NEWS TODAY 6, 7.02.2025

 

AI is newest teaching assistant in many college classrooms

AI is newest teaching assistant in many college classrooms

Preetika.P@timesofindia.com 06.02.2025

Chennai : When history professor Meenakumari J wanted to make her classes more engaging, she turned to artificial intelligence. “I upload chapters to AI and prompt it to prepare mock tests. It creates fun quizzes and games that make lessons interactive. It’s a huge time saver,” she said. Like her, many educators are using AI to streamline teaching, create lesson plans and personalize learning. These ideas took center stage at an ‘AI in higher education’ conference at Wom en’s Christian College (WCC) on Wednesday, inaugurated by Thousand Lights MLA Dr Ezhilan Naganath an. More than 300 students and experts from across the country participated. 

For many professors, AI has made lesson planning and assessments more efficient. “What used to take at least three hours now takes less than 30 minutes,” said WCC principal Lilian Jasper. “We need to explore creative ways to integrate AI into teaching and identify tasks it can simplify.” AI is also reshaping how students consume information. “This is the reel generation. Our students are hooked on scrolling through content. We are competing with that,” said WCC dean of research, Shajini Judith Diana J. Anand S, an eco nomics professor, uses AI to tailor examples to students’ learning levels. “If I need an analogy to explain inflation to a first-year student, I ask AI to simplify it. For advanced students, I ask for a more detailed analysis. It’s like having an on-demand teaching assistant,” he said. Beyond teaching, AI is accelerating research by analysing large datasets, detecting patterns, and speeding up processes. But, concerns over originality and credibility persist.

 “Generative AI can fabricate datasets and mimic existing re search, making it harder to verify authenticity,” said N. Rajendran, Alagappa University former vice chancellor. He added “While AI can enhance research,it must be used responsibly.” Dr Ezhilan highlighted AI’s growing role in healthcare, where it analyses doctor-patient conversations to generate diagnoses and prescriptions. “Imagine if AI could enhance professors-tudent interactions in the same way — personalising education and making learning more effective,” he said.

‘Power to appoint VCs must be with state govt, not governor’

 ‘Power to appoint VCs must be with state govt, not governor’ 

TALKING TO TOI 

The power of appointing VCs should rest entirely with the state govt, says Prof V Balakista Reddy, chairman of Telangana Council of Higher Education. He tells Nirupa Vatyam that new UGC draft regulations are a threat to federalism and a step towards corporatisation and commercialisation of universities. 

Excerpts from the interview:

 ■Can you explain the controversy on appointment of VCs? 

As per the UGC draft regulations, a committee must consist of three members. First, a nominee of the chancellor (in most state universities, it’s the governor); second, a nominee of the UGC chairperson, and third, a nominee from university’s apex body, such as the senate, syndicate, or executive council. This is problematic as it allows the power of appointing vice-chancellors to rest with the chancellor, thereby undermining the role of govts.

 ■What is TGCHE’s stand on the stand-off between the state and Centre on appointment of VCs? 

TGCHE believes that the composition of wsearch-cum-selection committee for VC appointments, dominated by nominees of the chancellor and UGC chairman, restricts the participation of the state. Presently, the state govt forms a three-member search committee and recommends three names to the chancellor/governor, who appoints the VC after consulting with the state govt. This draft is seen as an overreach into state jurisdiction, violating federal principles and reducing the authority of the states.

 ■Why has the TGCHE questioned the new draft regulation with reference to the qualifications for selection of VCs? 

The TGCHE believes that there is a dilution in the qualifications re quired for the selection of  VCs. Candidates for the position of VC must have prior experience of the university system, an understanding of the issues faced by students, faculty, and administrative staff, as well as sufficient knowledge of academics, research, and publications. The draft regulations suggest considering candidates from the corporate sector, public undertakings, and public policy, which indicates an intention to appoint corporate managers and bureaucrats to the administration of state-run institutions of higher education under the justification of innovation and global competitiveness. 

■Are there any recommendations to deal with the Centre-state conflicts over VC appointments? 

Yes, this stalemate can be addressed by following the recommendations of the Sarkaria and MM Punchhi Commissions on Centre-state relations. The Punchhi commission explicitly said that governors should not be vested with the power to appoint VCs, as such powers are not conferred upon them by the Constitution. It argued that involving governors in these appointments could result in controversies, public criticism, and conflicts regarding the functions and powers of the governor’s office and the state govt.

 ■What is the challenge in having seasoned bureaucrats as VCs in universities?

 There are two aspects to this issue. From a constitutional perspective, the Constitution emphasises the importance of education under the Directive Principles of State Policy (Articles 41 and 45), which focus on creating a system that promotes knowledge and excellence. The role of a VC is highly specialised and requires academic expertise, research experience, an understanding of education policies, and a comprehensive knowledge of the university system. These attributes cannot be expected from bureaucrats, who receive generalist training and are neither subject experts nor specialists. From a judicial perspective, the judiciary has emphasised that the position of VC should be held by an academic visionary rather than an administrative functionary. 

■What about the process of VC appointments in other countries?

 In Western countries, the process focuses on academic excellence, institutional autonomy, and merit-based selection. For example, in the United States, the equivalent role of university presidents is filled through a rigorous, merit-driven process. A board of trustees or regents, independent from the govt, oversees the selection, often relying on professional search committees that assess the candidates’ academic and administrative qualifications. Similarly, in the United Kingdom, VCs are chosen by university councils or governing bodies, with a strong  emphasis on academic expertise and strategic vision, and minimal govt involvement.

 ■What are the objections raised by the state council when it comes to the appointment of faculty?

The council has raised three major concerns regarding the qualifications and academic credentials of prospective candidates. Firstly, the UGC draft permits appointments based on clearing NET or being awarded a PhD in a subject without having pursued a graduation or master’s degree in that subject. This creates a scenario where candidates may lack an understanding of foundational concepts. Secondly, there appears to be a dilution of the importance of research and publication. Thirdly, the definition of ‘notable contribution’ for selection and promotion is vague and appears achievable by almost anyone. 

■What are your suggestions to resolve the ongoing crisis related to the UGC draft guidelines? 

This issue can be resolved and is not as complex as it is portrayed in the public sphere. The UGC must consult all stakeholders, maintaining a spirit of cooperative federalism. This is crucial, as the states play a substantial role in achieving the gross enrolment ratio in higher education.

5 New WhatsApp features to make your messaging more engaging

5 New WhatsApp features to make your messaging more engaging

With these new updates, WhatsApp is making communication more fun, personalized, and convenient. From AI-powered chats and instant reactions to better call features and enhanced photo customization, these changes are designed to improve user experience in every way.

Written By: Saumya Nigam @snigam04

New DelhiPublished : Feb 03, 2025 14:54 IST, 

 

WhatsApp, one of the popular instant messaging platforms owned by Meta has introduced several new features for the platform. These features will enhance user experience across Android, iPhone and desktop versions. Back in January 2025, several beta features were rolled out, to make the chat experience more interactive, fun and convenient.

So, if you have not received these updates yet, make sure that you are using the latest version of the app. Here are a few of the recently added updates in January 2025.

1. WhatsApp AI Studio: Chat with AI personalities

WhatsApp has introduced AI Studio, where users can interact with AI-powered characters. From cultural icons to pop-culture figures, this feature has been designed for users who like to engage in conversations.AI Studio makes messaging more fun and interactive for anyone and everyone who is using the platform.

2. Call without saving numbers

After several requests raised on social media, finally, the instant messaging platform has added a built-in dial pad for the iPhones. This feature will enable the users to call any number directly from the Calls tab without having to save it as a contact first.

This makes one-time calls and quick dials much easier and more convenient.

3. Double-tap for quick reactionCompatible with both Android and iPhone, this new feature will let you react to messages with ease by using a double-tap gesture.

Instead of long-pressing a message, you could simply double-tap to bring up an emoji reaction carousel.

This works for text messages, media files, and even voice notes, making conversations faster and more expressive.

4. Personalized messaging: Create and share stickers

WhatsApp has introduced photo stickers and sticker pack links, which enable users to convert their photos into stickers.

This means that you could personalise stickers and share sticker packs via links with friends. Certainly, an engaging way to make chats more expressive.

5. Background effects for photos

WhatsApp will enable the users to customize their photos before sending them in individual chats. You can add background effects, filters, and other creative elements to make your pictures more engaging and visually appealing.

Heavy fog disrupts flight movement in Chennai; 12 flights diverted and over 10 delayed

Heavy fog disrupts flight movement in Chennai; 12 flights diverted and over 10 delayed

Chennai Airport sources said that the fog, resembling radiation fog, formed over the entire Chennai region due to high moisture levels and a light, variable wind pattern that persisted throughout the night on Monday.

Representational image.Photo | Express

Express News Service

Updated on:

04 Feb 2025, 11:48 am

CHENNAI: Twelve flights, both international and domestic, were diverted, and over ten flights were delayed at Chennai International Airport due to poor visibility caused by foggy weather. The airport initiated safeguard procedures around 6:06 am to address the situation.

Among the diverted flights were, British Airways flight (BA035) from London to Chennai, Oman Air flight (WY0251) from Muscat to Chenna, AirAsia flight (AK0011) from Kuala Lumpur to Chennai. These flights, along with several others, were rerouted to Bengaluru.

Additional flights diverted included, IndiGo flight (6E0531) from Hyderabad to Chennai (diverted to Tirupati), IndiGo flight (6E0344) from Kolkata to Chennai (diverted to Tirupati), Akasa Air flight (QP1304) from Mumbai to Chennai (diverted to Bengaluru), Air India flight (AI2561) from Bengaluru to Chennai (diverted to Bengaluru), IndiGo flight (6E1032) from Kuala Lumpur to Chennai (diverted to Bengaluru), IndiGo flight (6E1002) from Singapore to Chennai (diverted to Bengaluru), IndiGo flight (6E339) from Coimbatore to Chennai (diverted to Coimbatore), IndiGo flight (6E1412) from Abu Dhabi to Chennai (diverted to Coimbatore), IndiGo flight (6E159) from Pune to Chennai (diverted to Tirupati)

Chennai Airport sources said that the fog, resembling radiation fog, formed over the entire Chennai region due to high moisture levels and a light, variable wind pattern that persisted throughout the night on Monday.

AI-aided technology to monitor SSLC examinations this year in Karnataka

AI-aided technology to monitor SSLC examinations this year in Karnataka

In 2024, the KSEAB introduced webcasting of the examination from all centres. 

file photo

Jayanth R.

Bengaluru  05.02.2025

The Class 10 (SSLC) exams in Karnataka this year will be held under the surveillance of Artificial Intelligence (AI)-powered CCTV cameras, which will flag any malpractices or irregularities at exam centres.

However, not all examination centres will be watched over by AI-powered CCTV cameras. The Karnataka School Examination and Assessment Board (KSEAB) has decided to install them in centres identified as “sensitive” and “hypersensitive” across the State.

“KSEAB will take up a pilot project soon in collaboration with Microsoft, which will provide a customised software for surveillance of exam centres looking for malpractices,” said H.N. Gopalakrishna, Director, KSEAB.

During the SSLC exams of 2023, many students were debarred and over 60 invigilators suspended for malpractices. In 2024, the KSEAB introduced webcasting of the examination from all centres, which was said to have led to a severe drop in the results pushing the board to provide grace marks, indicating how prevalent irregularities were in these exams.

However, the board had to appoint staff to monitor the webcast live to flag malpractices, which is not only tedious and cumbersome but also requires huge human resources. The process is also manual, allowing for errors and discretion. To remove this from the monitoring process, KSEAB is opting for AI to monitor the webcast.

The AI software will flag malpractices or any irregularities, fed to the software earlier, from the video feed. If the system recognises any irregularity, a report on the same with photographs and video clippings will be immediately sent to the chief of the examination centre concerned, the Deputy Commissioners of the districts, and the chairman of KSEAB, among other officials. Officials can immediately rush to the spot, prevent irregularities and take appropriate action against the guilty.

Woman obtains death certificate for living husband, arrested

Woman obtains death certificate for living husband, arrested

The Hindu Bureau

SALEM 05.02.2025

A 40-year-old woman was arrested for obtaining a death certificate for her husband who was alive.

The police identified the accused as Revathi.

In October last year, she had lodged a complaint with Edappadi police claiming that her husband, S. Vijayakumar, 48, was missing.

Later, she went to Bhavani police station, Erode, and claimed that an unidentified body found in the Cauvery was that of her husband. The police conducted a probe and provided the post-mortem report of the unidentified body to Revathi. Based on the report, she obtained a death certificate, and then applied for a legal heir certificate, allegedly to sell a land belonging to Vijayakumar.

After further inquiry, the police found that Vijayakumar was alive, following which they registered a case and arrested Revathi.