Latest news with #MagadhUniversity
The Hindu
2 days ago
- General
- The Hindu
From Bihar to Bengaluru: Rural Dalit women break barriers through alternative education
Phula Kumari, a woman in her early twenties, is a curriculum associate at Sajhe Sapne, a non-profit based in Kandbari, Himachal Pradesh. She's from Jehanabad, Bihar, and belongs to the Musahar community, one of the most socially deprived Dalit communities in India. 'If not for the opportunities I have now, I'd probably be married, says Phula. 'Marriage is not bad, but I wanted to work and build a career first.' After schooling, she enrolled in Magadh University, but classes weren't held due to COVID-19. 'Even otherwise, it's a known fact that the colleges here rarely conduct regular classes due to teacher shortages. Students only attend exams and get their degrees; no real learning happens,' she notes. This led her to join Sajhe Sapne, a non-profit organisation that runs year-long residential programmes for young rural women and offers courses in Project Management, Coding, and Primary Math Teaching. Women from some of the most underpriveleged communities across India who have finished basic schooling come to Sajhe Sapne's center in Himachal Pradesh to do these courses so they become working women when they leave. At the programme, the learning is not just a few skills, but also about being professional and interacting with others as one. The graduates of this programme have gone on to work in a range of sectors including startups in Bengaluru that are progressive enough to value these women bring to the table. Phula's story shines a light on the lack of accessibility, inclusivity, and the absence of skill-building in higher educational institutions in tier two and three cities and rural areas. The recent Economic Survey 2023-24 revealed that only 51.25% of India's graduates are deemed employable, highlighting a significant skills gap. This also raises the relevance of alternative educational spaces that cater to the ground realities of rural India. 'Phula was in our first cohort that began in 2020,' says Surabhi Yadav, Sajhe Sapne's CEO. Over four cohorts, 130 students have graduated. 'We aim to reinvent rural education and build agency,' she explains. Their demographic data shows 11% ST, 43% SC, 30% OBC, and 16% General/Savarna students. Access to education after school 'In villages, the concept of having or pursuing a career is almost non-existent; it's not careers but livelihoods that gain focus,' says Ms. Surabhi. After Class 12, professional growth options shrink, especially for rural women. Young women are usually presented with three options: marriage, a degree course that often fails to translate into skills and immediate employment opportunities, like factory work. The latter option can lead them into a livelihood trap, because the opportunity to grow is nil, highlights Ms. Surabhi. Some government programmes and NGOs inadvertently push rural women into low-paying manual jobs, while these help financially, they reinforce stereotypes without building agency, she adds. Navigating hurdles Most students who come to the centre face resistance at home. Surabhi explains, 'There's a lot of coercion, blackmail, and pressure from their families before they even reach us.' Sapna, a 19-year-old from Katihar, Bihar, recalls how difficult it was to convince her parents to let her go to Sajhe. 'Our family depends on farming, and so my father wanted me to work in the fields and get married.' She says that it was a difficult choice to leave, but she wanted to see the world out there. Over the last four years of running the program, she has observed that brothers are often the biggest obstacle, not just the student's brother, but also uncles, cousins, and brothers-in-law. 'They create a lot of ruckus to stop these women from leaving,' Surabhi notes. She adds, 'Patriarchy has taught brothers to protect the 'honour' of the women in the family. In their minds, they're doing just that, keeping their sisters and nieces from stepping out.' But she notes that having even one supportive family member can change everything. 'It was my bua, who is a part of the trade union, Jan Jagran Shakti Sangathan, who booked my ticket and encouraged me to go. She said she would handle convincing my parents,' Sapna said. She now interns at Tonbo Imaging and stays in PG in Koramangala, Bengaluru. To reach more students, Sajhe collaborates with grassroots NGOs across multiple states - including Nari Gunjan in Bihar, Yuwa in Jharkhand, Pradan and Synergy in Madhya Pradesh, Milaan in Uttar Pradesh, Har Haath Kalam in Punjab, Karma Marg in Haryana, Ibdata and Ujala Foundation in Rajasthan, and Atmavishwas Foundation in Himachal Pradesh - along with several other partner organisations. These NGOs help negotiate with parents, often emphasising that the program is just a year long, unlike traditional degree courses. Once students arrive, the centre's feminist leadership pedagogy helps them build confidence through peer and community support. The program equips them to challenge restrictive family narratives and broaden their worldview. Another key factor in breaking resistance, Surabhi points out, is the domino effect when an elder sister joins. Younger siblings, both in the family and the wider community, often follow. Phula's younger sibling, Sonmati, followed in her footsteps and joined Sajhe. She now works as a primary school teacher with Har Haath Kalam, an NGO based in Punjab. 'The fight doesn't disappear,' Surabhi says, 'but these small victories help young women build agency and pave the way for others.' Launching careers The organisation assists students and their hiring partners with recruitment processes. So far, it has achieved 100% internship and job placement rates along with a 75% retention rate. 'There is hiring interest from a lot of NGOs from across the regions, as well as some social enterprises and tech start-ups,' says Ms Surabhi. Some of the organisations that Sajhe alumni work for include Kochi-based Aikyam, Bangalore-based Tonbo Imaging, Gurgram-based Milaan Foundation and Delhi-based social enterprise Takachar, among others. Surabhi acknowledges that most companies require degrees for hiring, but she says, 'Hiring practices must test for skills rather than always requiring a degree. Having a degree does not guarantee that the candidate has the required skills.' The Sajhe team explains that over the past four years, they have noticed a slight increase in tech start-ups valuing diversity and hiring potential graduates. An alternative pedagogy Surabhi emphasises that true inclusivity for young rural women only happens when the curriculum, language, and teaching tools are deliberately shaped for them. So far, students have come from seven states, including Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, and Bihar, regions where poverty, gender, and caste create multiple layers of marginalisation. According to the NITI Aayog SDG Report (2023-24), Bihar ranks among India's poorest states with an index score of 39, far below the national average of 72. Uttar Pradesh scores 57. The Multidimensional Poverty Index further highlights the struggle: 33% of Bihar's population lives in poverty, followed by UP (23%) and MP (22%)—all above the national average of 14%. The Education metrics are also equally stark, with Bihar scoring just 32 on SDG 4 (Quality Education), UP 54, and MP 49, compared to India's average of 61. 'Even though we conduct an initial screening test,' Surabhi says, 'the first two months focus on foundational skills—reading, writing, and bridging the gap in Hindi and English.' Many students are intimidated by English, so the program eases them in. Traditional schooling rarely encouraged questioning, so Sajhe deliberately cultivates curiosity as a core part of learning. Language barriers extend beyond English. 'Take the Hindi word for 'entrepreneurship'—udyamasheelata,' says Surabhi. 'It's textbook Hindi, alien to daily speech. Here, we call it pehalwani, a term that embodies initiative and action.' Learning happens in circles, in groups, and through activity-based assessments instead of exams. Weekly 'pehalwani matches' let students showcase their progress. The program also reimagines professional vocabulary, like translating 'professionalism' to bharose ki kua (a well of trust) or simplifying 'deadline' into relatable terms. 'It's about crafting a language that doesn't exclude,' Surabhi adds. 'If they can't see themselves in the words, how will they see themselves in the opportunities?' Trauma-informed learning When young women from diverse backgrounds come together, conflict often erupts before bonding begins. 'The girls are great at fighting, physically,' says Surabhi. She recalls three students who came from slums, one addicted to tobacco, the others quick to throw punches. 'If we expelled students for every outburst, this program would lose its purpose.' For these women, mental health and anger management are distant concepts. 'They're already burdened by poverty, gender, and caste,' Surabhi explains. 'Punishment isn't the answer.' Instead, restorative justice guides resolutions. After fights, students discuss openly: the aggressor explains their actions, and the group collectively decides the consequences. Once, they mandated that the hitter take walks with each classmate to rebuild trust. 'Methods like this transform friction into resilience,' she says. A trauma-informed therapist, Colleen West, supports the program's curriculum and implementation. When asked how urban class and caste privilege shape experiences, Surabhi acknowledges, 'Yes, we're addressing cultural capital through our frameworks.' The Sapna Centre's mission extends beyond skills; it's also about agency. The course builds confidence and community, empowering women to claim spaces that exclude them. Internships are a key component: students secure placements independently, facing rejections and overcoming inhibitions. 'They talk to 20 people, endure 10 'nos,' then land opportunities nearby,' Surabhi notes. Mentorship also plays a role in expanding their networks. Cultural capital manifests differently across contexts. Saloni, a Dalit student from Rajasthan in the first cohort, recently built her family a pucca house, says Surabhi, 'These are some kinds of capital we are trying to build.' The percentage of people living in pucca versus kacha houses is one indicator used to measure progress on SDG 1 (No Poverty). Scaling across The Sajhe team envisions grassroots NGOs adopting their model across villages. 'The idea is to be able to host Sapna centres, where at least 20 young women are willing to gather and want to learn,' says Surabhi. A new Sapna Centre, a non-residential model, is being opened at Nadwan, Patna and will be run by a local NGO, Gram Jagat, with Sajhe acting as their learning partner, says Ms. Surabhi. The organisation now plans to move their base from Himachal to Madhya Pradesh. ' We aim to work at a district level in MP,' explains the Sajhe team. Their focus will be on the upcoming Kabil Kamao Kamia District campaign, which aims to ensure that at least 20% of young women enter the formal workforce with a steady income. 'We want to support local administration to implement schemes meant for skilling and employment of youth, and bring rural women into it,' says Ms. Surabhi. This includes providing technical advice and improving implementation efficiency for state and national skilling schemes, i.e District Skill Mission.
Time of India
3 days ago
- Science
- Time of India
Guv to inaugurate AI department at Magadh University on July 12
Gaya: Magadh University (MU) is all set to start a full-fledged department of Artificial Intelligence (AI) on its Bodh Gaya headquarters campus, offering certificate, diploma, undergraduate and postgraduate courses. With this the varsity will be the first among the state universities to introduce a science stream postgraduate course in AI. A Centre of Excellence for AI is scheduled to be inaugurated by governor Arif Mohammad Khan on July 12, the birth anniversary of the founder of MU and former chief minister Satyendra Narayan Sinha. Rajya Sabha deputy chairman Harivansh Narayan Singh has also given his consent to attend the inaugural function. Singh has also promised Rs 20 crore from his Members of Parliament Local Area Development Scheme fund for the academic and technical development of the centre. Presently, only a few colleges, including Patna Women's College, offer undergraduate courses in AI. Magadh University vice-chancellor Shashi Pratap Shahi said the academic council has already approved a 45-day certificate course, one-year diploma, Bachelor of Science and Master of Science in AI. "A detailed project report for the centre has been prepared by the experts of the Indian Institute of Technology, Patna (IIT-P). As many as 30 teachers of MU completed week-long training at IIT-P in Nov last year," he said, adding the centre will not only provide a new direction and energy to the youth, but it will also boost regional development, innovation and employment generation. "The centre will enable the youth of Bihar to play a leading role in the global technological competition. " Gaya: Magadh University (MU) is all set to start a full-fledged department of Artificial Intelligence (AI) on its Bodh Gaya headquarters campus, offering certificate, diploma, undergraduate and postgraduate courses. With this the varsity will be the first among the state universities to introduce a science stream postgraduate course in AI. A Centre of Excellence for AI is scheduled to be inaugurated by governor Arif Mohammad Khan on July 12, the birth anniversary of the founder of MU and former chief minister Satyendra Narayan Sinha. Rajya Sabha deputy chairman Harivansh Narayan Singh has also given his consent to attend the inaugural function. Singh has also promised Rs 20 crore from his Members of Parliament Local Area Development Scheme fund for the academic and technical development of the centre. Presently, only a few colleges, including Patna Women's College, offer undergraduate courses in AI. Magadh University vice-chancellor Shashi Pratap Shahi said the academic council has already approved a 45-day certificate course, one-year diploma, Bachelor of Science and Master of Science in AI. "A detailed project report for the centre has been prepared by the experts of the Indian Institute of Technology, Patna (IIT-P). As many as 30 teachers of MU completed week-long training at IIT-P in Nov last year," he said, adding the centre will not only provide a new direction and energy to the youth, but it will also boost regional development, innovation and employment generation. "The centre will enable the youth of Bihar to play a leading role in the global technological competition. "
Indian Express
31-05-2025
- General
- Indian Express
The man who brought gurbani to the masses
Padma Shri Dr Rattan Singh Jaggi, one of the most revered scholars of Sikhism and a towering figure in Punjabi and Hindi literature, passed away in Chandigarh on May 22. He was 98. Over a remarkable career spanning over six decades, Dr Jaggi authored over 150 books and became a widely respected authority on Gurmat, the Bhakti movement, and medieval Indian literature. His erudition, linguistic mastery and deep engagement with Sikh scripture earned him recognition as a literary colossus and a guiding force for generations of scholars. Born on July 27, 1927, Dr Jaggi obtained his PhD from Panjab University in 1962 for his thesis 'Dasam Granth Da Pauranik Addhyan'. He received a DLitt from Magadh University in 1973 for his work 'Sri Guru Nanak: Vyaktitva, Krititva aur Chintan'. He retired as professor and Head of the Department of Punjabi Literary Studies at Punjabi University, Patiala, in 1987. Equally at ease in Punjabi, Hindi, Urdu, Sanskrit, Persian and English, Dr Jaggi's scholarship was as prolific as it was profound. Among his most significant contributions was the eight-volume commentary 'Bhav Prabodhini Tika – Sri Guru Granth Sahib', followed by its Hindi adaptation in five volumes. His works also include 'Arthbodh Sri Guru Granth Sahib' published by the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee, and 'Guru Nanak Bani: Paath ate Vyakhya', released in both Punjabi and Hindi during the 550th Prakash Purb celebrations. Dr Jaggi served as editor of several key reference texts published by Punjabi University, including 'Punjabi Sahit Sandarbh Kosh', 'Punjabi Sahit da Sarotmoolak Itihas', and 'Guru Granth Vishavkosh'. His books 'Guru Nanak: Jeevni ate Vyaktitva' and 'Guru Nanak di Vichardhara' were both honoured by the Languages Department, Punjab. His Punjabi transliteration and translation of Tulsi Ramayan earned him a national award from the Sahitya Akademi. In recognition of his lifelong contributions to literature and education, the Government of India honoured him with the Padma Shri in 2023. He was also the recipient of the Sahitya Akademi Award in 1989 and the Punjab government's highest literary honour, the Punjabi Sahit Shiromani Award in 1996. The governments of Delhi, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, the SGPC and several universities and literary bodies also conferred honours upon him. Dr Jaggi is survived by his wife Dr Gursharan Kaur Jaggi, retired principal of Government College for Women, Patiala, and son Malwinder Singh Jaggi, a retired IAS officer. His passing marks the end of an era in Sikh theological scholarship and Punjabi literary tradition. The last prayers will be held on Saturday.
Time of India
19-05-2025
- Politics
- Time of India
Caste census aims at uniting the country: RSS functionary
Gaya: Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) senior functionary Indresh Kumar , while addressing the day-long seminar on 'religious culture confluence as the keynote speaker, said that the purpose of the caste census in the country is not to divide it on the basis of caste or merely for vote bank politics, but it is aimed at uniting the country. The event was organised at Radhakrishnan Auditorium of the education department at Magadh University, Bodh Gaya, on Sunday. "The basic mantra of unity in diversity is inherent in Indian culture. A multilingual India can communicate and will also be free from global violence and discrimination. India has rejected the mediation of other countries. Love for the nation is the main basis of creating a 'New India'. We all should love our language, caste, and religion and not hate others," he said. Magadh University Vice-Chancellor Prof Shashi Pratap Shahi, who presided over the seminar, presented a geographical and educational introduction of Magadh University. He informed the guests about how the university is progressing towards its ancient glory. Union minister of state for coal and mines, Satish Chandra Dubey, said that the British and the Mughals came to India, divided the country, and left. He appealed for a collective effort by every citizen towards a 'self-reliant India', ' Make in India ', 'startup-oriented India', and 'developed India @2047', the dream of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Efforts are being made to establish India as an undivided state, he said. SC/ST welfare minister in the state govt, Janak Ram, a special guest on the occasion, said that giving importance to national values over personal interests makes nationalism unbroken and strong. Global recognition can be achieved only by empowering the nation. Bhante Sheel Ratna expressed gratitude towards the Prime Minister for according classical language status to Pali, which he said will play an important role in making India a world leader. Vivekanand Giri of Bodh Gaya Math said, 'Nationalism is born from compassion, love, kindness, and heartfelt cooperation. Our nation is eternal and permanent.' All the guests participated in a Pancheel yatra taken out on Sunday evening from the world heritage Mahabodhi Mahavihara to the Bodh Gaya Math.
Hindustan Times
26-04-2025
- Business
- Hindustan Times
Magadh University UG Admissions 2025 underway at magadhonline.in, apply before May 2
Magadh University UG admission 2025: Magadh University, Bodh Gaya is accepting online applications for its UG courses for the academic year 2025-2029. Eligible and interested candidates can submit their applications on the official website at Candidates must note here that the last date to apply is May 2. The university is offering 4-year degree courses in the Arts, Science, and Commerce streams in line with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which emphasizes flexibility, interdisciplinary education, and academic excellence. Candidates who wish to study in Magadh University can apply for admission into B.A., and courses under the Choice Based Credit System (CBCS). Also read: Govt taking several measures to ensure employment opportunities keep growing for youth, says PM Modi For UG Arts and Commerce Programmes: candidates should have passed the Intermediate examination (I.A., or or an equivalent +2 level examination conducted by the Bihar School Examination Board (BSEB) or any other recognized board. For UG Science Programmes: Candidates must have completed Intermediate Science Examination ( or +2 Science stream only from the BSEB or an equivalent recognized board. Also read: RRB JE CBT 2 Answer Key 2025 released, download via direct link; know about objection window Online application fee for General and OBC candidates is ₹600/-, whereas for candidates belonging to SC and ST categories have to pay a fee of ₹450/-. Also read: APSC Recruitment 2025: Notification out for 32 posts of Junior Engineer under fishery dept, check details For more details, candidates are advised to visit the official website of Magadh University at
