In a landmark development, the World Health Organization (WHO) adopted the world's first global pandemic treaty during its annual World Health Assembly in Geneva on May 20, 2025. The agreement, passed by a vote of 124 in favor, none against, and 11 abstentions, aims to create a more equitable and coordinated global health response to future pandemics. The absence of the United States — a former WHO member — raises concerns about implementation and funding.
May 21, 2025
IIM Sambalpur Launches UG Programmes in Public Policy and Artificial Intelligence
IIM Sambalpur launched its two new undergraduate programmes, 'Bachelor of Science in Management and Public Policy' and 'Bachelor of Science in Data Science and Artificial Intelligence', in line with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. The programmes aim to help students strengthen skills in data analysis, critical reasoning, and evidence-based decision-making, according to a statement from the varsity.
The Bachelor of Science in Management and Public Policy programme is designed to meet national managerial aspirations in terms of Sustainability, ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance), and community-led development. The programme aims to equip change-makers with the ability needed to close the gap between policy and practice at the grassroots level.
The Bachelor of Science in Data Science and Artificial Intelligence is focused towards developing the country's digital capability and global competitiveness. Reaffirming the institution's pledge to innovation with integrity, the programme, co-designed with industry leaders, builds future ready skill sets and encourages the use of ethical AI.
Mizoram Becomes India's First Fully Literate State
In a historic milestone for education in India, Mizoram has officially been declared a fully literate state, becoming the first in the country to achieve this feat. The announcement was made on 20th May 2025 by Chief Minister Shri Lalduhoma during a special ceremony in Aizawl, in the presence of key central and state dignitaries. This achievement highlights the state's dedication to inclusive education and marks the success of the ULLAS – Nav Bharat Saaksharta Karyakram, a national adult education initiative.
May 20, 2025
India Eliminates Trachoma as Public Health Problem, Recognised by WHO
In a global health achievement, India was awarded the Certificate of Elimination of Trachoma as a Public Health Problem by the World Health Organisation (WHO) at the 78th World Health Assembly (WHA) in Geneva. This milestone reflects India's focused healthcare strategies, robust disease control programs, and long-standing commitment to eliminating neglected tropical diseases (NTDs).
WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus presented the certificate.
Kerala First State to Introduce Robotics in Class 10 Textbooks for All Students
Kerala became the first state in India to introduce compulsory robotics education for all Class 10 students starting June 2, the beginning of the new academic year. This move will benefit approximately 4.3 lakh students statewide.
The robotics module has been added as the sixth chapter titled "The World of Robots" in the first volume of the Class 10 ICT textbook. The chapter is designed to help students grasp foundational robotics concepts through hands-on learning. These activities include building circuits, working with sensors and actuators, and programming to control electronic components.
CBSE's Bharatiya Bhasha Camps: Students to be Taught 22 Scheduled Indian Languages
The CBSE is set to organise Bhartiya Samar Bhasha camps across India in all its affiliated schools. The camps will be organised this year during the summer holidays. This move aligns with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020's focus on multilingualism and cultural understanding. The camps aim to help students learn an additional Indian language.
The National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) released standardised guidance materials and a short course covering 22 scheduled Indian languages.
The camps will run during summer vacations, with flexible schedules based on local academic calendars.
NCERT will provide technical support and learning materials as the nodal agency. State Education Departments, SCERTs, and DIETs will coordinate activities at the state and district levels.
May 19, 2025
IIT Bombay to Launch First Dual-Degree Programme with Japan's Tohoku University
The Indian Institute of Technology Bombay (IIT-B) is set to mark its international debut by establishing a dual degree PhD programme in Japan. It will set up a Centre with Tohoku University in the next year (2026). Presently, PhD programme will be offered. In due course, joint Masters' programmes will be offered.
Tohoku University is a renowned and government-supported Japanese institution. This joint effort will commence with a research-focused PhD programme, with MTech courses to be introduced soon after.
May 18, 2025
IIT-Madras Launches Certification Programme in Applied AI and Machine Learning
IIT Madras, in collaboration with the ed-tech platform Emeritus and IBM, introduced the Advanced Certification Programme in Applied Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning, designed to bridge the growing skill gap between AI innovation and industry-ready talent.
The initiative comes under the purview of IITM Pravartak, the technology innovation hub of the institute, which is supported by the Department of Science and Technology, Government of India.