Campus Times | LucknowA major employment fair organized by the Department of Vocational Education and Skill Development turned into a career milestone for youth, as 2,527 candidates received job offers on the spot. The fair, held at Deendayal Upadhyay Institute, attracted 8,694 enthusiastic participants and 116 top companies from multiple sectors.Government’s Push for Youth EmpowermentThe event was inaugurated by Kapil Dev Agarwal, Minister of Vocational Education and Skill Development, at Jupiter Hall. He stressed that the government’s focus goes beyond training—creating respectable employment and promoting self-reliance among youth remains a top priority.Opportunities Across Key SectorsCompanies from diverse sectors, including retail, FMCG, healthcare, and logistics, participated. Big names such as Flipkart, Swiggy, Blinkit, MedPlus, and Britannia offered attractive job prospects.Recruitments extended to banking, service, automobile, and finance-related sectors, including microfinance, NBFCs, and credit access services. Employers like Hero MotoCorp, Mahindra, and Omex Auto provided additional opportunities for youth.Women & Divyang Candidates Take the LeadThe fair ensured inclusive participation. A total of 473 women candidates engaged in sectors like manufacturing, hospitality, and services, while 56 differently-abled candidates also secured jobs. Pulkit Khare, Director of Training, highlighted that similar fairs will soon reach rural areas to expand employment access.Launch of Three Digital Platforms for Skill DevelopmentThe event also saw the launch of three innovative digital platforms—Kaushal Setu, Kaushal Darpan, and Kaushal Mitra—designed to streamline skill training and employment access:Kaushal Darpan: Centralized hub for all critical skill and employment information.Kaushal Mitra Chatbot: Provides 24x7 assistance to job seekers.Kaushal Setu: Bridges the gap between youth and companies for seamless employment access.Dr. Hari Om, Principal Secretary of Skill Development, said, “These platforms will enhance connectivity between companies and youth, helping strengthen the state’s economy.”

Campus Times | LucknowThe Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Lucknow has announced the launch of a Venture Capital and Private Equity (VCPE) programme in collaboration with Emeritus, aimed at working professionals looking to build expertise in investment and fund management.The nine-month programme will be conducted primarily in online mode, with a three-day on-campus immersion at IIM Lucknow to provide participants with hands-on exposure, peer interaction and leadership development opportunities.According to the institute, the programme’s curriculum has been designed to address the growing demand for skilled professionals in the VC and private equity sector in India. It covers critical areas such as market evaluation, deal origination, valuation methods, portfolio management and exit strategies. The learning approach combines classroom instruction with practical workshops and a supervised capstone project, enabling participants to gain both conceptual clarity and real-world application skills.Programme DetailsThe programme will commence on March 31, 2026. Applicants must have a minimum of two years of professional experience. The course fee is ₹3,20,000 plus GST.Key Features of the ProgrammeStructured VCPE Curriculum: Ten comprehensive modules covering venture capital, private equity, fund formation, due diligence, artificial intelligence in investments and impact investing.Applied Learning Approach: Practical sessions on valuation techniques, deal structuring, capital raising and negotiation processes.Capstone Project: A group-based fund simulation that allows participants to apply learning to real investment scenarios.Campus Immersion: A three-day residential module at IIM Lucknow focused on leadership skills, networking and peer learning.Faculty and Industry Experts: Teaching by IIM Lucknow faculty along with seasoned professionals from the investment industry.Programme Certification: Successful participants will receive a certificate of completion from IIM Lucknow, with an option to obtain Executive Alumni status.The initiative reflects IIM Lucknow’s continued focus on executive education and industry-aligned programmes, catering to professionals seeking to advance their careers in the fast-evolving investment and finance ecosystem.About VCPEVenture Capital (VC) funds

Campus Times |LucknowThe Uttar Pradesh government is planning a major reform in the madrasa education system by affiliating madrasas with state universities. The move aims to provide students studying in madrasas with better academic recognition and wider employment opportunities. Under the proposed plan, examinations for Kamil and Fazil courses offered in madrasas will be conducted by state universities. To implement the change, the government intends to amend the Uttar Pradesh State Universities Act, 1973, allowing madrasas to receive affiliation from nearby universities in a manner similar to degree colleges.Boost to Recognition and EmploymentOfficials say the initiative is designed to ensure that madrasa students receive academic credentials equivalent to those of university students. Once affiliated with universities, the degrees awarded to madrasa students will gain wider recognition, potentially improving their access to professional and government job opportunities. At present, students studying in madrasas have limited avenues for employment outside a few specialized sectors. The state government believes that linking madrasas with universities will help bridge this gap and make higher education pathways more accessible.A Strategic Step for Future OpportunitiesThe proposal has been prepared by the state’s Higher Education Department and is currently under review. After necessary scrutiny, it will be sent to the government for approval and subsequently placed before the state cabinet. Once cleared, the government will issue a formal order to implement the plan.Kamil and Fazil Degree In the madrasa education system, the Kamil degree is considered equivalent to a bachelor’s degree, while the Fazil degree is regarded as equivalent to a postgraduate qualification. The government’s proposal seeks to formally align these qualifications with the mainstream university framework.Madrasa in Uttar PradeshAccording to official estimates, Uttar Pradesh has around 25,000 madrasas. Of these, approximately 16,500 are recognized by the madrasa education board, while only about 560 receive government grants. Among

Campus Times|LucknowUttar Pradesh Finance Minister Shri Suresh Khanna said that through digitalisation, education is now reaching every student across the state, even in the remotest areas. He emphasized that with the help of technology, no child will be deprived of quality education.7,400+ Smart Classrooms Rollout In a bold push to transform government schools into centres of future-ready education, the Uttar Pradesh government has installed 7,409 smart classrooms and set up resource centres for technology labs in 5,228 schools across the state. This massive upgrade comes as part of the state’s development roadmap under the ₹9.12 lakh crore UP Budget 2026-27, which prioritises education, technology and empowerment of students statewide.Fulfilling the gap These state-of-the-art smart classrooms and technology resource centres are designed to bring modern, digital learning to every corner of the state, bridging the gap between urban and rural education. From interactive lessons to digital tools, students will now learn in an environment that prepares them for tomorrow’s challenges.UP Budget 2026 Boosts Digital LearningEducation has emerged as a key focus of the budget, with significant allocations aimed at enhancing digital learning infrastructure and ensuring students can compete on a global stage. The move is expected to democratise quality education and inspire a new generation of skilled learners and innovators.Officials say this technological leap is not just about hardware—it’s about unlocking opportunities, boosting confidence, and shaping futures. With smart classrooms and tech labs now a reality in thousands of schools, Uttar Pradesh is charging ahead in its mission to redefine public education for the digital age.

Campus Times | Lucknow The beginning of the new academic session has turned stressful for many Class 9 students and their families, as essential NCERT textbooks remain unavailable across several bookstores in the city. Key subjects such as Science (Exploration), Mathematics, and Social Science are reportedly out of stock, forcing parents and students to make repeated visits to shops without any clear assurance of availability.Booksellers have acknowledged the shortage but say they are unable to provide a timeline for restocking. As a result, families are facing uncertainty at a crucial time when classes have already commenced.Experts attribute the situation to delays in finalising the updated Class 9 syllabus. According to sources, the revised curriculum was approved shortly before the academic session began, leaving insufficient time for printing and distribution. Educationists have criticised the lack of planning, noting that such gaps place unnecessary pressure on students and create avoidable disruptions in learning.Social Science Textbook Yet to Be ReleasedAdding to the concerns, the first volume of the new Class 9 Social Science textbook has not yet been released. While some revised books were made available around April 10 and the first part of the Mathematics textbook was released only recently, Social Science continues to remain unavailable.Teachers are finding it difficult to proceed with the syllabus in the absence of official textbooks. A teacher from a Kendriya Vidyalaya stated that classes are being affected, increasing pressure to complete the curriculum on time.In some cases, schools are relying on digital alternatives. Students report that teachers have downloaded copies from the official website, but the lack of physical books remains a significant challenge for effective classroom learning.Online Price Surge Raises ConcernsAmid the shortage, another issue troubling parents is the sharp rise in prices of NCERT textbooks on online platforms. The Class 9 Science (Exploration) book, officially

Campus Times|LucknowUttar Pradesh is taking bold steps to empower rural women, and it’s not just about government schemes—it’s about creating opportunities, independence, and a future where women can thrive. Under the Pink Budget 2026-27, the state is focusing on entrepreneurship, safety, and self-reliance, in line with the Union Budget 2026-27’s vision to boost women-led businesses and increase women’s participation in India’s economy.What is SHE-Mart ?One of the most exciting initiatives is SHE-Mart (Self-Help Entrepreneur Mart). Think of it as a hub where women become business owners, selling their products directly to customers instead of relying on loans. SHE-Marts build on the popular Lakhpati Didi program, which helped women learn practical skills like plumbing, making LED bulbs, and even using drones—helping them earn a steady ₹1 lakh per year.What makes SHE-Marts special is their three-level support system—markets, capital, and networks. This means women can grow their businesses, access funding, and connect with other entrepreneurs, taking their enterprises to the next level. By linking women’s groups to both agricultural and non-agricultural markets, the initiative boosts rural economies while making women financially independent.It’s not just about business. Mission Shakti, UP’s flagship women’s safety program, is in its 5.0 phase (launched 2025), focusing on self-defense, legal awareness, dignity, and economic participation. Strengthened helplines, community centres, and police support have already led to fewer complaints and faster response times, making communities safer for women.UP Sparks Women LeadersOfficials say these initiatives are creating a new generation of confident, independent women who are contributing to the state’s growth. By combining entrepreneurship, safety, and social empowerment, Uttar Pradesh is setting a model for inclusive development and women’s empowerment that’s not just for today—it’s shaping the future.

Campus Times | Lucknow Sanjana Kumari, a student of Dr. Shakuntala Misra National Rehabilitation University, has delivered an outstanding performance at the Czech Para Badminton International Championship 2026, clinching one gold and one bronze medal. Her remarkable achievement has brought immense pride to both her university and the nation.The prestigious tournament was held in Czech Republic from April 14 to April 19, 2026, featuring top para badminton players from across the globe. Competing in the SL-3 category, Sanjana demonstrated exceptional skill, determination, and composure throughout the event.In the singles category, she fought through intense matches to secure a bronze medal. She then elevated her performance in the mixed doubles event, where her excellent coordination and strategic gameplay led her to win the gold medal.Upon her return, Sanjana received a warm and enthusiastic welcome at the university campus. The Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Sanjay Singh, along with faculty members and students, congratulated her on her remarkable success and wished her continued excellence in the future.Speaking on the occasion, the Vice-Chancellor praised her dedication, stating that Sanjana’s achievement is a matter of great pride for the institution and the country. He emphasized that her perseverance and commitment serve as an inspiration for aspiring athletes, and reaffirmed the university’s commitment to supporting talented sportspersons in every possible way.

Campus Times | Lucknow In a significant move aimed at expanding access to education, the Uttar Pradesh government has extended correspondence (distance) education facilities to students of Classes 9 and 10. Until now, this option was available only to Intermediate-level students.According to an order issued by the Director of Secondary Education, Mahendra Dev, registrations for the upcoming academic session will begin shortly under the revised system.Expansion of Correspondence Education SystemThe Correspondence Education Institute in Prayagraj, established in 1980 under a government directive, was originally set up to support candidates appearing as private students in the High School and Intermediate examinations conducted by the Board of Secondary Education. The institute ensures that private candidates register formally and follow a prescribed curriculum designed for board examinations.Over the years, the number of such students has steadily increased, prompting the government to expand the scheme further. The inclusion of Classes 9 and 10 is expected to benefit a large number of students who are unable to attend regular school but wish to continue their education and appear in board examinations.Education department officials have instructed all Divisional Joint Directors of Education and District School Inspectors to ensure proper implementation of the new directive. Detailed guidelines regarding the registration process will be issued separately in due course.This step is being seen as a student-centric reform that strengthens inclusive education and provides flexible learning opportunities to school dropouts and non-traditional learners across the state.

Campus Times | Lucknow In a breakthrough innovation for defence technology, Aman Kumar Verma, a third-year Electronics and Communication Engineering student at Dr. Shakuntala Misra National Rehabilitation University, has developed a cutting-edge unmanned ground vehicle (UGV) named “Rakshak.” The smart robot is designed to assist armed forces in high-risk operations and strengthen national security.“Rakshak” to rescue injured soldiersBuilt with a focus on anti-terror missions, “Rakshak” can detect buried landmines, identify hidden enemies, safely defuse explosives, and evacuate injured soldiers from danger zones. The robot features a 360-degree vision system, IoT-enabled remote access, autonomous navigation, and the ability to carry heavy loads, making it highly effective even in rugged terrains with low noise operation.Taking the innovation a step further, Aman plans to integrate the robot with a surveillance drone, “Vaishnavastra,” to create a powerful, real-time monitoring and response system for defence forces.Received ₹11 lakh grantThe project has received a major boost after being selected under the MSME Idea Hackathon 5.0 by the Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises, earning a grant of ₹11 lakh to support further development.Praising the achievementVice-Chancellor Prof. Sanjay Singh said the innovation reflects the university’s strong research ecosystem and highlights the crucial role of young innovators in advancing India’s defence capabilities and technological self-reliance.

Lucknow | The Indian Institute of Information Technology, Lucknow (IIIT Lucknow) has steadily emerged as a promising centre for advanced learning and innovation in the field of Information Technology. Established as one of the 20 Indian Institutes of Information Technology (IIITs) set up by the Government of India under the Public–Private Partnership (PPP) model, the institute reflects a forward-looking approach to technical education aligned with national development goals.IIIT Lucknow began its academic journey in the 2015–16 session, admitting its first batch of 50 B.Tech students in Information Technology. Since then, the institute has focused on creating an academic environment that nurtures technical competence, innovation, and a strong sense of responsibility toward society and the nation. Admissions Through National-Level CompetitionAdmissions to IIIT Lucknow are conducted through centralized counselling based on JEE (Main) ranks, ensuring a transparent and merit-based selection process. The institute provides its students with comprehensive academic and non-academic facilities designed to support holistic growth and professional excellence. A Strong Public–Private Partnership ModelThe institute is being developed with financial and strategic support from the Ministry of Human Resource Development (now Ministry of Education), Government of India, the Government of Uttar Pradesh, and U.P. Electronics Corporation Limited as the industry partner. This collaborative framework enables IIIT Lucknow to maintain a strong connection with industry needs while upholding academic rigor. Vision for a World-Class IT InstitutionIIIT Lucknow envisions itself as a world-class “Apex Centre of Excellence” in Information Technology, contributing to India’s technological strength in a rapidly evolving digital landscape. The institute draws inspiration from India’s rich intellectual traditions while actively working toward the creation of knowledge-based resources in regional languages, reinforcing inclusive and sustainable technological growth. Permanent Campus in a High-Tech EcosystemThe permanent campus of IIIT Lucknow is being developed on 50 acres of land at Chak Ganjaria, in the Gomti Nagar Extension area of

Campus Times| LucknowIn a significant move to improve the quality of technical education, the Uttar Pradesh Department of Technical Education will introduce a ranking system for private engineering and management institutes starting from the 2026–27 academic session.The ranking will cover more than 750 private colleges affiliated with Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam Technical University (AKTU). Officials said the department has completed preparations and will soon begin collecting data from institutions for evaluation.Earlier, the department had released rankings for government engineering colleges in the state. In that list, Kamla Nehru Institute of Technology, Sultanpur secured the top rank, while four newly established government engineering colleges were also assessed.Parameters for EvaluationPrivate institutes will be evaluated on 10 key performance parameters, including:Faculty quality and participationInfrastructure and facilitiesExtracurricular and academic activitiesExamination and evaluation reformsPractical training and lab productivityWorkshops and seminarsDegree outcomes and academic performanceResearch publications and projectsCampus placementsStartup and innovation initiativesBased on their performance, colleges will receive A, B, C, or D grades.Earlier, AKTU had attempted a similar ranking initiative for private colleges, but it was later discontinued due to misuse concerns. The new system will follow revised guidelines to ensure transparency and accountability.Officials believe the rankings will help students choose better colleges and motivate institutions to improve teaching standards, infrastructure, research output and placement opportunities.

Campus Times|LucknowThe Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) has announced the launch of a new undergraduate programme, BSc in Fabric and Apparel Design, to be offered under the Four-Year Undergraduate Programme (FYUP) structure. The programme will be available from the January 2026 admission cycle and will be delivered in Open and Distance Learning (ODL) mode through IGNOU’s School of Continuing Education (SOCE).Multiple Exit Options for StudentsIn line with the FYUP framework, the programme offers flexible exit pathways. Students can earn:a UG Certificate in Fabric and Apparel Design after one year,a UG Diploma after completing two years,a BSc degree at the end of three years, anda BSc (Honours) in Fabric and Apparel Design after successfully completing four years.Admission Open and Fee DetailsApplications for the programme are currently open. The annual programme fee is Rs 11,000, excluding registration and development charges. Official website https://www.ignou.ac.in/Aligned with NEP 2020 and UGC GuidelinesIGNOU stated that the curriculum has been developed in accordance with the UGC’s Curriculum and Credit Framework and is aligned with the objectives of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, ensuring academic flexibility and industry relevance.Eligibility and Academic StructureThe programme is open to candidates who have completed 10+2 with Science as a compulsory subject. The medium of instruction is English.Students must complete 120 credits for the three-year BSc degree, and examinations will be conducted on an annual basis.Focus on Industry-Ready SkillsThe BSc in Fabric and Apparel Design aims to provide learners with a solid foundation in textile science, fashion design, and garment construction. The curriculum blends scientific knowledge with creative and technical training to prepare students for industry-oriented roles.Career Opportunities and Learning SupportAccording to IGNOU, the programme places strong emphasis on innovation, sustainability, and professional competence, enabling graduates to explore careers in the textile and apparel sector, entrepreneurship, or pursue higher education.To ensure