Swati Karad Chate

The visit to Purdue University reflected its commitment to supporting students beyond academics. The university’s approach to student wellbeing addresses mental, physical, emotional, and social dimensions through layered support systems. Early outreach, peer support, and accessible counselling services contribute to a campus culture where seeking help is normal and encouraged.

Also, the integration of experiential learning environments such as the EPICS program and makerspaces was significant. Through EPICS, students work closely with communities to address real social and engineering challenges, applying their academic knowledge with purpose.

This approach aligns with our ongoing efforts at MIT Vishwaprayag University to strengthen student-centric and industry-aligned education ecosystems. Such engagements reinforce the importance of building institutions that evolve thoughtfully over time, guided by clarity of purpose, adaptability, and a sustained focus on the learner.

It was a pleasure interacting with Matthew J., Dr. William (Bill) Oakes, Robyn Jakes, and Aakanksha Desai, and engaging with the leadership, departments, and faculty at Purdue University during the visit.

Being with students is always a stress-buster for me. Their energy, curiosity, and joy are truly uplifting.

I truly enjoyed being part of TARANG – the Grand Finale and Prize Distribution Ceremony at MIT Vishwashanti Gurukul Schools. Watching our students take the stage with such confidence, creativity, and enthusiasm was both heartening and inspiring.

The presence of Shri Makarand Anaspure added a special warmth to the occasion. His simplicity, humour, and deep commitment to social causes created a very genuine connection with everyone present, making the celebration even more memorable.

It was equally inspiring to witness the journey of Ms. Ganga Kadam, whose resilience and determination continue to motivate so many. Her story is a powerful reminder that limitations never define potential.

Moments like these are a beautiful reminder of why we nurture talent and celebrate learning beyond classrooms.

My recent visit to The University of Alabama in Huntsville (UAH) offered a valuable perspective on how universities can serve as anchors of regional transformation. Built on the belief that brainpower drives sustainable growth, UAH demonstrates how higher education can shape a city’s economic and innovation ecosystem.

UAH follows a research-driven model, with multiple interdisciplinary research centres established across the campus, many developed in close collaboration with institutions. This approach allows research to move beyond individual disciplines and address real-world challenges.

These observations resonate with our ongoing efforts at MIT Vishwaprayag University to build relevant and industry-connected education ecosystems.

It was a pleasure interacting with Dr. Jason Greene, Dean of the College of Business, and Dr. Wafa Hakim Orman, Associate Dean.

The Three-Day International Workshop on ‘Electric Vehicles, Batteries and Sensors’, organised by MIT College of Railway Engineering and Research (MITCORER), was inaugurated with a focus on strengthening education aligned with technologies driving responsible and environmentally conscious progress.

Platforms like these play a crucial role in preparing students, researchers, and professionals to contribute meaningfully to sustainable innovation.

My visit to Future Schools, Johannesburg, South Africa, highlighted the strong impact of Project-Based Learning (PBL) on student development. The students displayed impressive clarity in their understanding, engaging with their subjects in a way that was purposeful and genuinely meaningful. It was equally encouraging to see teachers actively involved in the learning process, creating an environment where students thrive.

Alongside their academic presentations, the students also showcased cultural performances.

The experience reinforced the importance of learning environments that promote inquiry, critical thinking, and purposeful application. Approaches like PBL have the potential to significantly enhance the way students prepare for the challenges and opportunities of the future.

Congratulations to Dr. Sizwe Nxasana for the effective implementation of PBL at Future Schools.

Delighted to be invited as a panellist at the 10th International Research Symposium on Project-based Learning (IRSBPL) – K-12 Conference in Johannesburg, South Africa, alongside distinguished delegates from Denmark, China, and South Africa.

[Project Based Learning, Future Of Education, Global Education, Johannesburg]