Voices of Academia

Discover inspiring stories, expert insights, and leadership journeys from top educators, scholars, and universities around the world at Voices of Academia.

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IIM Rohtak Director's Vision Shines at AGBA Congress 2025: A New Era of Academic Influence and Societal Impact

IIM Rohtak Director Prof. Dheeraj Sharma honored at AGBA 2025 for academic innovation, social impact, and global leadership in management education.

Introduction

At the 21st World Congress of the Academy of Global Business Advancement (AGBA), held in Bangkok from July 2–4, 2025, global academic discourse witnessed a transformative moment. Prof. Dheeraj Sharma, the Director of IIM Rohtak, was conferred the Distinguished Global Thought Leader Award 2025, highlighting his pioneering role in advancing management education, impactful research, and global academic engagement.

Leadership Beyond the Campus

A Scholar of Global Impact With over 250 published research papers and twelve authored books, Prof. Sharma has redefined the boundaries of business scholarship. His multidisciplinary approach blends strategic thinking with cultural insight and social relevance. At the AGBA Congress, he unveiled his newest book, "The Power of Movies," a study on cinema's role in shaping cultural norms, consumer behavior, and public discourse. The book’s immediate sell-out at the venue underscored its relevance and Prof. Sharma’s wide influence.

Keynote Highlights

Cinema, Psychology, and Societal Influence In his keynote address, Prof. Sharma explored the interplay between cinema and human identity through the psychological lens of the “actual self” versus the “ideal self.” He argued that movies construct aspirational identities, which in turn shape values, behaviors, and economic consumption patterns. His call for academic inquiry into the cultural economy of cinema resonated strongly with scholars, sparking further conversation about integrating popular culture into management research.

IIM Rohtak’s Global Call to Collaboration Prof. Sharma’s presence at AGBA also reflected IIM Rohtak’s rising stature in international academia. He extended an open invitation to global faculty to collaborate with IIM Rohtak as visiting professors, underlining the institute’s commitment to cross-border knowledge exchange and globally integrated education. This gesture further positioned IIM Rohtak as a hub for academic diversity, research excellence, and leadership development.

Insights from the Congress:

A Convergence of Global Thought Leaders The AGBA Congress hosted 275+ research papers from over 33 countries and 128 universities, with sessions featuring interdisciplinary ideas spanning AI in education, supply chain innovation, and ethical entrepreneurship. Thought leaders such as Kyle S. Wells (Utah Tech University) and Ha Minh Tri (International University, Vietnam) shared insights on fostering global collaboration. Prof. Sharma’s contribution stood out for its real-world relevance and academic depth, reflecting IIM Rohtak’s growing influence under his guidance.

Bridging Theory with Real-World Impact

What distinguishes Prof. Sharma’s academic journey is his commitment to bridging theory with practice. His psychological analysis of cinema’s effect on consumer behavior shows how scholars can influence business strategy and public policy. By highlighting how aspirational portrayals in movies fuel product demand, Prof. Sharma underscored the economic significance of cultural media—a field yet to be fully explored in mainstream management education.

Recognition and Strategic Growth at IIM Rohtak

This international recognition is part of a broader trend. Under Prof. Sharma’s leadership, IIM Rohtak has pioneered several firsts in India, including the Integrated Programme in Law (IPL) and achieving the highest female enrolment rate among IIMs. His directorship is marked by inclusivity, policy impact, and global vision. The institute is also expanding its infrastructure, with new initiatives including a Gurugram campus focused on executive education and research.

Conclusion: A Visionary Director Shaping Global Academia

Prof. Dheeraj Sharma’s recognition at AGBA 2025 reaffirms his status as a visionary academic leader. Through his scholarship, public engagement, and leadership at IIM Rohtak, he is reshaping management education to reflect societal needs, cultural realities, and global trends. His journey is a testament to the transformative power of education when guided by insight, innovation, and integrity.

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"College Is About Responsibility, Not Just Degrees": Delhi Education Minister at ARSD’s 66th Foundation Day

Atma Ram Sanatan Dharma (ARSD) College’s 66th Foundation Day turned into more than just a celebratory gathering when Delhi Education Minister Ashish Sood, an alumnus of the institution, urged students to rethink the purpose of higher education. Delivering a powerful address, Sood emphasized that college is not just for earning degrees, but for preparing for real-life responsibilities.

Returning to the campus where he studied commerce in the 1980s, Sood reflected on his student years and called his homecoming as Chief Guest a “deeply emotional moment.” Yet his speech looked firmly toward the future, centered on the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020.

“College years bring freedom—but what follows is responsibility,” Sood said. “Ask yourself: How will you contribute to your college, your society, your country?”

NEP 2020: A Generational Shift in Education Calling NEP 2020 a “generational shift”, the minister outlined how the policy aims to transform not just what students learn, but how they learn. He highlighted its features—from interdisciplinary learning and credit flexibility to skill-based training and internships—and stressed that the policy seeks to create thinkers, communicators, and innovators, not just exam-passers.

“We are no longer in a world where just having a degree is enough,” Sood said. “We need students who can think critically and act responsibly.”

Delhi’s Push for NEP Implementation The minister shared that Delhi has already begun implementing NEP at the grassroots level through pilot projects integrating internships into academic credits and the establishment of school-level skill labs. He also noted that mental health services are under review, as post-pandemic challenges continue to affect students.

Referencing ARSD’s founding values, Sood said ‘Sanatan Dharma’ stands for eternal truths and social responsibility, not just religion.

“When some talk of ending Sanatan, it is our duty to uphold and be the torchbearers of timeless values,” he said.

Policy Reform Beyond Campuses In a brief shift to broader education policy, Sood also spoke about an upcoming bill to regulate private school fees in Delhi. The legislation, set to be tabled in the Assembly tomorrow, aims to curb arbitrary fee hikes and mandates refund timelines, financial penalties, and structured oversight through a three-tier regulatory framework.

The bill proposes penalties ranging from ₹1 lakh to ₹10 lakh, with escalating consequences for repeated violations. While some parents have welcomed the bill’s intent, others call for more public dialogue before implementation.

A Call for Purpose-Driven Education For students in attendance, the minister’s emphasis on education as a vehicle for social responsibility struck a chord.

“Finally, someone’s talking about how we study—not just what we study,” said a second-year student. “We’re tired of the placement rat race. If NEP can help us discover our real interests, that’s real reform.”

Sood concluded his address by quoting Acharya Chanakya:

“A teacher is never ordinary; both destruction and creation lie in their lap.”

He thanked ARSD’s faculty for shaping minds since 1959 and reiterated that true reform lies in students becoming active participants in their education.

“If we get NEP right,” he said, “Delhi’s students won’t just pass exams, they’ll shape the future.”

As the event wrapped up, it was clear that the message was less about nostalgia and more about ownership. With NEP implementation and the private school fee regulation bill on the horizon, the coming weeks will reveal whether these reforms translate into meaningful change—or remain aspirational rhetoric for students facing real-world challenges.

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IIT Jammu, CSIR-IIIM, and Startups Forge Strategic MoU to Boost Innovation and Regional Development

In a significant step toward fostering regional innovation and entrepreneurship, the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Jammu has signed a tripartite Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the CSIR-Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine (CSIR-IIIM) and three emerging startups to accelerate translational research and drive economic growth in Jammu and surrounding regions.

The MoU was formalized by Prof. Manoj Singh Gaur, Director of IIT Jammu, and Dr. Zabeer Ahmed, Director of CSIR-IIIM Jammu, in the presence of senior faculty, researchers, and institutional leaders from both organizations.

A Collaborative Framework for Innovation This landmark partnership brings together CSIR-IIIM’s strengths in natural product discovery and drug development with IIT Jammu’s cutting-edge engineering and technological expertise, aiming to co-develop market-ready, impactful innovations.

The three startups joining this collaborative ecosystem are:

Biogreen Projects (represented by Songbaran Chatterjee)

Evlogia Eco Care (represented by Manigandan Kumarappan)

Crop Domain (represented by Mahadeva Swamy)

Each startup brings sectoral expertise in sustainable materials, environmental solutions, and agri-biotechnology.

Support for Startups and Local Talent The innovation ecosystem will be jointly supported by CSIR-IIIM’s TBI (Technology Business Incubator) and IIT Jammu’s I3C (Innovation, Incubation & Entrepreneurship Centre). These centres will offer:

Mentorship and technical guidance

Prototyping and R&D facilities

Investor engagement and funding support

Industry-oriented workshops and knowledge-sharing events

The initiative is also geared toward nurturing local talent and generating employment opportunities, with a focus on healthcare, sustainable technology, and agriculture-based innovation.

Leadership Perspective Prof. Gaur emphasized the strategic value of this collaboration:

“This tripartite alliance exemplifies IIT Jammu’s commitment to bridging cutting-edge research with societal impact. By combining our engineering strengths with CSIR-IIIM’s life-sciences expertise and the agility of startups, we can accelerate the development and commercialization of transformative solutions.”

The collaboration will be jointly governed by senior leadership from IIT Jammu and CSIR-IIIM, ensuring structured oversight and synergy between scientific research and real-world implementation.

This MoU positions Jammu as a growing hub of scientific innovation and entrepreneurial activity, strengthening the region’s role in India’s broader innovation-driven growth agenda.

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Nagaland University Launches Interdisciplinary MA in Language and Culture to Promote Indigenous Heritage

In a significant step toward promoting indigenous knowledge and heritage, Nagaland University has introduced a new interdisciplinary Master of Arts (MA) programme in Language and Culture. The programme is being offered by the Centre for Naga Tribal Language Studies, and classes for the inaugural batch will begin on August 5, 2025, with an initial intake of 20 students.

This unique MA programme aims to preserve, promote, and advance the linguistic and cultural heritage of the Naga people, offering students the opportunity to explore a broad academic spectrum rather than being restricted to a single discipline.

A Holistic, Cross-Disciplinary Approach Structured over four semesters, the curriculum integrates insights from multiple disciplines to provide a comprehensive understanding of language and culture. The programme moves beyond traditional academic silos, incorporating modern and indigenous perspectives to encourage critical thinking and interdisciplinary engagement.

According to the university, students will benefit from flexible coursework, enabling them to engage with content from diverse fields such as linguistics, anthropology, sociology, history, digital humanities, and more.

Broad Career Prospects Graduates will be well-equipped for traditional and emerging career paths including:

Academic Research & Teaching

Digital Language Archiving

Development Sector Roles

Cultural Consultancy

Language Planning & Policy

Indigenous Documentation Projects

Leadership Speak Prof. Jagadish Kumar Patnaik, Vice-Chancellor of Nagaland University, described the programme as “a milestone” for the institution.

“This is the first interdisciplinary master’s degree of its kind introduced by our university. It reflects our commitment to academic innovation, inclusivity, and the preservation of Naga linguistic and cultural heritage,” he said.

About Nagaland University Established under the Nagaland University Act, 1989, the university is the only Central University in the state and came into existence on September 6, 1994. As the 13th Central University in India, it has jurisdiction across the entire state and continues to play a pivotal role in advancing higher education and indigenous knowledge systems in Northeast India.

This new MA programme marks a significant stride in aligning education with cultural preservation and interdisciplinary learning, reinforcing Nagaland University’s position as a leader in inclusive and heritage-focused academics.

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IIM Raipur and Emeritus Launch 12-Month Online General Management Programme for Aspiring Business Leaders

In a move to strengthen leadership development in a digital-first economy, the Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Raipur, in collaboration with edtech platform Emeritus, has launched a 12-month online Advanced Certificate Programme in General Management. The programme is tailored for professionals seeking to enhance cross-functional expertise and digital transformation capabilities. The first cohort begins on September 30, 2025.

Programme Overview This executive education initiative targets early to mid-career professionals—including managers, functional heads, consultants, and entrepreneurs—who aspire to drive innovation, data-driven decision-making, and enterprise-level growth.

The curriculum is designed to build strategic and technology-integrated leadership skills across core business areas—strategy, operations, finance, marketing, and HR—while also covering emerging disciplines such as AI, generative AI, business analytics, digital transformation, and cloud computing.

Key Highlights Mode: Fully online, combining live sessions and recorded content

Duration: 12 months

Faculty-led sessions: 10+ live sessions by IIM Raipur faculty

Industry Masterclasses: 6 sessions by domain experts

Optional on-campus immersion: Networking opportunity at IIM Raipur

Fee: ₹1,45,000 + GST

Eligibility: Graduates (10+2+3) from UGC/AICTE/AIU/DEC approved or equivalent international institutions

Upon successful completion, participants will earn a certificate from IIM Raipur, gain alumni status, and receive career support such as resume building, interview preparation, and access to IIMJobs Pro membership.

Institutional Credentials IIM Raipur is currently ranked 14th in the NIRF 2024 Management Category and is a member of the AACSB Business Education Alliance. The launch aligns with global executive education trends, reflecting insights from the EY CEO Outlook Pulse Survey 2025, which revealed that 88% of Indian CEOs prioritise workforce upskilling to future-proof their organisations.

This initiative further cements IIM Raipur’s commitment to preparing professionals for leadership roles in today’s digitally transforming and AI-powered business landscape.

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SRCC Placements 2024–25: Rs 36 Lakh Highest Package, 19% Growth in Offers; Surge in Internships and Recruiter Interest

Shri Ram College of Commerce (SRCC), University of Delhi, has wrapped up a robust placement season for the academic year 2024–25, witnessing a 19% increase in total placement offers compared to the previous cycle. The Placement Cell announced that over 520 offers were extended to students, with the cumulative value of these offers reaching Rs 51.5 crore.

The highest annual package secured by a student this year touched Rs 36 lakh, while the hiring drive covered more than 15 key sectors, including consulting, finance, investment banking, private equity, and e-commerce.

Top global and domestic firms such as McKinsey & Company, Bain & Company, Boston Consulting Group, Blackstone, DE Shaw, Nomura, Deutsche Bank, FTI Consulting, Accenture Strategy, AB InBev, Kepler Cannon, and Meesho participated in the recruitment drive, offering roles across strategy, analytics, business development, and financial services.

Rise in Internship Opportunities SRCC also recorded a significant uptick in internship offers. Over 120 internships were secured by students during the placement season, with a combined internship value of Rs 57.2 lakh. The highest monthly stipend offered was Rs 2.2 lakh, and the average stipend rose by 12.5% from the previous year.

SRCC Maintains Top Admission Status SRCC continues to stand as one of Delhi University’s premier institutions, both in terms of placements and admissions. In the first round of CUET-based seat allocation for the 2025–26 academic year, SRCC was once again a top preference among commerce aspirants nationwide. Alongside St. Stephen’s College and Hindu College, SRCC recorded among the highest cut-offs, maintaining its elite academic standing.

Meanwhile, Hindu College topped the cut-offs in the BA (Hons) Political Science category with 950.58/1000 for the General category. Other leading humanities programmes also recorded exceptionally high cut-offs, including:

BA Programme (History + Political Science) at Hindu College: 936.18

English (Hons) at St. Stephen’s College: 926.93

Psychology (Hons) at Lady Shri Ram College: 926.53

Political Science (Hons) at Miranda House: 925.98

SRCC’s latest placement outcomes reinforce its stature as a top-tier institution blending academic excellence with industry readiness.

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Dheeraj Sharma Honored as Global Thought Leader at AGBA 2025 Congress in Bangkok

IIM Rohtak Director Prof. Dheeraj Sharma was conferred the Distinguished Global Thought Leader Award 2025 at the prestigious 21st World Congress of the Academy of Global Business Advancement (AGBA), held from July 2–4, 2025, in Bangkok, Thailand. This global recognition acknowledges Prof. Dheeraj Sharma's exceptional contributions to management education, research excellence, and thought leadership on a worldwide scale.

Prof. Dheeraj Sharma Launches New Book ‘The Power of Movies’ In a key highlight of the AGBA Congress, Prof. Dheeraj Sharma officially launched his much-anticipated book titled “The Power of Movies”, which explores the psychological, cultural, and behavioral influence of cinema on society. The book resonated strongly with the academic community, as all available copies were sold out at the event, with participants eager to acquire signed editions.

According to Prof. Sharma, movies are more than just entertainment—they are powerful cultural instruments that shape public discourse, influence values, and mold societal behavior. In his keynote address, Prof. Dheeraj Sharma said, “Cinema reflects the soul of a society. It educates, inspires, and transforms. We must critically examine its role in shaping the ‘ideal self’ that drives billions in consumer behavior.”

He elaborated on the marketing implications of cinematic influence, noting that movies help form an "ideal self" that influences buying decisions worth billions. “Understanding the science behind this psychological bridge between the ‘actual self’ and the ‘ideal self’ is essential for scholars, policymakers, and marketers alike,” he emphasized.

Global Acclaim for Prof. Dheeraj Sharma at AGBA The AGBA 2025 Congress featured over 275 research presentations from scholars representing 33+ countries and 128+ universities. Experts discussed a diverse range of topics, from international business and strategic management to AI integration and sustainable development.

Among the distinguished speakers were global academicians such as Kyle S. Wells (President, Utah Tech University), Viput Ongaskul (Former Dean, National Institute of Development Administration, Thailand), and Prof. Hermann Lassleben from Germany.

However, it was Dheeraj Sharma’s keynote that left a lasting impression, combining academic rigor with societal relevance. His address was praised for connecting the dots between pop culture and policy, and for reinforcing the importance of interdisciplinary thinking in modern management.

Dheeraj Sharma’s Vision for Global Academic Collaboration During the conference, Prof. Dheeraj Sharma extended a heartfelt invitation to international scholars to engage with IIM Rohtak, one of India’s leading business schools. He invited global educators to contribute as visiting faculty, helping cultivate the next generation of globally-aware and socially-conscious business leaders.

Why Dheeraj Sharma Continues to Inspire the Academic World With over 250 published research articles and a dozen authored books, Prof. Dheeraj Sharma has firmly established himself as one of India’s most respected voices in business academia. His work bridges theory and practice, culture and commerce, and local insight with global relevance.

As IIM Rohtak Director, Dheeraj Sharma continues to drive innovation in management education, promote interdisciplinary research, and encourage international partnerships. His leadership is not only transforming IIM Rohtak but also contributing significantly to the global academic landscape.

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IIT Bombay Offers Extensive Scholarships and Financial Aid for UG and PG Students Amid Ongoing JoSAA 2025 Counselling

As Round 4 of the JoSAA 2025 counselling concludes and prospective students prepare for the next phase of admissions, the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Bombay has highlighted a comprehensive suite of scholarships and financial aid aimed at easing the financial burden for both undergraduate and postgraduate students.

With Round 4 seat allotment results announced on July 6 and online reporting open until July 9, shortlisted candidates are in the process of confirming their admission. As they do, many are also exploring financial support opportunities offered by one of India’s top engineering institutions.

Undergraduate (UG) Scholarships and Support

Institute Merit-cum-Means (MCM) Scholarship This flagship scholarship supports economically disadvantaged UG students. It provides:

Tuition fee waiver

Monthly stipend

Eligibility: Based on parental income and academic performance

Free Messing for SC/ST Students Eligible SC/ST students are exempted from mess charges and receive a monthly pocket allowance, provided they meet academic criteria.

Fee Remission Students from economically weaker families can avail partial or full tuition fee waivers, depending on income thresholds.

Named Scholarships Endowment-based scholarships funded by alumni and private donors, with criteria based on academic excellence, financial need, or departmental affiliation.

Government Scholarships Students may also apply for central/state schemes like:

National Talent Search Examination (NTSE) Scholarship

State Government Scholarships (These require independent applications via government portals.)

Postgraduate (PG) Financial Aid and Scholarships

Teaching & Research Assistantships Available for students in MTech, MDes, MS by Research, and MPP programmes:

Monthly stipend

Academic/research duties (8–20 hours/week)

Governed by AICTE/UGC guidelines

Special assistantships include:

QIP (Quality Improvement Programme)

CSIR/UGC Fellowships

PMRF (Prime Minister’s Research Fellowship)

Updated assistantships for MS by Research and MA Res students

MSc Scholarships Eligible MSc students can receive the MCM scholarship and other institute-funded financial support. SC/ST students are also eligible for Free Messing and allowances.

Dual Degree Support (BTech + MTech / BDes + MDes) During the 5th year, these students are considered PG students and can avail Teaching Assistantships, similar to standalone PG programmes.

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IIT Delhi Launches Online Executive Programme on AI in Healthcare

The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Delhi has introduced a new online executive programme focused on the application of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in healthcare, in collaboration with TeamLease EdTech. Aimed at working professionals across medicine, data science, engineering, and healthcare entrepreneurship, the course will begin on November 1, 2025, with admissions open until July 31, 2025.

This six-month weekend-only programme is designed to help participants understand how AI can revolutionize patient care, diagnostics, hospital management, and public health systems. No prior experience in AI or coding is required to enroll.

Programme Overview

Duration: November 1, 2025 – May 2, 2026

Mode: 100% Online (Weekend sessions)

Fees: ₹1,20,000 + 18% GST (Payable in two installments)

Application Deadline: July 31, 2025

Programme Type: eVIDYA – Executive Learning

Key Learning Modules:

Introduction to AI, Machine Learning & Deep Learning

Healthcare and Clinical Big Data Analytics

Predictive Modeling and Automation in Healthcare

Population Health and Public Health Analytics

10+ Real-World Case Studies

Hands-on Projects Using Real Clinical Data (EMRs, Imaging, Genomics, IoT)

Capstone Project under Mentorship of Experts from IIT Delhi and AIIMS

Industry Roundtables and Networking

What Participants Will Gain:

Practical skills to implement AI in diagnostics and treatment

Familiarity with standards like FHIR and DICOM

Real-world problem-solving experience using AI

Guidance from leading academicians and industry experts

The programme offers a unique blend of academic rigor and industry relevance, helping professionals stay ahead in the rapidly evolving med-tech landscape.

Interested candidates can apply through the official IIT Delhi Continuing Education Programme (CEP) portal.

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Harvard Warns International Students to Avoid Boston Logan Airport Amid Increased U.S. Border Scrutiny

Harvard University has issued a cautionary advisory to its international students, urging them to limit sensitive social media activity and avoid entering the U.S. through Boston’s Logan International Airport due to intensified border checks and visa screenings, according to a recent Bloomberg report.

The advisory follows ongoing concerns about how federal agencies are monitoring international students entering the country. In a private briefing hosted by Harvard officials, students were informed that both the U.S. State Department and Customs and Border Protection (CBP) are closely examining digital footprints—including social media content and electronic devices—at entry points.

Digital Devices & Social Media Under Scrutiny

Officials told students that immigration authorities have the power to inspect their phones, laptops, and online presence. Content flagged as problematic—including political views critical of the U.S., pro-Palestinian posts, antisemitic comments, or even minor past legal issues—could result in denial of entry.

Students were also warned against wiping their devices before travel, as this could raise additional suspicion. The session was led by Maureen Martin, Director of Immigration Services at Harvard, and Jason Corral, an attorney with the university’s immigration and refugee clinic.

Special Advisory for Iranian and Chinese Students in STEM Fields

Particular caution was advised for students from Iran and China, especially those enrolled in science, technology, engineering, mathematics (STEM), and artificial intelligence (AI) programs. According to the university, these groups face a higher likelihood of extra scrutiny at U.S. borders.

Corral specifically recommended that Iranian students avoid flying into Boston Logan due to previous incidents. While not officially ranked, other international airports like New York’s JFK, Chicago O’Hare, and LAX were suggested as potentially safer alternatives.

Previous Incident Highlights Risks

The warning comes in the wake of a high-profile case involving Kseniia Petrova, a Russian researcher affiliated with Harvard, who was detained at Boston Logan in February after returning from France. She was accused of illegally transporting frog embryos and spent four months in federal custody before being released on bail in June.

Harvard–Federal Government Tensions Ongoing

The advisory reflects broader tensions between Harvard and the U.S. government. The Trump administration has previously targeted the university, revoking over $2.6 billion in research funding and threatening its tax-exempt status. Allegations have ranged from the tolerance of antisemitism to claims of political and hiring biases.

While it remains unclear if Harvard students are being uniquely targeted, the federal government is currently appealing a preliminary injunction that temporarily protects the university’s ability to admit international students.

For now, Harvard is urging its international community to stay informed, cautious, and prepared as border protocols continue to evolve.

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IIM Kashipur Launches New Sustainability Programme in Tie-Up with evACAD

The Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Kashipur has partnered with Nagpur-based pManifold EV Academy Pvt Ltd (evACAD) to launch a new executive education initiative aimed at promoting sustainability and clean energy leadership.

The collaboration, formalized through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), introduces the Post Graduate Executive Certificate Programme in Net Zero Strategy and Sustainability Leadership. This programme is tailored for working professionals in sectors like energy, oil & gas, engineering, consulting, corporate finance, and sustainability who aim to lead the transition towards cleaner, greener practices across industries and public sectors.

The course will focus on critical themes such as climate systems, decarbonization, carbon markets, green finance, and sustainable business models. It is structured around the core pillars of People, Planet, and Profit, combining case-based learning, teamwork, and leadership development to equip participants for high-impact roles in sustainability-driven initiatives.

Participants will also gain insights into climate risk, circular economy, ecosystem thinking, and innovative financing models for sustainable projects.

The MoU was signed by Prof. Kunal Ganguly, Dean (Development), IIM Kashipur, and Rahul Bagdia, CMD of evACAD, in the presence of faculty members including Prof. Vaibhav Bhamoriya.

In parallel, IIM Kashipur has officially kicked off its 2025–27 academic session, welcoming 433 students across its MBA, MBA (Analytics), and PhD programmes. The induction programme took place from June 23 to 26, followed by the inaugural session on June 27.

This year's batch includes 265 students in the MBA programme, 157 in MBA (Analytics), and 11 PhD scholars, with students coming from diverse academic backgrounds such as arts, commerce, science, and engineering. Many also bring professional experience, adding depth to the learning environment.

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Kashmir Schools Reopen Today After Summer Break Amid Controversy Over Online Classes

Schools across Kashmir resumed classes today following a 15-day summer vacation that lasted from June 23 to July 7. However, the reopening has been accompanied by growing public criticism of the government’s recent directive mandating online classes after regular school hours.

As per the new order issued by the Jammu and Kashmir School Education Department (SED), school timings have been revised with effect from July 8. Schools within municipal areas will operate from 7:30 am to 11:30 am, while those outside municipal limits (rural areas) will function from 8:00 am to 12:00 pm.

In addition to these adjusted hours, the SED has made online classes compulsory for students of Classes 6 to 12. For municipal areas, online sessions will be held from 12:30 pm to 2:00 pm, and from 1:00 pm to 2:30 pm in non-municipal regions. Primary classes (1st to 5th) are exempted from online lessons.

The decision has sparked a backlash from school administrators, parents, and civil society members, who argue that the move places unnecessary strain on children and families.

“There’s no logic in holding online classes after students have already attended school for four hours,” said Aijaz Ahmad Masoodi, a private school owner from Sopore. “Key subjects can easily be covered during school hours, and additional topics can wait until full-day classes resume.”

Parents, particularly from rural and working-class backgrounds, expressed concern over children’s increased screen time and lack of access to digital devices. “Expecting rural kids to attend online classes is unrealistic,” said Gousia, a parent from Baramulla. “Most working parents are not home to supervise, and many families don’t even have smartphones available during the day.”

Many parents and educators have instead suggested a modest extension to school hours as a more practical solution. “Extending classes by half an hour would be more effective and safer than asking children to sit in front of screens again at home,” said another parent.

In response to the outcry, Education Minister Sakina Itoo acknowledged the concerns and said the government would monitor the situation. “The current plan is not final. We are open to changes based on weather and feasibility,” she told Greater Kashmir. However, she stressed that the intent behind the decision is to ensure syllabus completion ahead of the annual examinations scheduled for October.

“While schools must conduct physical classes for compulsory subjects, the online mode is meant for additional subjects. Given our experience with school closures during crises, this blended approach ensures continuity in learning,” she added.

Despite the flexibility offered for future adjustments, the minister confirmed that teachers are required to stay in schools until 2:00 pm to facilitate the online classes before heading home.

As the school year resumes under these new norms, the coming days will likely determine whether the government modifies its strategy in response to the widespread concerns.