of MassReconnect, a program that provides free community college tuition to Massachusetts residents over 25. The program saw a 44.8% increase in new students over 25 in the past year, with larger increases among Black, Hispanic, and male students. While retention remains a challenge, community colleges such as Northern Essex and Middlesex are committed to providing support and advising to keep students on track to graduation.
India has topped the QS University rankings among G20 nations for the academic year 2023-24. Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised the government’s focus on research, learning, and innovation as a key factor in this achievement. QS University Rankings President Nunzio Quacquarelli highlighted India’s 14% improvement in average ranking and praised PM Modi’s leadership and visionary policies, including the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. Indian universities saw significant progress in Biological Sciences, Business Studies, and STEM subjects, with the NEP being recognized as a driving force behind these positive changes.
Patriots owner Robert Kraft has called on his alma mater, Columbia University, to take action against anti-Israel sentiment and a pro-Palestinian encampment on campus. Kraft expressed deep sadness over the spread of “virulent hate” and said he was no longer confident in the university’s ability to protect its community. He urged Columbia to end the protests and regain the trust of those who have lost faith in the institution.
Dr. Naima Khatoon has made history as the first woman to be appointed Vice Chancellor of Aligarh Muslim University (AMU). Her appointment breaks a century-long tradition of male leadership at the prestigious institution.
Awareness sessions were conducted under the ‘En Kalloori Kanavu’ initiative to encourage higher education among Dalit and tribal students in Nagapattinam. Students received career counseling, information on education loans, and employment opportunities. The initiative aims to reach all blocks in the district upon receiving further instructions. The event was chaired by District Collector Johny Tom Varghese, with presentations by advocate M. Ganapathi and Professor N. Gopi.
Academics with disabilities face significant challenges in South African universities, including inaccessible physical environments and difficulty conducting research. The government’s policy on disability in higher education is insufficient and doesn’t consider different categories of disabilities. Universities need to make a total overhaul of their environments to make them genuinely inclusive for everyone, including academics with disabilities.
Ohio’s seven state universities have paused their race-conscious scholarship programs due to concerns about legality in light of a recent Supreme Court decision. Attorney General Dave Yost advised that using race as a factor in scholarship awards may be unconstitutional. This follows a nationwide trend, with several other states and universities eliminating race considerations from scholarships and financial aid. The Supreme Court’s June 2023 decision in Students for Fair Admissions v. Harvard banned the use of race in admissions, except under limited conditions. The ruling also highlighted strict scrutiny standards for programs affecting fundamental rights, such as education. Campus leaders are considering factors like socioeconomic status and academic achievements as alternatives to race in admissions and financial aid decisions. However, legal scholars debate whether the ruling extends beyond admissions to scholarship programs. Some argue that universities can still consider race under strict scrutiny and with a compelling state interest in diversity. Students are advised to stay informed and consider criteria such as income and civic engagement in their scholarship applications.
