Zamit’s skilling drive
New Delhi, August 13. The India subsidiary of the UK-based Zamit, an edtech platform, claims to have empowered 59,000 students and 1,333 educators in India through its innovative e-learning solutions focused on skills development.
According to a company statement, Zamit Quotient (ZQ), an AI-driven tool that assesses 60 future-readiness skills across nine dimensions, is currently being used in 209 schools, impacts 1,753 students, and “provides a comprehensive measure of a student’s preparedness for the challenges of the 21st century.”
“Our goal is not only to equip students with the essential skills they need to thrive in an increasingly complex and dynamic world but also to empower educators with the tools and insights required to foster a nurturing and innovative learning environment. By combining cutting-edge technology with a deep understanding of educational needs, we are creating opportunities for learners to unlock their full potential and for educators to elevate their teaching practices to new heights,” says Abhijeet Mukherjee, CEO of Zamit, in a company media release.
IMU excellence centre
Mumbai, August 8. Indian Maritime University (IMU) inked a MoU with R.K. Mehrotra Holding Pvt. Ltd, a subsidiary of the Foresight Group, under which the latter will invest $1.5 million (Rs.12.5 crore) to establish a Dr. R.K. Mehrotra Centre of Excellence of maritime research and innovation on the Kolkata campus of IMU.
“I am excited to support IMU in its mission to advance research and innovation of the maritime sector. The Centre of Excellence reflects our commitment to foster innovation and create better opportunities for students and researchers. It is my mission to contribute to give back to my alma mater,” said R.K. Mehrotra, managing director of RKMHPL, speaking on the occasion.
SIIC-Canara Bank agreement
Kanpur, August 9. The Startup Incubation and Innovation Centre (SIIC) of the Indian Institute of Technology, Kanpur (IIT-K) signed a MoU with Canara Bank to provide comprehensive support to entrepreneurs, including co-incubation facilities, mentorship, technological assistance, and funding.
“This partnership brings the strengths of academia and industry together creating a powerful synergy to support startups. We are excited to collaborate with Canara Bank to provide a robust platform for innovation and entrepreneurship,” said Prof. Ankush Sharma, professor-in-charge of SIIC, IIT-K, addressing a media conference.
Under this agreement, SIIC and Canara Bank will jointly organise a series of seminars, conferences, and workshops, designed to offer startups valuable insights into the industry landscape and critical networking opportunities with key players. Moreover the partners will facilitate exchange of knowledge and best practices, providing startups with industry mentorship from experienced professionals.
PW-SOS launched
Noida, August 21. Physics Wallah (PW), a well-known edtech platform launched the PW School of Startups (SOS) for aspiring entrepreneurs to promote successful ventures.
The prime objective of PW-SOS is to prepare individuals for the challenges of entrepreneurship by equipping them with essential skills, real-world experience, and a supportive community. PW SOS intends to foster innovation, creativity, and sustainable growth in the startup world.
“I believe that progressing Bharat’s startup ecosystem can significantly contribute to our nation’s economic growth, and see immense potential in startups emerging from Tier 2 and 3 cities. India’s entrepreneurs possess incredible business ideas but often struggle due to lack of guidance and the absence of a supportive community,” said Alakh Pandey, founder-CEO of Physics Wallah at the PW-SOS launch ceremony.
Kotak Kanya-IIT-B scholarships
Mumbai, August 13. The Mumbai-based Kotak Education Foundation (KEF) — the CSR implementing agency of the Kotak Mahindra Group — signed a MoU with IIT-Bombay to institute Kotak Kanya-IIT Bombay Scholarships.
Under terms of the MoU, selected women students from underserved communities in IIT-B will receive financial support of Rs.2.85 lakh per year until the completion of their degree programmes to enable them to “pursue their higher education without financial constraints.”
“The Kotak Kanya IIT-Bombay Scholarship is a powerful, transformative, industry-leading initiative to empower girl children from underserved communities through education. This merit-cum-means scholarship is designed to provide a comprehensive umbrella of financial aid, holistic mentorship, industry exposure, valuable career counselling and academic support, critical life skills and communication skills to drive mindset changes and foster future leaders,” said Dr. Ganesh Raja, CEO of the Kotak Education Foundation, speaking on the occasion.
Added Prof. Ravindra Gudi, dean alumni and corporate relations, IIT-Bombay: “The Kotak Kanya-IIT Bombay Scholarship is a powerful catalyst for change that will enable exceptional young women from underserved communities to claim their rightful place in STEM fields. It will drive gender equality in higher education.”