NEW DELHI: As part of the 3rd Australia–India Education and Skills Council (AIESC) Meeting in New Delhi, India and Australia convened a substantive bilateral dialogue to advance cooperation in skills development, workforce mobility, and the rapidly growing sports economy. The bilateral meeting was co-chaired by Shri Jayant Chaudhary, Hon’ble Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Skill Development and Entrepreneurship & Minister of State for Education, and Hon. Andrew Giles MP, Minister for Skills & Training, Commonwealth of Australia.

The deliberations acknowledged the strong upward trajectory in India–Australia relations and reinforced the need to translate this momentum into well-structured pathways for the movement of skilled professionals. Both sides agreed to accelerate the operationalisation of the Mutual Recognition of Qualifications (MRQ) mechanism and to co-design bridge courses that align competencies and facilitate seamless mobility. Particular emphasis was laid on preparing skilled workers for global standards in advanced construction, given Australia’s infrastructure expansion ahead of major sporting events.

A key element of the discussions revolved around the strategic opportunities emerging from India’s bid for the 2030 Commonwealth Games and Australia’s hosting of the 2032 Brisbane Olympics and Paralympics. The sports and physical wellness sector was collectively recognised as a sunrise industry with significant employment prospects and potential to contribute nearly 2% to India’s GDP. Australia’s global leadership in sports management, sports technology was identified as a complementary strength to India’s expanding sports manufacturing and gig-economy landscape.

Further collaboration was proposed between India’s skilling institutions — including ITIs and National Skill Training Institutes (NSTIs) — and Australia’s TAFE network, with joint work expected in areas spanning mining, digital and IT skills, hospitality, green jobs, renewable energy, and logistics.

Shri Jayant Chaudhary also underlined India’s commitment to future-oriented skills under the Skilling for AI Readiness (SOAR) initiative, along with the importance of joint ethical frameworks and standards for digital adoption. The ministers agreed that responsible and high-quality workforce mobility must guide bilateral cooperation going forward.

Speaking on the occasion, Shri Jayant Chaudhary stated, “India and Australia are natural partners in shaping the global workforce of the future. By strengthening pathways, aligning standards, and leveraging each other’s sectoral strengths, we can enable youth to access global opportunities while supporting dynamic industry needs in both our economies. I also propose that we establish an annual India-Australia Skills Meet, held alternately in India and Australia. This platform can drive harmonisation and equivalence in selected skills, deepen institutional partnerships, and keep our training ecosystems aligned with industry needs in both countries.”

“Australia is one of India’s most important partners in this space. We also explored new avenues in sports-related skilling ahead of major global events, including joint training, curriculum development, and industry partnerships,” he further added.

Hon. Andrew Giles MP remarked that Australia deeply values its partnership with India, and as our nations prepare for major sporting and economic milestones, skills cooperation will play a vital role in ensuring shared prosperity and measurable impact for our people.

The meeting witnessed participation from senior officials of MSDE, the Directorate General of Training, NCVET, NSDC, and representatives from the Australian Department of Education and its Skills and Training agencies.

The bilateral session concluded with a shared resolve to maintain high-level engagement and fast-track collaborative models that enhance training quality, strengthen global mobility, and contribute to building future-ready skill ecosystems in both countries.

The post India and Australia Enhance Skills and Mobility Partnership in Sports, Construction, and Technology appeared first on NRI News.

PUNE: In a significant move to equip India’s youth with industry-relevant skills, Medhavi Skills University (MSU) has partnered with BVG Skill Academy and BVG Security Services Pvt. Ltd.

To integrate practical, on-the-job learning into formal academic programs. This collaboration aims to bridge the education-to-employment gap by ensuring learners are equipped with both recognized qualifications and real-world industry experience.

Pravesh Dudani, Founder and Chancellor, MSU, emphasized, “This collaboration is a step towards transforming education from a theoretical pursuit to a practical pathway for employment. By integrating real work experience into formal degrees, we are equipping students with industry-relevant skills.”

Kuldip Sarma, Co-Founder and Pro-Chancellor, Medhavi Skills University, said, “MSU’s focus is not just on creating job seekers, but on nurturing confident, skilled professionals ready to contribute from day one. Our collaboration with BVG marks a milestone in our mission, bringing together two like-minded organizations committed to empowering youth towards an Atmanirbhar Bharat.”  

Under the partnership with BVG Skill Academy, Medhavi Skills University will offer a range of work-integrated programs, including vocational degrees (Bachelor of Vocation & Master of Vocation), diplomas, and short-term certifications. These programs will combine structured on-the-job training with academic classes and mentoring, ensuring students gain both theoretical knowledge and practical, hands-on experience.

MSU’s Learning Management System (LMS) enables real-time progress tracking and personalized academic support for students. The collaboration is centered on co-creating industry-integrated, National Education Policy 2020-aligned curricula to equip students with skills that are not just academically recognized but immediately relevant and applicable in today’s dynamic workplace. 

“Skill development is not just a necessity; it’s a national priority. When academia and industry join forces, the result is transformative learning that prepares students for real-world challenges. Our partnership with Medhavi Skills University is designed to create career pathways that go beyond certifications. We’re committed to building capable professionals and nurturing the leaders of tomorrow,” said Hanmantrao Gaikwad, Founder, Chairman, and Managing Director, BVG India Limited.

India’s youth unemployment crisis is deeply rooted in the disconnect between academic qualifications and industry requirements. Recognizing this, Medhavi Skills University (MSU) has integrated work-based learning into its degree and diploma programs, ensuring students are job-ready from the very start of their education journey.

Through this new partnership with BVG Security Services, learners will receive practical, hands-on training across real-world operational environments, including security management, facilities services, and infrastructure support while pursuing their formal academic curriculum in real-life. This program is especially beneficial for 10th and 12th-year students, providing them with an opportunity to earn skill-based qualifications while gaining valuable work experience, thereby enhancing their employability and career prospects.

This collaboration exemplifies how higher education can evolve to meet the aspirations of India’s youth. By integrating employability into the learning journey, MSU and BVG are setting a precedent for industry-academia partnerships focused on inclusion, quality, and long-term societal impact.

The post Medhavi Skills University and BVG Group Collaborate to Enhance Industry-Integrated Education in India appeared first on NRI News.

This MOU was exchanged between Shri Sriram Krishnan, Chief Business Development Officer, NSE and Shri Prashant Kishore Mohapatra, Special Secretary, Govt. of Odisha in the distinguished presence of Suryabanshi Suraj, Hon’ble Minister of State(I/C), Higher Education, Sports & Youth Services, Odia language, Literature & Culture, Govt. of Odisha, today at Bhubaneshwar. As part of the understanding, NSE, with the support of the Government of Odisha, shall conduct awareness drives through seminars, camps, knowledge sessions, road shows, and workshops to spread financial literacy and investor awareness. This MoU also aims to empower the youth with industry-relevant skills and enhance their employability in the BFSI sector.

Odisha has an expanding financial ecosystem, and it is imperative to empower the students, investors, and corporates. This understanding embraces various fabrics of the financial ecosystem, targeting various stakeholders. This multifaceted MoU is a step towards enhancing financial literacy, promoting investor awareness, and fostering the empowerment of existing and new investors. Additionally, the MoU focuses on preparing youth with essential skills through NSE’s Student Skilling Program—an initiative aligned with the central government’s vision of unlocking human capital and enabling both employability and self-employment in the BFSI sector.

Shri Suryabanshi Suraj, Hon’ble Minister of State(I/C), Higher Education, Sports & Youth Services, Odia language, literature & Culture, Govt. of Odisha said, “The Government of Odisha is proud to partner with NSE to drive financial literacy, investor awareness, and student skilling in our region. This MoU is not just about expanding financial knowledge; it is about empowering our students with the knowledge and skills they need concerning the financial sector. Together, we are creating a robust financial ecosystem that will pave the way for sustainable growth in Odisha”.

Shri Sriram Krishnan, Chief Business Development Officer, NSE, said, “Our collaboration with the Government of Odisha highlights our shared dedication to boosting financial literacy and empowering investors. Through initiatives like investor awareness programs and the Student Skilling Program, we are fostering a well-informed community for both seasoned and new investors. Moreover, we are also committed to equipping the youth of Odisha with the vital skills needed to thrive in today’s ever-evolving financial landscape.”

From April 2024 to March 2025, NSE conducted 14,679 Investor Awareness Programs across all 36 states & Union Territories in 14 languages, reaching more than 8 lakh participants. Under the Student Skilling Program more than 7500 students have been trained across various states.

The post NSE and Odisha Government Unite to Advance Financial Literacy and Career Skills in the BFSI Sector appeared first on NRI News.

The initiative aims to enhance the capabilities of personnel from cyber cells, crime branch, detection units, and anti-narcotics cells in tackling digital crimes such as online fraud, phishing, financial cyber threats, and social media misuse.

Speaking at the event, Datta Nalawade, Deputy Commissioner of Police, Crime Branch, Mumbai, said, “As cybercrime evolves in scale and sophistication, our officers must stay ahead of the curve. This training is a vital step in preparing our force to investigate and respond to digital threats more effectively. Public awareness is equally important, and we appreciate the efforts being made to educate citizens on safe and responsible digital practices.”

Sanjaykumar Patil, Deputy Commissioner of Police (HQ), Navi Mumbai, said, “We appreciate the initiative taken by United Way Mumbai, with the support of FedEx, in organizing focused trainings for our officers and spreading awareness among the public. This collaboration strengthens our collective response to cyber threats and builds a safer digital environment for all.”

The training programme is part of a larger effort led by UWM and supported by FedEx to promote cybersecurity awareness and build institutional capacities. So far, UWM has reached over 10,000 citizens across Mumbai, Navi Mumbai, Delhi, Hyderabad, and Bangalore. In Mumbai alone, 5,197 women, youth, and senior citizens have been sensitised to cyber hygiene and digital safety practices. The initiative has also trained over 500 officers from the Navi Mumbai Police in cybercrime investigation.

The programme is supported by FedEx as part of its ongoing commitment to empowering communities through enhanced digital safety and resilience against cybercrime. “FedEx is proud to work alongside government authorities and civil society organizations to help build a digitally secure India,” said Nitin Navneet Tatiwala, vice president of marketing, air network, and customer experience, Middle East, Indian Subcontinent, and Africa, FedEx. “We are grateful to the Mumbai Police for their tireless efforts in protecting our communities and keeping citizens safe, and we appreciate United Way Mumbai for collaborating with us to conduct these sessions.”

George Aikara, CEO of United Way Mumbai, said, “This training reflects the Mumbai Police’s proactive stance on cybercrime. Based on their evolving needs, we’ve helped bring in the right partners and resources to ensure the sessions are relevant and actionable. We’re proud to support their efforts and grateful to FedEx for making this public-private collaboration possible.”

Officials said the initiative reflects a shared commitment to public safety and proactive cybercrime prevention through cross-sector collaboration.

The post Mumbai Police Enhances Cybersecurity Skills appeared first on NRI News.

Dr Rishikesh Patankar, Vice President, of NSDC, and Srini Venkatesan, Global Chief Technology Officer, PayPal, exchanged the MoU in the presence of senior members of both organisations on Friday.

The key objective of the MoU is the economic empowerment of thousands of youth, with a special focus on women from low-income families through skill development. The candidates will be provided livelihood opportunities through skill enhancement, soft skills, and personality development training. The training will ensure that they are job-ready.

Dr Rishikesh Patankar said, “At NSDC, our mission is to prepare youth with the essential skills required for employment. This collaboration signifies a major step forward in empowering the youth and women of India to play a vital role in the nation’s progress and development. By providing them with industry-specific skills in the financial sector, we are opening doors to opportunities for meaningful careers and entrepreneurial endeavors.”

As per the MoU, specialized training programs that are National Skills Qualification Framework (NSQF)-aligned will be offered to candidates. They will be provided training courses of 420 hours to 480 hours in their respective fintech domains, including Bancassurance Relationship Associate, Customer Service Associate- Financial Services, Sales Associate- Direct Channel, MIS Analyst- Financial Services, GST Assistant and Account Assistant. This will ensure that the candidates receive high-quality training and develop the financial acumen needed to secure a job or embark on their entrepreneurial journey in the sector.

V. Chandramouliswaran, Vice President of PayPal India Global Technology Centre said “We are delighted to partner with NSDC in this unique initiative which directly supports the Indian Government’s Skill India vision.   Collaborating with NSDC allows us to empower Indian youth and women with valuable skills, opening doors to economic opportunity and enabling them to contribute to India’s vibrant growth story.”

NSDC will implement the project across various districts in the country, including Chennai (Tamil Nadu), Patna (Bihar), Hyderabad (Telangana), Surat (Gujarat), Indore (Madhya Pradesh), Bengaluru (Karnataka), Mumbai (Maharashtra), and Ranchi (Jharkhand). As of March 11, 2025,  candidates are undergoing training across these districts.

NSDC will also support the candidates in their endeavor to secure jobs through its extensive network. It will ensure that at least 70% of the candidates participate in job fairs and interviews. NSDC will also help candidates explore self-employment opportunities.

This partnership is expected to narrow the skill gap in the BFSI sector while supporting budding individuals to realize their dreams of making a career in the sector.

The post NSDC and PayPal’s Initiative to Equip Youth for Financial Careers appeared first on NRI News.

MUMBAI: Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan’s S.P. Jain Institute of Management and Research (SPJIMR) Centre for Family Business & Entrepreneurship (CFBE) invites applications for its Ladies in Family Enterprise (LiFE) program. LiFE is an enriching short-term program that seeks to nurture and empower women from business families with little or no experience in the business currently. They can be related to the owner/s either as wives, daughters-in-law, mothers, or daughters.   

LiFE is a four-month program where sessions are conducted twice a week in a hybrid mode (both offline/online). It aims to build a basic understanding of the business and the family, and the inter-relationship between the two. It also helps women to explore their role in the family business or start a new entrepreneurial venture supported by family and networks. Sessions are led by experienced academicians, industry experts, and alumni. The flexible program structure allows participants to integrate it into their daily routines perfectly.

On successful completion of the program, the participants shall be awarded the ‘Certificate of Participation’ from SPJIMR, recognized by the Financial Times Master in Management Ranking 2023 as India’s number 1 business school.

In a message to aspirants, Prof. Tulsi Jayakumar, Executive Director, CFBE, and Chairperson, Post Graduate Programme in Family Managed Business (PGPFMB), said, “90 percent of businesses in India are family businesses. Women from business families play a silent role and constitute silent assets. LiFE seeks to realize the hidden gems among business families by providing structured learning about business and its various dimensions. The end goal of the program is to build knowledge and skills needed to run a business and also to build confidence and empower women in business families.” 

Since 1997, SPJIMR’s CFBE has pioneered formal learning for family businesses with its 18-month PGPFMB. The program aims to nurture and develop talent within Indian family businesses and has helped over 4,000 family enterprises with its unique pedagogy focused on next-generation leaders. CFBE provides a platform for networking, learning, and growth, helping family-run businesses to thrive by offering access to best practices and cutting-edge knowledge.

Eligibility

• Women from business families with little or no experience in their family business
• Should be at least an undergraduate degree holder
• Over 30 years of age
• Comfortable with English, as it is the medium of instruction

Important program information

• Batch commencing from September 03, 2024. Know more: https://www.spjimr.org/course/ladies-in-family-enterprise-life/
• Sessions shall be conducted twice a week over four months, followed by a business plan presentation.
• For important dates, please refer to: https://www.spjimr.org/course/ladies-in-family-enterprise-life/admissions/
• For more information about the LiFE program and the application process, please visit https://www.spjimr.org/course/ladies-in-family-enterprise-life/.
• Admissions are in progress. Aspirants should complete the application form via the online admissions portal at https://spjimr-pgpfmb.nopaperforms.com/spjimr-life-application-form

The post SPJIMR Launches LiFE Programme For Women In Business Families appeared first on NRI News.

The conclave included knowledge sessions and panel discussions on several topics like New Age Skills and Programs, the Industry First Approach, AI disruption, and Towards Industry 5.0, etc.

Industry Experts gave an overview of the High Growth Segments to the participants. Faculties, Industry Partners, and alumni joined the deliberations to share their views and experiences. The Conclave touched upon various aspects and challenges like employability, skill-based education, bridging the skills gap, alignment with job roles, hands-on training, and the need for skill-based education.  

The program was a part of a three-day visit to two of Symbiosis Skills University campuses including Symbiosis Skills and Professional University, Pune, and Symbiosis University of Applied Sciences, Indore. High School Principal participated from across the country spread over Delhi, Kolkatta, Jaipur, Gorakhpur, Patna, Lucknow, Hyderabad, Ahmedabad etc.  

The conclave concluded with a workshop discussing the way forward, integrating high school education with the New Education Policy that emphasizes skill-based education.

The post ‘National Principals’ Conclave’ At Symbiosis Skills And Professional University appeared first on NRI News.

Placing students at the forefront of learning, the schools adopt an inquiry-based and interdisciplinary approach. Under the inspiring motto ‘Believe in Yourself,’ the schools focus on nurturing each student’s unique strengths, encouraging them to dream big, and providing abundant opportunities to Learn, Grow, Excel, and Innovate. They view education as a medium to open minds, provide direction, explore passion, and build unbeatable competence.

Innovative pedagogical approaches, seamlessly integrating technology, are a hallmark of The Lexicon Schools. From state-of-the-art IT labs to coding classes from Class I, the schools prioritize the early development of digital skills. Beyond academics, the curriculum includes experiential learning, art integration, and practical insights into digital marketing, SEO, content marketing, personal brand development, and memory techniques, aiming to prepare scholars as adept citizens in the evolving technological world.

The schools distinguish themselves by exposing students to dynamic concepts and the latest ideologies and terminologies prevalent in today’s business world. Initiatives like Caterpillar to Butterfly (C2B), Research and Development programs, Lexicon MUN, Behes & Maha Behes, Stem Fest, MI Fest, Entrepreneurship Conclave, and many more encourage the development of leadership and entrepreneurial skills, showcasing the schools’ commitment to providing a holistic education.

To foster a 360-degree approach to education, The Lexicon Schools extend beyond traditional textbooks and classrooms. They provide students with multi-disciplinary, multi-sensory, and diverse learning encounters through activities, excursions, seminars, and projects. The goal is to foster well-rounded personalities by promoting critical thinking and encouraging problem-anticipating and problem-solving skills. The schools celebrate diversity and actively involve students in various competitions, events, field trips, community service, and sports tournaments.

Recognized for their excellence, The Lexicon Schools have garnered accolades, been featured in Forbes’ Great Places to Study in India, and honored with the BBC Knowledge Education Award. The International Dimension in Schools award further cements its status as a distinguished educational institution.

“At The Lexicon Schools, ‘Believe in yourself’ isn’t just a motto; it’s a mantra for success. We empower our students to trust their instincts, tackle challenges, and turn dreams into reality. Being acclaimed as the top school in Pune for the 9th consecutive year echoes our commitment to nurturing self-belief as the cornerstone of every student’s educational journey,” expressed Pankaj Sharma, President, The Lexicon Group of Institutes, Chairman & MD, Pune Times Mirror, Civic Mirror, and MultiFit.

“The Lexicon Schools stand as pillars of holistic education, instilling virtues of humanity, kindness, oneness, coexistence, and sustainability in every student. Through our innovative approach to education, we aim to empower students not only with academic knowledge but also with a deep sense of responsibility and ethics. As responsible members of society, we strive to prepare our students to navigate the complexities of the modern world, making a positive impact and contributing meaningfully to the community at large,” said Nasir Shaikh, Group Chief Executive Officer, The Lexicon Group of Institutes, EduCrack, & EasyRecruit+.

The post The Lexicon Schools Secure Top Rank in Pune for the 9th Consecutive Year in Times School Survey 2023 appeared first on NRI News.

In alignment with the National Education Policy 2020’s recommendation to introduce vocational subjects after the 6th standard, BrickETC’s courses will seamlessly integrate into the schools’ curriculum. These courses are designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge necessary to explore their interests and potential career paths.

During engagements with students from JSPM schools, it was discovered that more than 60% of them aspire to become business owners or entrepreneurs in the future. While these schools offer exceptional academic education, BrickETC’s programs are uniquely positioned to provide the guidance required to transform these aspirations into reality. Today’s ‘Generation Alpha’ students have unparalleled exposure to ongoing career trends but often lack the proper channels and guidance to translate their potential into success within the competitive job market.

Dr. Pooja Misal, Founder of BrickETC and Founder Director of SMEF’s Brick Group of Institutes, underscores the significance of informed career choices in fostering a happy and successful life. She emphasizes, “Experiencing courses before committing to a full-time program was never an option in the past. We at BrickETC are excited to witness these students exploring engaging courses on our platform. The Management and Principals of JSPM and TSSM schools have recognized this need for their students, and we are thrilled to bridge this gap, guiding them from interest to ability to career. We eagerly anticipate collaborating with more schools.”

Minu Joshi, the Academic Head at BrickETC, adds, “Today, parents encourage their children to choose their careers freely. However, without ample knowledge, this independence can be counterproductive. With BrickETC, we provide a platform that bridges this knowledge gap through multiple short-term creative courses, offering students a first-hand experience to assess and truly understand their abilities.“

Career counseling plays a pivotal role in guiding students toward the right career choices. According to a survey by BrickETC, only 10% of students are aware of this, with over 40% relying on Google for career guidance. Additionally, 35% of students believe that interacting with professionals in specific fields can help them make better career choices. For 81% of students, having the opportunity to try a course or field before pursuing it as a career is ideal – a role that BrickETC’s courses aptly fulfill. In an era where following one’s passion is highly valued, 70% of students believe that their passion should determine their future careers. However, the sustainability and viability of their passion as a career remain crucial questions, and BrickETC’s courses provide answers to these questions.

G. T. Sawant, Secretary and Director of JSPM & TSSM Group, expressed optimism about the MoU’s impact on learning and exposure in the schools. He stated, “This MoU will enhance the quality of education and empower our students to make informed choices from an early age. Embracing technological innovations to enhance growth and development is essential, and BrickETC’s courses are a step in the right direction for all our schools.“

The collaboration between BrickETC and JSPM & TSSM Schools represents a significant milestone in empowering students to explore their passions and make informed career choices. With a shared vision for a brighter future, this collaboration is poised to inspire and guide students toward fulfilling their aspirations.

The post BrickETC Signs MoU With JSPM & TSSM Schools In Pune Benefitting Almost 8,000 Students appeared first on NRI News.

Dr. Swati Mujumdar, Pro-Chancellor of SSPU, warmly welcomed Mr. Hankey to Symbiosis Skills and Professional University (SSPU)

She introduced SSPU, highlighting its mission and vision. Dr. Mujumdar also shared the research about skill education, which led to the establishment of the Symbiosis Skill Universities (Symbiosis Skills and Professional University and Symbiosis University of Applied Sciences). She emphasized the university’s unique pedagogy, which focuses on experiential learning and a hands-on approach to education.

Accompanying Mr. Hankey during the visit was Ms. Behrooz K.Y. Avari, Director of Education Outreach at the US Consulate General in Mumbai. Together, they had the opportunity to explore the skill centers and interact with students enrolled in skill-based courses, particularly in high-tech areas and Industry 4.0.

One of the highlights of the visit was Mr. Hankey’s interaction with women undergoing training in areas such as Electric Vehicles (EV), Industrial Automation, and other essential skills. He was impressed by the practical approach and the relevance of the courses being offered at SSPU.

SSPU also runs short-term programs targeted at economically marginalized sections of society. As a gesture of appreciation, women from the Pimpri Chinchwad Area, who were trained under this initiative, presented Mr. Hankey with a handmade bag featuring a slogan related to Wari, an annual pilgrimage to Pandharpur.

Furthermore, discussions were held during the visit regarding the possibility of initiating Fulbright programs in skill development. The joint statement that India and the United States issued during the Honorable Prime Minister’s recent visit to the US emphasized skill development as a key focus area for collaboration between the two countries.

The visit of Mr. Mike Hankey to Symbiosis Skills and Professional University marks an important step in strengthening ties between India and the United States in the field of skill development. Both parties expressed a strong commitment to exploring avenues of cooperation and promoting the exchange of knowledge and expertise.

The post US Consul General in Mumbai Mike Hankey Visits Symbiosis Skills and Professional University (SSPU) appeared first on NRI News.