May 19, 2025
Today's education news covers a range of important topics, from a global perspective on gender disparity in STEM fields to crucial updates for law aspirants, accessible online learning resources, and a health-focused initiative in CBSE-affiliated schools. A UNESCO report highlights the persistent underrepresentation of women in STEM, while CLAT 2025 scorecards are now available. NCERT is offering a plethora of free online courses, and CBSE is directing schools to establish 'sugar boards' to promote healthier eating habits. Let's delve into these key developments.
UNESCO Report Reveals Persistent Gender Gap in STEM Graduates
A recent UNESCO report has highlighted a concerning lack of progress in gender parity within Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) fields globally. The study reveals that women constitute only 35% of STEM graduates worldwide, a figure that has remained stagnant over the past decade. This lack of improvement underscores the persistent systemic barriers and societal biases that continue to deter women from pursuing and succeeding in these crucial disciplines. The report emphasises the urgent need for targeted interventions and policy changes to encourage greater female participation in STEM education and careers, as their underrepresentation has significant implications for innovation, economic growth, and addressing global challenges. The findings call for a renewed focus on creating inclusive learning environments and challenging gender stereotypes from an early age.
CLAT 2025 Scorecards Released, Counselling Registration Open
Good news for candidates who appeared for the Common Law Admission Test (CLAT) 2025: the scorecards have been officially released today, May 19, 2025. Following the revised result declaration timeline, the Consortium of National Law Universities (NLUs) has now made the individual scores available for candidates to download from the official CLAT website. Simultaneously, the registration window for the CLAT 2025 counselling process has also opened and will remain active until May 21, 2025. All candidates who wish to participate in the admission process for undergraduate and postgraduate law programs at the participating NLUs must register within this timeframe. The Consortium has also announced that the first indicative allotment list for seat allocation will be published on May 26, 2025. Candidates are advised to complete their counselling registration promptly and keep an eye on the official website for further updates regarding the counselling schedule and seat allotment.
NCERT Offers 28 Free Online Courses for Classes 11-12 on SWAYAM
In a significant boost for accessible learning, the National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) has launched an impressive array of 28 free online courses for students of Classes 11 and 12. These courses are available on the SWAYAM (Study Webs of Active-Learning for Young Aspiring Minds) portal, a Government of India initiative aimed at providing quality education online. The diverse range of subjects offered includes Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, Biology, History, Political Science, Economics, and many more. This initiative aims to provide students with supplementary learning resources, help them prepare for their board examinations, and facilitate a deeper understanding of various subjects at the higher secondary level. By leveraging the SWAYAM platform, NCERT is making quality educational content available to a wider audience, breaking down geographical and financial barriers to learning. Students can enrol in these courses for free and access comprehensive study materials and video lectures.
CBSE Directs Schools to Set Up 'Sugar Boards' to Curb High Sugar Intake
In a proactive move to promote healthier eating habits among school children, the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has directed all its affiliated schools to establish 'sugar boards'. These boards are envisioned as informative displays within school premises that will highlight the harmful effects of excessive sugar consumption and raise awareness about healthier alternatives. The directive encourages schools to actively educate students about the risks associated with high sugar intake, such as obesity, diabetes, and other related health issues. The 'sugar boards' are expected to feature information on the sugar content of common foods and beverages, along with suggestions for healthier snack and meal options. This initiative reflects CBSE's broader commitment to the holistic development and well-being of students, extending beyond academic learning to encompass health and nutrition. Schools are expected to implement this directive and integrate awareness about healthy eating into their regular activities.
In Conclusion
Today's education news presents a multifaceted view of the current landscape. The UNESCO report serves as a stark reminder of the persistent gender gap in STEM fields globally, urging renewed efforts for inclusivity. For CLAT aspirants, the release of scorecards and the commencement of counselling registration mark a crucial stage in their academic pursuits. NCERT's offering of free online courses on SWAYAM provides valuable and accessible learning resources for higher secondary students. Finally, CBSE's initiative to establish 'sugar boards' in schools underscores the growing emphasis on student health and well-being within the education system. These diverse stories collectively highlight the ongoing efforts to address challenges, provide opportunities, and promote holistic development in the education sector.