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Ekya / December 01, 2021 Posted by : administrator

Source: Indian Express

As many as 14 districts in Karnataka reported neither new Covid-19 cases nor related deaths on Sunday, said the state health department bulletin. These districts were Bagalakote, Ballari, Bengaluru Rural, Bidar, Chamarajanagara, Chitradurga, Gadag, Haveri, Kalaburagi, Koppala, Raichur, Ramanagara, Vijayapura and Yadgir.

239 new cases, five more deaths linked to Covid-19

Karnataka reported 239 new Covid-19 cases and five deaths on Sunday, taking the total number of infections to 29,89,952 and the toll to 38,112.

The day also saw 322 discharges, taking the total number of recoveries in the state so far to 29,43,809, the health department bulletin said. Bengaluru Urban topped in the number of cases (151), as the city saw 150 discharges and two deaths. The total number of active cases in the state is 8,002.

While the positivity rate for the day stood at 0.21%, the Case Fatality Rate (CFR) was 2.09%.

Of the five new deaths, two each were from Bengaluru Urban and Mysuru, while one was reported from Belagavi.

Among the districts where the new cases were reported, Bengaluru Urban accounted for 151, Mysuru 17, Uttara Kannada and Hassan 12 each, Dakshina Kannada 11, followed by others. Bengaluru Urban district topped the list of positive cases, with a total of 12,52,831, followed by Mysuru (1,79,297 cases) and Tumakuru (1,20,891 cases).

Among discharges too, Bengaluru Urban was on top with 12,30,170, followed by Mysuru at 1,76,668 and Tumakuru at 1,19,524. Cumulatively, a total of 5,13,87,155 samples have been tested in the state so far, out of which 1,10,220 were on Sunday alone.

Pre-schools to resume classes tomorrow, first time since pandemic hit

With the Karnataka government deciding to resume classes for pre-school (kindergarten) students from Monday, private school managements are hopeful of admissions in the coming days, as no offline classes have taken place for LKG, UKG students since March 2020.

D Shashikumar, the general secretary of the Associated Managements of Primary and Secondary Schools in Karnataka (KAMS), said that most schools have started calling parents to inform them about the reopening, in a bid to urge them to send their wards “confidently”.

He noted that most loss in continued learning has been noted in this age category. “The damages caused to continuous learning are irreparable. We hope parents will consider this and uphold all possibilities of learning by sending their wards back to schools, across classes,” he said, adding that all schools were instructed to adhere to the Covid-19 standard operating procedures issued by the government.

Further, Shashikumar noted that only five to ten per cent admissions have been done so far this year. “We have three to four months to go in this academic year. Better late than never. Young brains need personal and group learning sessions that they have missed for the last 20 months,” he said.

Meanwhile, Sreepriya Unnikrishnan, the head of Ekya School in Bengaluru’s J P Nagar, said that a good number of parents of primary school students had given a positive response. “They (parents) have been busy with the preparations to send the children to school in terms of procuring uniforms and Covid-safety paraphernalia and also planning their commute to school. We’re looking forward to seeing more children come into campus and in good numbers too,” she said.

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Ekya / May 24, 2023

Fun in Sun: Ekya School Summer camps designed for children to Explore, Learn & Play

Source: Brain Feed
Summer camps are a great way for children to spend their holidays in a meaningful and productive manner. These camps not only provide a fun and enjoyable experience but also offer opportunities for children to learn and develop new skills. They allow children to learn new skills, make new friends and have fun while staying active and engaged. With this in mind, Ekya Schools and CMR NPS organized series of camps with an array of activities planned that cater to a range of interests and ages. The camps are being led by experienced and qualified instructors ensuring safety, enjoyable experience and engaging environment for children across ages. The camp began with a meaningful excursion to Munnar as a part of the Outbound Learning Pogram organized for children of Ekya Schools and CMR NPS exclusively, where children got to trek, go kayaking, watching and learning tea picking, and learning the process of tea making, enjoying the natural surroundings of tea estates, activities like raft building, watching martial arts of Kerala, etc. At Ekya Schools and CMR NPS, keeping in mind the benefits of organizing summer camps for its students, they have started offering a variety of courses and skill-based activities. Customized activities like LEGO Robotics / Coding and Robotics, Public speaking and creative writing skills, Art Courses like Drama & Speech, Theatre, Sculpturing and Art on bottle, Warli Art, Paper Mache Pots, etc. Performing arts like Hip-hop dance, Indian Modern dance, Sports activities like Swimming, Basketball, Skating, Karate, and many such personality development programmes have been a part of Summer Camps for students of Ekya, CMR NPS and others who wish to participate. Camps are held on several Ekya School campuses. The best part is that kids from any school may come to our campus, participate in camps and have a good learning and fun time by enrolling into the Summer Camps. Speaking on the occasion, Ms. Anamika Radhakrishnan, Head – Student Development, Ekya Schools said, “The summer camps at Ekya School and CMR NPS are designed to provide a nurturing and stimulating environment for children to learn and grow. Our educational programs are specifically tailored to develop cognitive and social skills and focus on physical fitness and overall wellbeing. Through various activities, we aim to encourage children to be active and engage in physical exercise, which is crucial for their holistic development. With a team of experienced and qualified educators, we are dedicated to providing a high-quality education that equips children with the necessary skills to succeed in the 21st century. At Ekya Schools, we are committed to creating a learning environment that fosters children’s holistic development.”

Ekya / May 24, 2023

Bee-lieve it! Students of EKYA School introduced to the new Bee Hotel Initiative to promote sustainability

Source: Education World
While options for summer camps are aplenty, Ekya school in Bengaluru is offering its students an innovative summer assignment- to raise bees. To encourage sustainability initiatives and promote the importance of environmental conservation, Ekya Schools has collaborated with the Ashoka Trust for Research in Ecology and the Environment (ATREE) in their one-of-a-kind ‘Bee Hotels’ initiative. Interested students from all five branches of Ekya have opted for the Bee Hotel and will be participating in the activity. These bee hotels will be looked after by the students during the summer vacation. This initiative targets studying solitary bees in Bengaluru. Experts believe that unlike honeybees, solitary bees do not build hives or display any aggressive behaviour, making it safe for children. Ekya School Byrathi hosted an interactive talk about conserving biodiversity in cities where students interacted with researchers from ATREE. Dr Tristha Ramamurthy, Founder of Ekya Schools and Provost, CMR University, said, “We have introduced the Bee Hotels as we firmly believe in the importance of transcending the limits of the classroom and raising our students’ awareness of the world they inhabit. Moreover, the Bee Hotel initiative engages the entire family by facilitating collective learning about sustainability and conservation”. “We believe that our students must understand the impact of their actions on the environment,” said Smriti Agarwal, Head of School, Ekya School Byrathi. “By implementing this initiative, we are not only creating a secure environment for bees but also educating our students about the significance of sustainability and conservation.” Students will be recording their observations on the Bee Hotel App. These observations will help further the research program at ATREE to integrate these important pollinators into urban life.

Ekya / May 24, 2023

Gautam Aravindan: A Compassionate Youth Paving the Way for Robotics With A Purpose

Source: Edugraph

The soft hum of electronics filled the air as Gautam Aravindan tinkered with his latest creation in his room. It was a 3-degree of freedom (DOF) camera positioning system for machine vision, and it was his most ambitious project yet. As just a second-year PU student at CMR National Pre-University College, ITPL, Gautam had already made significant strides in the field of robotics and electronics, driven by a passion that had sparked in him at a young age.

Recently, he presented his projects in electronics, robotics, and single-board computers at CMR National PU College. The session covered basic sensors and actuators, delved into the world of robotics using a robotic arm controlled using a Raspberry Pi and a remote control, and discussed the exciting potential of single-board computers. Gautam conducted the session to spread awareness to his peers regarding the amazing potential of the world of robots and computing and that there are no age constraints to building robots. He hoped to have inspired his peers to explore it further.

It all started when Gautam saw a robot on TV and was fascinated by its functionalities. From that moment, his interest in electronics and computing only grew, leading him to explore distinct ventures of robotics and ultimately becoming a field he wished to pursue when he grew older. With the COVID-19 pandemic keeping him indoors, Gautam utilized his time to learn the fundamentals required to build projects related to electronics, robotics, and single-board computers.

Amidst the pandemic, Gautam upskilled himself and expanded his knowledge, creating several impressive projects. From a Laser Security system for safety purposes to a reverse parking system using a Raspberry Pi single-board computer, he had done it all. He had even created several 3-D printed and designed home-based products, such as laptops and mobile stands.

During his journey, Gautam encountered various challenges that strengthened his persistence and determination to achieve his goals. For example - Amid the pandemic, when he couldn't access the required components for his projects, he dismantled his old toys and repurposed them for his work. And with every challenge after that, Gautam's unwavering dedication towards his projects sharpened his problem-solving abilities.

Amongst his numerous projects, Gautam had a particular social concern he wished to address using robotics and electronics - the growing necessity for elderly care. Gautam believes these fields have a wide range of applications and could be used to solve several real-world problems and assist in research ventures. He hopes to address this issue by building a robotic companion for the elderly based on their respective needs.

For people interested in learning more about robotics, technology, and computers, here’s what Gautam suggests - “Explore these ventures in-depth using the Internet. Take advantage of e-learning platforms that offer paid and free courses with certification. Get hands-on exposure by building projects - using beginner electronics kits which are easily accessible on e-commerce platforms such as Amazon, Flipkart, etc”.

Gautam Aravindan's dedication to electronics, robotics, and single-board computers is impressive, and his work is an inspiration to many. His passion for these fields has led him to undertake several impressive projects and has given him a broader perspective on the role of these technologies in society. His work on building a robotic companion for the elderly is a testament to his commitment to solving real-world problems through technology. Gautam's journey in this field is one to watch out for, and we look forward to seeing what he accomplishes next.

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ABCD Guide to Wellbeing During Pandemic

Source: Higher Education Digest

Anushree CN, Counseling Specialist at Ekya Schools, Bangalore is an ICF certified Coach and certified counselor. She has over 10 years of Corporate experience in leadership and executive roles across various verticals including Operations/ Administration/ Finance/Human Resources in Automobile, IT, Media and Hospitality sectors. Inspired by Maria Montessori’s contributions to the world, she has completed her Diploma in Montessori education as well. She is working towards building her life in teaching, counseling, mentoring and coaching specifically focused on parenting and empowering children to unleash their true potential.

Mental Health is the foundation for overall well-being. The Dalai Lama says – “A disciplined mind leads to happiness, and an undisciplined mind leads to suffering”. This quote holds good for all ages. It helps in achieving developmental milestones which further helps children to acquire emotional wellbeing and social skills.

It is believed that in India every 7th person suffers from some form of mental condition/ disorder. The Pandemic has posed fresh challenges to Education as a whole as well. In tweens and teens especially there is a rise in screen time, social isolation, fear, anxiety, depression, becoming a victim of bullying due to the lockdown. Covid 19 was not only a stress starter but also had negative psychological effects on the students.

Parents are also feeling burdened and seem to be struggling to find a work-life balance. They are finding themselves in a position of helplessness as they see their children go through the tough phase. Hence, it is of utmost importance to become aware of how to be emotionally healthy.

Children are the world’s most valuable resource. They are the foundation of our nation’s future. As a parent, teacher and caretaker, it is essential to look after them and provide utmost care and support. The following ABCD guide will help students overcome the situation and ensure their complete well-being.

Always be patient – Remember that some students need more help and support. Be gentle and approach with calm behaviour, show that you are trying to help them and be very patient.

Be alert for any behaviour change – One of the most important duties of a teacher is to identify the change of behaviour in the students. Slow learning, inactive in class, missing out on class, failing to deliver assignments and remaining quiet are some of the signs signalling that they must be going through some anxiety or stress. You may seek a counsellor’s support in this case.

Communicate – It is one of the best solutions. Listen attentively to their problems and help them understand the situation. Be supportive. This will help build their resilience. They are curious and they will get scared easily of the unknown. Reassure children about their safety and well-being. Explain to them about the situation and the virus, give honest and accurate age-appropriate information. Also, encourage them to share their stories and let them understand the joy of sharing and caring.

Do activities together – Teamwork is dream work. A simple thing such as meditation for a minute before the class commences is helpful to de-stress the mind. Along with learning, do activities together that promote mental health and bring a balance to the mind, body and soul like dancing, cooking, reading, take breaks in between occasionally.

Additionally, you could practice the following as well –

Be mindful – Being aware of what is happening within you e’g – your thoughts and emotions and also what is happening around you?

Empathy – Put yourself in the place of the other person (start by being a good listener). This will help in connecting better with your children.

Establishing healthy routines – A regular routine eases your brain activity and reduces stress so have some activities that you can do with your family and on your own regularly.

Spaces – Provide adequate space to your children especially the tweens and teens. Give them space to express their thoughts, feelings and emotions without fear of judgement.

Normalizing Emotions – No emotion is good or bad. They need to be taught that all emotions are ok to be felt, it is how they respond to such thoughts & feelings that are important. This will create greater self-acceptance and in turn, their self-worth and self-esteem will grow. The best way to teach is to be a role model and accept all your emotions as is and respond instead of reacting.

Constructive Challenges – From time to time if students are given constructive challenges that make them think out of the box and come up with solutions it will help in their brain development and sharpen their intelligence. It is also a good way to keep them occupied.

Seeking Support – Do not hesitate to reach out to your confidant, friend, Counselor when you or your children need support.

Last but not the least, “You, yourself, as much as anybody in the entire universe, deserve your love and affection.” — Buddha. As caretakers ensure you care for yourself as well. Ensure you get proper rest and maintain a healthy lifestyle as well.

Stay safe and maintain social distance when you step out.

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Students return amid strict safety measures

Source: Deccan Herald

Most schools in the city have resumed offline classes while offering online classes at the same time. Schools have been cautious and have chosen to open the classes in phases. While some schools have permitted only students from higher classes to join back, others have allowed primary classes till middle school to come in.

The National Public School (NPS), Kalkere, recently opened classes 9 and 11. The school management is not looking at having primary classes on campus soon because parents are still apprehensive of sending their wards. Shyla Purushotam, principal, NPS Kalkere, tells Metrolife, “Only 50 per cent of the students from higher classes are on campus. We also have the option of online classes and some of them have opted for that. We will slowly start classes 7 and 8, but this will be done in phases.

Shyla says wearing a mask in the school is mandatory at all times and social distancing within the classrooms (in terms of seating arrangements) and on the campus are strictly enforced. “The temperature of every student is checked before they enter the campus,” she adds.

But enforcing Covid-appropriate behaviour on campus has become a huge challenge. With the staff-student ratio still weak, enforcing the rules requires additional effort, says Sreepriya Unnikrishnan, head of school, Ekya School, JP Nagar.

“It’s not like before. The process of getting back to school has changed. It starts with a consent form and a letter of declaration stating that all the family members are vaccinated. A temperature check is done at the entrance and recorded, and inside classrooms, teachers are required to keep a watch on them at all times,” she says.

A similar protocol is followed at Greenwood High International School, Varthur, says Aloysius D’Mello, principal. While getting the students to wear masks and use sanitisers regularly is easy, it is the social distancing part that is a challenge, he tells Metrolife.

A similar protocol is followed at Greenwood High International School, Varthur, says Aloysius D’Mello, principal. While getting the students to wear masks and use sanitisers regularly is easy, it is the social distancing part that is a challenge, he tells Metrolife.

A similar protocol is followed at Greenwood High International School, Varthur, says Aloysius D’Mello, principal. While getting the students to wear masks and use sanitisers regularly is easy, it is the social distancing part that is a challenge, he tells Metrolife.

“We’re social animals, social distancing is not something we’re in sync with. We try to ensure all students follow it but they’re kids after all,” he adds.

The staff shortage has been a major issue post the second wave of Covid-19 and schools have been forced to function with limited classes.

“Many teachers have not been able to come back for offline classes for various reasons. But now, as we’re seeing a good turn out of students, we’re looking to recruit more staff,” adds Sreepriya.

Hybrid classes, a challenge

Hybrid classes require teachers to conduct classes both online and offline. “We have already been conducting hybrid classes to ensure the education of the students, who aren’t attending offline classes, is not affected,” says D’Mello.

While transitioning back to offline classes is already a challenge, the added pressure of hybrid classes is a worrisome situation for teachers. Sreepriya agrees and says, “Many parents are still worried about sending kids back to school, especially kids in the grades 1 to 5. So we need to provide the option of hybrid classes. This will be new ground for us.” Hence, the school is postponing the plans to reopen classes 1 to 5.

Suseela Santhosh, director, Vishwa Vidyapeeth, Singanayakanahalli, also expresses concern regarding hybrid teaching. “Giving attention to both the students in class and those who are at home, online, is going to be a real challenge for teachers. It will become very hectic,” she tells Metrolife.

She believes it’s time for kids to return to school. “This will not only help improve their academics but also have a positive impact on their confidence and mental health,” she says.

Even Shyla counts hybrid teaching as their biggest challenge right now. “Teachers interact with both sets of students to make sure they understand. The last few minutes are always reserved for clearing doubts and taking questions, if any, from those attending online classes,” she explains the process.

She hopes the vaccination for children hits the market soon. “Parents are apprehensive about sending their children to school because there’s no vaccination yet. We hope at least one dose is made available to the children. This will offer some protection,” adds Shyla.  

Parents are divided

Parents across the city have taken sides and signed the consent forms sent out by schools, either agreeing to send their children for offline classes or giving consent to continue in the online mode.

Roopa Sebastian, an IT professional and mother of a class 12 student, says that she was happy to let her ward attend offline classes.

A resident of Horamavu, Roopa says “This age group is old enough to follow Covid guidelines and understand the importance of wearing a mask at all times and maintaining social distance. Our son has seen how strict we are at home and he has been tuned to follow all guidelines. We also make sure he takes enough precautions after he returns because we have aged people at home and we don’t want him bringing any possible infections.”

She feels that children will also have to learn how to live with the virus.  

However, Ayesha Jameel is not keen on sending her teenage son back to school, fearing a lack of protocol on the school premises.

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