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Punjab Introduces Entrepreneurship as Core Subject for Class 11 Students

Punjab has become the first state in India to make Entrepreneurship a core subject for Class 11 students, starting from the academic session 2025-26. The initiative, launched by Education Minister Harjot Singh Bains and Punjab AAP Incharge Manish Sisodia, aims to nurture innovation, creativity, and practical business skills among students.

The Entrepreneurship curriculum is designed to go beyond traditional classroom learning. Instead of conventional exams, students will be assessed through projects, peer evaluations, and self-assessment, fostering teamwork, problem-solving, and critical thinking. The goal is to encourage students to become job creators rather than solely job seekers.

Through this subject, students will explore practical aspects of running a business, developing start-up ideas, and understanding market dynamics. They will also learn about financial planning, marketing strategies, leadership, and effective communication, making the learning experience hands-on and interactive.

By introducing Entrepreneurship in schools, Punjab School Education Board (PSEB) hopes to equip the younger generation with skills relevant to the modern economy, preparing them to take innovative initiatives in their careers or start their own ventures.

This pioneering move sets a benchmark for other states to integrate skill-based education into their curriculum, emphasizing innovation, creativity, and self-reliance from an early age.

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SC Upholds Telangana Domicile Rules for State Quota Medical Admissions

The Supreme Court of India has upheld Telangana’s domicile rules for admissions to medical and dental colleges under the State quota. The ruling confirms that only students who have studied for the last four years up to Class 12 in Telangana are eligible for state quota seats in MBBS and BDS courses.

A bench led by Chief Justice B.R. Gavai and Justice K. Vinod Chandran allowed the appeal filed by the Telangana government, affirming the Telangana Medical and Dental Colleges Admission Rules, 2017, as amended in 2024. These rules had been challenged in court after previous orders raised questions about eligibility for students who lived outside the state for some period but met other criteria.

The Telangana High Court had earlier observed that permanent residents of the State could not be denied admission benefits solely because they had spent time outside Telangana. However, the Supreme Court clarified and reinforced that the four-year study requirement is valid for state quota admissions.

Senior advocate Abhishek Singhvi and lawyer Sravan Kumar Karnam represented the Telangana government in the proceedings. The court’s verdict provides clarity for students seeking admission to medical and dental programs in the State, ensuring that domicile rules will continue to apply under the state quota system.

This decision emphasizes the importance of local education criteria in state quota admissions while balancing fairness and legal compliance. Students and parents in Telangana now have clear guidance on eligibility requirements for medical education under the state quota.

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MCC NEET UG Counselling 2025: Round 2 Registration Begins

The Medical Counselling Committee (MCC) has announced the revised schedule for NEET UG 2025 Round 2 Counselling, giving aspiring medical and dental students a second opportunity to secure their seats in government, deemed, and central universities across India. This round of counselling ensures that candidates who missed the first round or are seeking better college preferences get a fair chance to participate in the admissions process.

The counselling process is designed to be transparent and merit-based, following the NEET UG 2025 rank list. Eligible candidates can register online and select their preferred colleges and courses. The MCC has made provisions to help students modify their choices and preferences to maximize their chances of securing a seat in top medical institutions.

Importance of Round 2 Counselling

Round 2 of NEET UG counselling is crucial for students who could not secure a seat in the first round or wish to upgrade their allotment to a more preferred college or course. The MCC has streamlined the process to ensure clarity and transparency, making it easier for candidates to navigate the online counselling system. Allotted seats are based strictly on merit and preferences filled by the candidates.

Final Allotments and Opportunities

Following the completion of Round 2, the MCC will release the seat allotment results, after which students can join their allotted colleges. For those who remain unallotted, subsequent rounds and stray vacancy rounds provide additional opportunities to secure admission. The entire counselling system is structured to ensure that every eligible NEET UG 2025 candidate has a fair chance to pursue a career in medicine or dentistry.

This counselling round highlights MCC’s commitment to a merit-based and transparent admission process, helping students navigate one of the most competitive entrance exams in India. Aspiring medical professionals are encouraged to participate actively and follow official updates on the MCC website to avoid missing any important notifications.

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NEET 2026 Mock Test Practice: Build Confidence with Smart Chapter-Wise and Full-Length NEET Mocks

Master NEET 2026 with strategically designed NEET mocks, chapter-wise practice, and real-time performance analysis. Smart, structured practice is now the key to achieving top scores in India’s premier medical entrance exam.

Practice Makes Progress in NEET 2026

Success in NEET 2026 is not just about hard work—it’s about smart and consistent practice. NEET mocks form the backbone of any effective preparation strategy. They allow students to revise concepts, refine exam skills, and develop accuracy under timed conditions. Platforms like NEETMOCK offer end-to-end practice with chapter-wise tests, full-length subject tests, and previous year paper simulations, giving aspirants a complete preparation ecosystem.

Chapter-Wise NEET Mocks: Small Steps to Big Gains

Dividing the syllabus into chapters and practicing each thoroughly is essential for concept mastery. Chapter-wise NEET mocks help students:

Strengthen individual concepts in Physics, Chemistry, and Biology

Track performance on each topic

Build confidence step by step

Focused practice on chapters like Genetics in Biology, Chemical Bonding in Chemistry, or Motion in Physics improves accuracy and subject-wise confidence.

Full-Length NEET Mocks: Simulate the Real Exam

After mastering individual chapters, aspirants need to test cumulative knowledge through full-length NEET mocks. These simulations mimic the real exam’s:

Time constraints

Question patterns

Difficulty levels

Regular full-length practice helps students build stamina, improve recall, and deliver consistent performance under pressure.

Previous Year Papers: Understand the Pattern

Practicing previous year NEET papers (PYPs) is essential. These papers:

Highlight commonly asked questions

Familiarize students with the NTA’s pattern

Improve problem-solving speed and reduce errors

NEETMOCK allows students to attempt PYPs in CBT mode, providing a realistic preparation experience aligned with NEET 2026’s anticipated digital format.

Online Practice Platforms: Study Anytime, Anywhere

With NEET moving increasingly digital, students must embrace flexible, tech-driven learning. NEETMOCK offers 24/7 online NEET mocks, enabling candidates to:

Revise chapters at convenient times

Attempt full-length tests on weekends or holidays

Maintain consistent practice without stress

This flexibility ensures aspirants stay prepared throughout the year, even during board exams or revision periods.

Monitor Progress with Intelligent Analytics

A major advantage of online NEET mocks is instant performance feedback. NEETMOCK provides:

Accuracy and time analysis

Weak topic identification

Personalized improvement recommendations

Analytics-driven insights allow students to focus on weak areas and make progress efficiently.

Purposeful Practice Towards NEET 2026 Success

Regular and strategic use of NEET mocks is a student’s best ally in cracking NEET 2026. From chapter-wise learning to full-length simulations and PYP practice, NEETMOCK combines all essential tools in one platform. Start today, practice wisely, and move closer to your medical career dreams with every test.

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Trump Administration Warns Universities Against Using ‘Racial Proxies’ in Admissions

The Trump administration has begun warning colleges and universities not to use indirect methods, or “racial proxies,” in their admissions processes. Officials say that factors such as application essays, geographic background, and other indicators should not be used as substitutes for direct racial considerations when selecting students.

This shift comes after months in which the administration focused on universities over allegations of antisemitism. The latest emphasis, according to federal agencies and White House officials, is on whether institutions are working around the Supreme Court’s 2023 ruling that ended affirmative action in admissions.

Universities across the country have been seeking ways to maintain student diversity while staying within the boundaries of the law. Application essays and location-based factors have increasingly been used to identify students with varied life experiences. But the administration argues that such practices may cross legal lines if they function as hidden stand-ins for race.

Supporters of the policy describe it as a logical step to enforce the Supreme Court’s decision and ensure admissions remain race-neutral. Critics, however, warn that it could limit opportunities for underrepresented groups and create new uncertainty for universities already struggling to adapt to changing rules.

Federal officials have indicated that specific universities could face investigations if their admissions practices appear to rely on these so-called proxies. More detailed guidance is expected to be issued in the coming months.

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UGC Bans Distance and Online Learning for Psychology, Nutrition, and Healthcare Courses from 2025

The University Grants Commission (UGC) has officially announced that higher education institutions will no longer be allowed to offer psychology, nutrition, and healthcare-related courses through distance learning or online mode starting from the 2025 academic session.

This decision is based on the National Commission for Allied and Healthcare Professions (NCAHP) Act, 2021, which regulates healthcare and allied disciplines.

Courses affected include:

Psychology

Clinical Nutrition and Dietetics

Food and Nutrition Science

Biotechnology

Microbiology

According to UGC Secretary Manish Joshi, any recognition already granted to institutions for these programmes from July-August 2025 onwards will be withdrawn.

This move impacts students planning to pursue flexible or remote study options in healthcare and allied fields. Institutions must now align with the new UGC directive.

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NEET 2026 Syllabus: Complete Guide to CBT Mode, Results, and Smart Preparation

Get ahead in your NEET 2026 journey with a detailed breakdown of the NEET 2026 syllabus, exam mode, result updates, and strategic preparation tips—all designed to help you succeed in this crucial medical entrance exam.

Why NEET 2026 is a Crucial Milestone

NEET 2026 is expected to witness major transitions in the Indian medical entrance landscape. With the anticipated shift to Computer-Based Test (CBT) mode, a focus on a structured and NCERT-aligned NEET 2026 syllabus, and streamlined result processing, candidates must stay informed and adapt accordingly.

NEET 2026 Exam Mode: Transition to CBT

One of the most significant changes in NEET 2026 is the proposed shift to CBT mode. This digital transformation aims to improve exam accuracy, transparency, and efficiency. To adapt, aspirants are encouraged to practice online mock tests that mirror the real-time exam experience.

Platforms like NEETMOCK offer timed mock tests in CBT format, helping students master the online interface, improve time management, and gain confidence under actual test conditions.

NEET 2026 Syllabus: What to Focus On

The NEET 2026 syllabus remains primarily based on the NCERT curriculum for Classes 11 and 12. The three core subjects—Physics, Chemistry, and Biology—continue to form the backbone of the exam content.

While there are currently no major changes to the syllabus, students are advised to stay updated with NTA notifications, as any modifications—even minor ones—can affect overall preparation.

Here’s a subject-wise overview of the NEET 2026 syllabus:

Biology: Focus heavily on NCERT-based theory. A large portion of questions are directly derived from the textbook. Human Physiology, Genetics, Ecology, and Plant Physiology are key chapters.

Physics: Understanding concepts is crucial. Emphasize problem-solving in areas like Mechanics, Thermodynamics, and Electromagnetism.

Chemistry: Divide preparation into Physical, Organic, and Inorganic sections. Pay special attention to reaction mechanisms and NCERT diagrams.

NEETMOCK: Your Trusted Partner in NEET 2026 Preparation

To stay competitive, it's essential to choose the right preparation platform. NEETMOCK offers:

Full-length NEET 2026 mock tests in CBT format

Chapter-wise and subject-wise quizzes

Timed practice sessions

Access to previous year papers in online format

By aligning closely with the NEET 2026 syllabus, NEETMOCK ensures aspirants gain the right exposure and confidence before the actual exam.

Final Thoughts

The NEET 2026 syllabus will continue to be a decisive element in every aspirant’s journey. As the exam shifts to a digital format, early adaptation to CBT tools, rigorous NCERT-based study, and consistent practice with platforms like NEETMOCK can significantly boost your chances of success.

Stay focused, practice regularly, and use the right digital resources to stay ahead in your NEET 2026 preparation.

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Education as Contraception: How Higher College Enrollment Among Indian Women is Lowering Fertility Rates

India’s population dynamics are changing—and higher education is playing a major role in this transformation.

As more Indian women pursue college degrees, especially in urban and semi-urban areas, the country is witnessing a consistent decline in fertility rates. Higher education often leads to delayed marriages, reduced early childbirth, and more women entering the workforce. The result is clear: education is becoming one of the most effective tools for demographic change.

This trend is not only a reflection of social progress but also a critical strategy for long-term economic and population sustainability.

IIT Bombay vs IIT Delhi: Which One is More Competitive in 2025?

For students preparing for JEE Advanced, IIT Bombay and IIT Delhi remain the top choices in India. Their consistent academic excellence and global reputation make them the most sought-after institutes.

Recent rankings reaffirm this:

NIRF Rankings 2024: IIT Delhi ranks 1st, IIT Bombay ranks 2nd

QS World University Rankings 2026: IIT Delhi is ranked 123 globally, IIT Bombay is ranked 129

These rankings help students evaluate where they stand—and how much effort they need to secure a seat.

What Do Opening and Closing Ranks Mean?

During the JEE Advanced counselling process (JoSAA), each program at an IIT is allotted a rank range:

Opening rank: The highest (best) rank admitted to a program

Closing rank: The last rank at which admission is offered

These figures are crucial for aspirants, helping them estimate their admission chances and prioritize their course and institute preferences accordingly.

Conclusion

Education in India is serving a dual purpose—empowering individuals and reshaping society. For women, it’s contributing to greater autonomy and lower fertility rates. For students, it offers a path to world-class institutions like IIT Delhi and IIT Bombay.

Whether you're analyzing population trends or preparing for engineering admissions, one thing is clear: education is at the center of India’s transformation.

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Preference Sheet for DU: Smart Strategies to Secure Your Dream College After CUET

From CUET Scorecard to DU Seat: How to Fill Your Preference Sheet Smartly via CSAS Portal Clearing the CUET exam is only the first checkpoint in your Delhi University admission journey. The real game begins with your next big decision—filling out your Preference Sheet for DU on the CSAS Portal.

If you’re eyeing top-tier programs like B.A. (Hons.) Economics, then your success now depends less on your raw score and more on your strategy. This blog will help you: • Understand how the CSAS Portal works • Strategically fill your preference sheet • Identify the top college for Economics in DU • Avoid common mistakes that could cost you a seat Let’s dive in.

What is the CSAS Portal? The Common Seat Allocation System (CSAS) is the University of Delhi’s centralized platform for UG admissions via CUET. It enables students to: • Register post-result • Submit personal and academic details • Fill in a course-college preference sheet • Track seat allotments across multiple rounds In other words, the CSAS Portal is the only way you can secure a seat at DU in 2025.

Understanding the Preference Sheet for DU The Preference Sheet is the list where you rank your desired course + college combinations. For example: • B.A. (Hons.) Economics – St. Stephen’s College • B.A. (Hons.) Economics – Hindu College • B.A. (Hons.) Economics – Miranda House This ranking is crucial—because DU will offer you a seat based on your CUET score, merit rank, and the order in which you’ve listed your preferences. Once allotted, if your higher-ranked options are not available, you won’t be considered for them later. So, preference order is everything.

How to Fill the DU Preference Sheet: Step-by-Step

Start with a CUET Result Analysis Check how your subject-wise normalized scores align with the eligibility criteria for courses like Economics. Some DU colleges give more weight to domain subjects (like Economics + Math), while others require a strong language score too.

Know the Admission Trends Use last year’s data to compare: • Cut-off ranks • College-wise seat availability • Reservation category trends You can use platforms like CUETMOCK to simulate your expected rank and match your score to realistic options.

Create a Tiered Preference List Organize your preferences into three categories: Category Description Examples Aspirational Best colleges, highest cut-offs SRCC, St. Stephen’s, Hindu Realistic Strong colleges, medium cut-offs Hansraj, Miranda House, Kirori Mal Safe Good colleges with lower cut-offs Zakir Husain, Dyal Singh, ARSD College

Maximize the Number of Preferences The CSAS Portal allows unlimited entries. Take advantage of this to safeguard your chances across multiple rounds.

Always Double-Check Eligibility Each college-course combo has specific requirements (like Math for B.A. Economics). Not meeting these can invalidate your preference—even if your score is high.

Top College for Economics in DU (2025 Edition) If you're pursuing B.A. (Hons.) Economics, here's a curated list of the top colleges: St. Stephen’s College • Often ranked as the top college for Economics in DU • Strong quantitative foundation and academic legacy • Offers great placements and international academic pathways Shri Ram College of Commerce (SRCC) • While famous for B.Com (Hons.), its Economics program is equally elite • Focus on policy, business, econometrics, and global economics Hindu College • Known for its vibrant academic atmosphere • One of DU’s oldest and most consistent colleges for Economics Honourable Mentions: • Hansraj College • Miranda House (Girls) • Lady Shri Ram College (Girls) • Ramjas College Tip: Economics at DU is a high-cutoff course. Even a few decimal points in your CUET score can determine which of these colleges you get into.

How DU Seat Allotment Works on CSAS Portal Once your preference sheet is submitted: • The system generates a merit list based on your CUET scores • You’re allotted a seat based on your rank and preference order • In each round, you can: o Accept your seat o Freeze it o Upgrade to a higher option • Missing the deadline can forfeit your seat, so stay alert

Final Word: Strategy Beats Score In today’s DU admission system, your preference sheet is just as powerful as your CUET score. The CSAS portal levels the playing field—but only for those who plan smartly. Whether your dream is to study Economics at St. Stephen’s, Commerce at SRCC, or simply secure the best-fit DU seat, the process is no longer about just getting good marks. It’s about strategy, sequencing, and self-awareness. So, analyze. Prioritize. Strategize. Your ideal college seat is waiting—you just have to list it right.

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IMF to Begin Talks on Pakistan's Request for Climate Resilience Loan

A technical mission from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) will initiate discussions on Monday regarding Pakistan’s request for a loan aimed at enhancing climate resilience, according to a media report.

This mission will be followed by a policy review early next week to assess Pakistan’s performance under the current $7 billion Extended Fund Facility (EFF), the news outlet Dawn reported.

Pakistan has sought $1 billion in financial assistance to address the devastating effects of climate change. The IMF’s technical team will engage with key government ministries, including planning, finance, climate change, petroleum, water resources, the Federal Board of Revenue, disaster management agencies, and provincial governments.

The IMF's resident representative in Islamabad, Mahir Binici, confirmed the engagements, stating that the discussions will span over the next three weeks. He added that an IMF staff team will visit Pakistan in early to mid-March to discuss the first review under the EFF-supported program and Pakistan’s request for support through the Resilience and Sustainability Facility (RSF).

Official sources mentioned that relevant authorities, particularly the ministries of planning and finance, had prepared documentation for the Climate-Related Public Investment Management Assessment (C-PIMA) for the upcoming budgets, in line with IMF and World Bank policy advice.

The first biannual review of the 39-month EFF has also been discussed, with sources stating that Pakistan has met all but one of its structural benchmarks so far. However, several indicative targets have been missed due to fluctuating domestic and international macroeconomic conditions. The only outstanding benchmark pertains to the required amendments to the Sovereign Wealth Fund (SWF), which was due by the end of December. However, other sub-conditions related to governance structures and financial safeguards have already been met.

Funding under the RSF is provided to countries that commit to significant reforms aimed at building resilience against climate catastrophes. The loan is repayable over 30 years, with a 10-year grace period, and typically carries more favorable terms than the EFF.

In October 2024, Pakistan formally requested the IMF to supplement its existing $7 billion EFF with an additional $1.2 billion under the RSF. The IMF has advised Pakistan to allocate 1 percent of its GDP annually (approximately Rs 1.24 trillion based on current estimates) toward climate resilience and adaptation reforms. This is in response to the country’s vulnerability to increasingly severe weather events, such as floods, and the need for sustained economic growth to combat rising inequalities.

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CBSE to Introduce Two-Tier Science and Social Science Exams for Class 9 in 2026, with Board Exam in 2028

In a significant move, the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has announced that starting in 2026, Class 9 students will have the option to take science and social science subjects at two difficulty levels: standard and advanced. This decision, approved by CBSE's Governing Body, aligns with the guidelines outlined in the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which encourages offering subjects and assessments at varying levels of difficulty.

This new approach will begin in the 2026 academic year for Class 9 students, and it will be reflected in the Class 10 Board examinations, scheduled for 2028. Sources familiar with the matter suggest that the Class 10 Board exam could either feature a single question paper with an additional set of questions for the advanced level, or have entirely separate papers for the two difficulty levels.

This shift is part of CBSE's ongoing efforts to provide students with a more tailored learning experience, allowing them to choose the level of difficulty that best suits their aptitude. The move is seen as a way to accommodate diverse learning needs and ensure that students are not limited by a one-size-fits-all approach to exams.

The decision to introduce two-tier exams for science and social science subjects is a part of CBSE's broader strategy to modernize the curriculum and assessments, in line with the NEP 2020. The policy stresses the importance of providing students with greater flexibility in choosing subjects and assessments that match their individual strengths and interests.

Under this new system, students in Class 9 will be able to opt for the standard level, which covers the basic concepts of science and social science, or the advanced level, which dives deeper into complex topics and prepares students for higher academic pursuits. The idea is to make learning more inclusive, offering a clearer path for those who wish to challenge themselves while still providing foundational knowledge for those who need more support.

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New Syrian Government’s School Curriculum Changes Spark Concerns

There is growing concern in Syria over changes to the school curriculum introduced by the country’s new Islamist-led authorities, with many fearing these modifications were made without the involvement of broader society.

The transitional government’s Ministry of Education recently shared the updated curriculum on its official Facebook page. It shows a shift toward a more Islamic-focused education and the complete removal of references to the Assad era across all subjects. For instance, the phrase “Defending the nation” has been replaced with “Defending Allah,” and other changes include the removal of topics like Evolution and the Big Bang theory from science courses.

In addition to these alterations, references to pre-Islamic gods and their statues have been removed, and the significance of Queen Zenobia, a prominent Syrian figure from the Roman era, has been downplayed. The curriculum also omits poems and content that celebrated Bashar al-Assad and his father Hafez, which were included in Arabic language courses under the previous regime.

Education Minister Nazir al-Qadri has attempted to downplay the significance of these changes, asserting that the curriculum remains essentially unchanged. He explained that no final decisions have been made until specialized committees are formed to review and revise it. Al-Qadri emphasized that the updates were primarily focused on removing content that he described as glorifying the “defunct Assad regime” and replacing it with the Syrian revolutionary flag in textbooks. Additionally, he stated that “inaccuracies” in the Islamic education curriculum had been addressed.

While some Syrians have welcomed the changes, the move has triggered alarm among civil society activists, many of whom have recently returned to Syria after years of exile. They fear the unilateral changes signal that their voices—and those of various communities—may be overlooked in Syria’s new political landscape.

As the new school term approaches, activists are calling for protests to express their opposition to any government decisions made without broad societal participation. These protests aim to assert the importance of inclusion and freedom in shaping the country’s future, especially when it comes to significant areas like education.

Despite promises from the transitional government to hold a National Dialogue Conference, where various communities, including Christians, Kurds, and intellectuals, would have their voices heard, many activists feel that the lack of consultation on the curriculum changes undermines the government's commitment to inclusivity and dialogue.

The growing tensions highlight the challenges Syria faces in its transition, as citizens wrestle with questions of freedom, identity, and the future direction of the country. The outcome of these debates will play a significant role in shaping the new Syria post-Assad.

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The Maths Queen on a Quantum Mission to Mentor Girls

Dr. Angela Tabiri, known as the Maths Queen in Ghana, is a pioneering figure in the world of mathematics. As the first African to win the prestigious Big Internet Math Off competition, she has made an impressive mark in the mathematical world—especially considering she had never initially intended to pursue math.

At 35 years old, the Ghanaian mathematician finds joy in solving puzzles and mathematical problems, with a particular passion for quantum or non-commutative algebra. In 2024, she triumphed in a global competition designed to identify the "world’s most interesting mathematician." The event, which began in 2018, invites mathematicians to compete by explaining their chosen mathematical concepts in the most illuminating way. Dr. Tabiri's win is not just a personal victory; she hopes it will inspire other African women, who have traditionally been discouraged from pursuing mathematics, to enter the field.

Dr. Tabiri is currently a researcher at the Ghana branch of the African Institute for Mathematical Sciences (AIMS), an institution that began in South Africa and expanded across the continent to offer postgraduate training and research in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). She is also the academic manager of the Girls in Mathematical Sciences Programme at AIMS Ghana, a program launched in 2020 to inspire high school girls to pursue careers in research and innovation within mathematics and related fields.

Despite the program's success, Dr. Tabiri notes that the gender gap in math is still pronounced—while the numbers of boys and girls studying math at the high school level are roughly equal, the number of female students pursuing math at the university level drops significantly. This trend stems from the misconception that math only leads to teaching careers, as well as the lack of female role models. Dr. Tabiri is determined to change this narrative and empower young girls to see themselves as leaders in mathematical sciences.

Dr. Tabiri’s journey into mathematics wasn’t a conventional one. Raised in Ashaiman, a densely populated and economically disadvantaged area of Tema, Ghana, she was one of six siblings in a lively household. While her family was loving, she sought quiet spaces to study, often retreating to the local community centre. Initially, she aimed to follow in the footsteps of her sisters and study business administration. However, her grades were not high enough for that path, and instead, she found herself accepted into a mathematics and economics program—a decision she now describes as "a blessing in disguise."

Her academic journey took a significant turn in 2015 when she received a scholarship to pursue a PhD at the University of Glasgow, Scotland. It was here that she experienced a pivotal moment while watching the film Hidden Figures—the story of the African American women mathematicians at NASA during the 1950s and 60s. Seeing the groundbreaking work of Katherine Johnson and her colleagues made Dr. Tabiri realize that her own work could also have lasting impact, even if it wasn’t immediately recognized. This film became a turning point in her life, reinforcing her belief that persistence is key.

In 2024, Ghana achieved an important milestone with Dr. Gloria Botchway becoming the first woman to graduate with a PhD in mathematics from the University of Ghana. Dr. Tabiri is dedicated to supporting other African girls and women from underprivileged backgrounds to follow their mathematical dreams through her non-profit organization, FemAfricMaths. The organization provides lessons to high school students in person and online, and Dr. Tabiri frequently shares interviews with leading female mathematicians on social media to inspire the next generation.

Alongside her work in mentorship, Dr. Tabiri is passionate about the future of quantum science and technology. Mathematics plays a fundamental role in the development of quantum technologies, and Dr. Tabiri is especially proud of Ghana’s role in advocating for 2025 to be declared the UN International Year of Quantum Science and Technology, marking the 100th anniversary of the discovery of modern quantum mechanics. The potential for quantum technologies, from quantum computers to ultra-precise measuring devices, holds promise for solving complex problems across fields like medicine, environmental science, food production, and cybersecurity.

Dr. Tabiri emphasizes the importance of positioning Africa’s youth to take advantage of these emerging technologies. With Africa’s population rapidly growing and expected to be the world’s largest workforce by 2040, she believes it is crucial to introduce quantum science to young people at an early age. To this end, she plans to organize a “quantum roadshow” to expose schoolchildren to quantum science concepts. She is also preparing for a “Quantum Hackathon” in July 2025 in partnership with UNESCO, where postgraduate students from across Africa will work to solve real-world challenges using quantum technologies.

For Dr. Tabiri, the future is clear: empowering young girls and boys, especially in Africa, with the mathematical and quantum skills they need is not just an opportunity, but a necessity for driving the continent’s growth and innovation in the 21st century. She is dedicated to making sure the next generation is prepared for the quantum revolution and beyond.

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Glasgow adds 6,000 student rooms over 10 years

Glasgow has experienced significant growth in student accommodation over the past decade, with nearly 6,000 purpose-built student rooms completed since 2015. This includes 20 student blocks, mainly located in the city centre. Despite this progress, the city is struggling to meet the rising demand for housing, as the student population has grown by over 20,000 in the last 10 years.

In response to this, Glasgow City Council approved plans last year for more than 3,200 additional student beds. However, housing challenges are exacerbated by rising rents, with the council declaring a housing emergency in 2023. Additionally, the student housing shortage is still a concern, with reports suggesting more than 6,000 students are at risk of homelessness due to inadequate accommodation.

Several large-scale developments are under construction, including a 36-storey student flat block, which will become Glasgow's second-tallest building. While some residents have expressed concerns about the high number of student flats being built, others see the developments as bringing economic benefits to the city centre, attracting young people and boosting commerce. However, experts warn that the city must diversify its housing mix and ensure future adaptability for families, as relying solely on student housing may not be sustainable in the long term.

In addition to the growth in student accommodation, Glasgow is facing broader challenges related to its housing crisis. The demand for housing has outstripped supply in recent years, leading to skyrocketing rents in the city. This trend has been particularly noticeable in the city centre, where much of the new student accommodation has been developed. In response to this housing emergency, Glasgow City Council took steps in 2023 to address the issue by reaching out to owners of over 2,500 vacant properties, urging them to bring these homes back into use.

The rise in student numbers across Glasgow's universities has further intensified the strain on housing. The University of Glasgow has seen its student population increase by more than 12,000 since 2015, while Strathclyde University and Glasgow Caledonian University have also expanded significantly. The rapid growth in student enrolments, combined with the shortage of housing, has led to the disturbing prediction that thousands of students could face homelessness if the accommodation shortage is not addressed.

Some recent planning approvals, such as a 26-storey student housing block in Anderston and the 36-storey building near Charing Cross, are part of efforts to tackle this shortfall. These developments are intended to provide much-needed student housing and alleviate pressure on the rental market, which is heavily impacted by students competing for available properties. The building near Charing Cross, in particular, will house 784 students and is expected to become a landmark in the city, contributing to the growing student population.

However, the explosion of purpose-built student accommodation has drawn criticism from some residents and local groups, who argue that the city centre is becoming saturated with student flats. A 19-storey student housing development, approved in November 2024, faced 60 objections from neighbors who argued that the area was already overloaded with student housing and that the new development was excessive.

Despite these concerns, Prof. James White, a planning and urban design expert at Glasgow University, believes that the new developments will bring positive changes to the city centre. He argues that many of the developments are located on the periphery of the city centre, in areas where the residential population is low. By attracting young people, these student flats can help energize local businesses and bring vibrancy to underdeveloped parts of the city.