Latest news with #NPTEL
Time of India
3 days ago
- Time of India
Thinking of taking a gap year? Here's how students can make it count
In a world calibrated to the rhythm of entrance exams, placement rounds, and constant career preparation, the idea of pressing pause might sound like rebellion. But for a growing number of students in India and across the globe, a gap year is not a detour; it's a recalibration. If you're standing at the crossroads after school or college, wondering whether to jump into the next academic sprint or take a strategic breather, a gap year might be worth your consideration. The catch? It's only as valuable as you make it. Why are more students taking a gap year in 2025? The post-pandemic academic landscape has normalised flexible education paths. With international universities like the University of Oxford, Harvard University, and Stanford University acknowledging and even encouraging gap years, Indian students too are warming up to the idea. Undergraduate aspirants globally are now considering gap years, citing reasons ranging from mental health and skill development to travel and internships. A surge in students choosing structured gap years after Class 12 or undergraduate degrees, especially those aiming for competitive exams, study abroad plans, or startup exploration is also visible. But before you hop on a plane with a backpack or start making vision boards, let's break down how to make your gap year meaningful and future-ready. Begin with a plan While the term 'gap' may sound like freefalling into nothingness, universities and employers are increasingly looking for structured intent. Start with a basic framework: What do you want to explore? What outcomes do you expect? For example, if you want to switch streams, use this time to build foundational knowledge. If you're considering studying abroad, focus on language proficiency, standardised tests, and volunteering experiences that boost your Statement of Purpose (SOP). It is also important to have a backup plan because that coding bootcamp may get cancelled or your internship may fall through. Have two to three alternatives that align with your larger goal. Upskill 2025 is a great year for digital learning. Platforms like Coursera, edX, Google Grow with Google, and even the National Programme on Technology Enhanced Learning (NPTEL) offer industry-recognised certifications. From artificial intelligence and blockchain to climate policy and digital marketing, pick something that complements your long-term academic or career goals. Want to be a journalist? Learn data visualisation. Thinking of design school? Explore UX design courses. Planning to become an entrepreneur? Financial literacy and Excel basics will help more than you realise. Try different internships You don't need to be a full-time employee to get industry exposure. Short-term virtual or in-person internships can give you the vocabulary and confidence you need for your next chapter. In India, various platforms offer student-specific roles in startups, think tanks, content firms, and NGOs. Try different domains if you're undecided. You might discover that you like product marketing more than advertising, or edtech more than finance. The only rule: Pick something where you're not just observing but doing. Try volunteering Gap years give students the flexibility to support causes they care about, free from the constraints of academic calendars. You could volunteer with local NGOs, or explore structured global opportunities through programs like AIESEC or the United Nations Youth Volunteer initiative. Not only does this build empathy and organisational skills, but it also adds credibility to your college application or CV, especially for liberal arts, social work, and international relations pathways. Travel smart While Eurotrips may dominate social media feeds, purposeful travel doesn't have to involve international flights. Explore your own state or country through heritage walks, language immersions, and community stays. Trekking in Himachal, learning Urdu in Lucknow, or assisting in wildlife conservation in Assam could be as enriching as a foreign internship if you reflect on it right. Consider journaling your experiences or creating a portfolio if you're inclined towards writing, film, or design. It could double as supplementary material for college admissions. Prepare for competitive exams Many students use the gap year to prepare for exams like the Common Admission Test (CAT), Graduate Record Examination (GRE), Union Public Service Commission (UPSC), or law entrances. A year off can provide the calm needed for long-hour study routines, mock tests, and coaching classes. However, it's crucial to maintain balance. Add physical activity, mental wellness routines, and hobbies into your timetable. A burnt-out topper doesn't outperform a focused, well-rested peer. Build a project Have a niche interest? A gap year is your chance to turn it into a project. Launch a podcast, build a YouTube channel, create an application, write a blog, or organise a student-led event. Even a three-month micro-project demonstrates initiative and self-direction — two qualities universities and employers respect. Reflect and document Whether it's a bullet journal, or a vlog, keep a record of what you're learning, unlearning, and rethinking. These reflections will help when you write your SOP, face interviews, or simply look back at your year and connect the dots. Remember, growth isn't always linear. Small things like learning to network, handling rejections, discovering what does not interest you are just as crucial as the big wins. A well-used gap year can give you direction, maturity, and a stronger narrative when you return to formal education or step into the job market. The key lies in treating it as a structured opportunity, not an indefinite vacation. If planned with intention and honesty, this 'gap' might just be your biggest leap. And if you're unsure where to start, start small. One course, one internship, or one conversation can set off a chain of discoveries. Just keep moving with purpose. TOI Education is on WhatsApp now. Follow us here . Ready to navigate global policies? Secure your overseas future. Get expert guidance now!
Hans India
01-07-2025
- Science
- Hans India
Twin National Honours for Faculty Excellence and Research Leadership
Salem :In a major recognition of its academic and research excellence, Sona College of Technology, Salem, has secured two prestigious India-wide distinctions: achieving the top faculty performance ranking in the National Programme on Technology Enhanced Learning (NPTEL) among over 7,000 colleges during the January–May 2025 cycle., and its renewed certification as a Scientific and Industrial Research Organization (SIRO) by the Department of Scientific and Industrial Research (DSIR), Government of India. These accolades reinforce the NAAC A++ accredited (with a CGPA of 3.65) Sona College's consistent commitment to quality education. NPTEL, India's largest technical e-learning platform, is jointly managed by the IITs and IISc to enhance faculty development through online courses and certifications delivered via the SWAYAM platform. Sona College has been awarded the First Position in Faculty Performance Rating for the sixth time, having consistently ranked among the Top 3 colleges in NPTEL faculty performance since the inception of this award category. The college earned the NPTEL Local Chapter Star (LC STAR) status for the second time, in recognition of its consistent performance in examinations and for ranking within the national Top 100 since 2017. Mr Chocko Valliappa, Vice-Chairman of Sona College of Technology, recognised faculty members for their outstanding NPTEL performance. 'We are proud to reward our faculty who have propelled Sona to the top national rank in NPTEL. Their dedication ensures our students receive world-class education,' he said. 'Sona College's commitment to academic excellence is deeply rooted in faculty development through NPTEL and innovation-led research across our 36 R&D centres, aligning with national priorities for self-reliance,' said Prof Dr SRR Senthilkumar, Principal. The SIRO certification enables institutions to undertake scientific and industrial research that promotes indigenous technology development, fosters self-reliance, and minimises reliance on foreign inputs. This is the fourth SIRO recertification for Sona College since 2016, highlighting its sustained focus on innovation through its 36 active R&D centres, including SonaSPEED, which contributed to ISRO's Chandrayaan-3 and Gaganyaan missions. In the three years starting 2020 Sona College was granted 44 patents out of 423 patent filings and 324 published patents. Sona College continues to be ranked among India's premier private engineering institutions. For the academic year 2023–24, it has been placed among the Top 7 private engineering colleges in Tamil Nadu and the Top 50 nationally, according to independent research studies. For more details, please visit: ###
Time of India
07-06-2025
- Business
- Time of India
Andhra University introduces major administrative & academic reforms
Visakhapatnam: Andhra University has decided to introduce several structural changes aimed at strengthening academic and administrative efficiency. A new dean for faculty affairs has been appointed to address matters and issues related to teaching staff. Similarly, the university has created the dean of alumni relations post for the first time to foster strong connections between alumni and their alma mater. To enhance the university's reputation through academic initiatives and collaborations with industry and govt, a new position, namely dean of outreach, has been introduced. A professor-in-charge has been appointed to oversee courses such as NPTEL, SWAYAM, and MOOCs. Furthermore, a professor-in-charge for university branding and media affairs, along with the IQAC coordinator, will operate in alignment under the purview of the dean of outreach as part of a newly designed structure. A chief coordinator has been appointed for the spot valuation section to reinforce the integrity of the examination system. The roles of the director of admissions and the centre for distance and open learning have now been consolidated under a single new director, who has been entrusted with full responsibility for both domains. In prioritising student welfare, a new dean of student welfare has been appointed. Under this division, the NCC, NSS, and the department of arts have been integrated. A separate dean position has been established to coordinate infrastructure, planning, and management. This division will oversee essential services including civil, electrical, transport, and security operations, and will be responsible for infrastructure development. To further strengthen the research and development division, it has now been integrated under the purview of a dean. The projects and intellectual property rights (IPR) sections have also been brought under this domain, with an in-charge appointed to oversee their functioning. Vice-chancellor Prof GP Rajasekhar said that these institutional changes have been introduced to enhance transparency, accountability, and the efficiency of services at Andhra University. "As part of this, there was a complete restructuring of deans and directors related to the administration. New positions have been created, including dean of faculty affairs, dean of outreach, dean of alumni relations, dean of infrastructure, planning and management, and chief coordinator of spot valuation. Furthermore, several measures are being taken to strengthen the examination evaluation system. It is important to connect the century-old university with its alumni, recognising and honouring their contributions. In this direction, several institutional reforms are being introduced in the university's administration," the V-C added.
New Indian Express
25-05-2025
- Health
- New Indian Express
No end to curiosity: 72-year-old doctor masters IIT courses
RAJAMAHENDRAVARAM: Age is no barrier to learning, and veteran psychiatrist Dr Karri Ramareddy has proved it. At 72, when most people look take retirement, he continues to pursue academic excellence. He has earned 61 degrees, including three PhDs and 11 certifications through the National Programme on Technology Enhanced Learning (NPTEL), offered by premier institutions such as IIT Mumbai and IIT Kharagpur. He has topped eight of the NPTEL courses among thousands of learners across the country, securing Elite Plus Silver or Gold grades in each, which is his latest achievement. Born in Rajamahendravaram, on August 1, 1954, and raised in the small town of Anaparthi in East Godavari district, his journey has been one of relentless learning. He completed his early education at the Government Zilla Parishad High School in Anaparthi, his PUC at PR College in Kakinada, and his MBBS at Rangaraya Medical College in 1970. He later joined the National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences (NIMHANS), Bengaluru, where he completed his MD in Psychiatry.
Hans India
21-05-2025
- Health
- Hans India
Dr Rama Reddy earns 11 more degrees, takes tally to 61
Rajamahendravaram: Renowned psychiatrist and Dr BC Roy Award recipient Dr Karri Rama Reddy has added 11 more degrees to his name, taking his total academic achievements to a remarkable 61. Addressing the media at Manasa Hospital here on Tuesday, Dr Rama Reddy shared that the latest 11 courses were completed through NPTEL (National Programme on Technology Enhanced Learning) between January and June this year. He said most of these courses were passed with 'Elite Plus Silver' and 'Elite Plus Gold' grades (Distinction equivalent), awarded for scoring above 90%. He stated that he ranked among the top in eight of the 11 courses. In the previous semester, he topped six courses, which earned him the prestigious NPTEL 'Mega Star' recognition, a feat he has now achieved again. He said that these are not honorary degrees or fellowships and he earned each of them by studying and appearing for examinations. His academic journey includes three doctorates, five LLMs, MBA, MCA, MTech, MA, MCom, and more. Dr Rama Reddy, who is in his 70s, said he completes two to three degrees every year till 2024 and, afterward, plans to take up certificate courses as well. He said that he enjoys the process of education and he believes age should never be a barrier to learning. GSL Medical College Chairman Dr Ganni Bhaskar Rao praised Dr Rama Reddy's commitment, stating that earning 61 degrees at the age of 70 is extraordinary and deserving of national recognition, such as the Padma Shri award. RSS State leader Oleti Satyanarayana opined that Dr Rama Reddy, while serving as a district Sanghchalak in RSS and continuing his medical practice, has achieved this rare academic feat. IMA City Chapter Secretary Dr Datla Satish and social worker PVS Krishnarao also lauded Dr Rama Reddy's achievements during the event.
