Times of India

A recent Cambridge University Press & Assessment report reveals a global struggle among students with self-management and metacognition, hindering effective learning. Teachers find it challenging to cultivate these skills due to technological distractions and declining attention spans. The report emphasizes the need for explicit instruction in goal-setting, self-questioning and reflection to bridge this critical gap.

Research indicates that prolonged sitting during school impairs attention, processing speed, and academic performance. Incorporating short, purposeful movement breaks and active lessons enhances on-task behaviour and learning outcomes. Encouraging physical activity, limiting screen time and ensuring sufficient sleep collectively contribute to improved cognitive function in children, ultimately benefiting their academic success.

Harvard experts attribute children's declining focus in school to early neurological development issues exacerbated by modern factors like excessive screen time. Research indicates that attentional and reading difficulties can be detected as early as toddlerhood. Integrated interventions, early identification, reduced screen time, and executive function skill development are crucial solutions for improving focus and literacy outcomes.

Academic pressure in school, college or competitive exams often pushes students toward unhealthy study practices like all-nighters, endless cramming or back-to-back classes without rest. While these strategies may offer short-term gains, they often lead to fatigue, poor retention and ultimately, burnout.

Cambridge research indicates that top students excel not just through hard work but by actively employing metacognitive self-regulation. This involves planning study sessions, monitoring understanding and adjusting strategies when needed. This habit, observable across ages, contributes uniquely to academic success, surpassing raw ability and emphasizing smarter study habits over mere hours spent.

Harvard-affiliated research indicates that physical activity enhances learning. Studies show that exercise before school improves attention and classroom behaviour. Short movement breaks during class also boost engagement. Regular aerobic activity supports memory and brain function. Timing exercise after learning may strengthen memory. Prioritising physical activity and consistent sleep can improve academic performance. These findings offer practical strategies for parents and teachers.

Virtual study groups are emerging as digital alternatives to fraternities, offering academic and social support through online platforms. Research indicates these groups foster belonging, mentorship and peer networks, enhancing learning and career prospects. While not replacing all fraternity functions, they provide inclusive and scalable benefits, albeit with risks like academic integrity concerns that require institutional management.

Students are often told that studying longer and harder will guarantee success but research shows that not all study habits are created equal. In fact, one seemingly harmless practice is quietly draining brainpower and sabotaging learning.

Pew Research Center's studies highlight the challenges students face with digital distractions and disrupted routines, impacting their study habits. Research suggests that incorporating scheduled, device-free breaks can restore attention, reduce cognitive overload and improve memory consolidation. By taking smart breaks, students can optimise their study time and enhance learning efficiency.

Haridwar Police arrested Khalid Malik, the main accused in the UKSSSC 2025 exam paper leak, after a three-day search. Malik allegedly photographed question papers and shared them via his sister Sabia, who was arrested earlier. Authorities are probing other family members and officials. The case, booked under the 2023 Ordinance, has prompted CM Dhami to promise strict action.

Jayanta Bhattacharya, born in Kolkata, is now the NIH Director. He studied economics and medicine at Stanford. He criticized COVID-19 lockdowns. Donald Trump nominated him in 2024. The Senate confirmed him in March 2025. He now shapes US medical research. He works with Robert F. Kennedy Jr. His career combines medicine, economics, and health policy. His work highlights interdisciplinary expertise.

Following the US raising H-1B visa fees to $100,000, Canada sees an opportunity to attract skilled tech workers. Prime Minister Mark Carney has emphasized Canada's strong talent pool and the potential to retain more experts. While Canada has introduced programs and seen rising interest, challenges remain, including immigration system limits and wage differences compared to the US.

Rahul Goyal, an Indian-origin executive with a 24-year career at Molson Coors, has been appointed CEO of the Chicago-based beverage giant, effective October 1. Succeeding Gavin Hattersley, Goyal brings global experience across India, the UK, and the US. His leadership will focus on brand consolidation, global expansion, and innovation as Molson Coors navigates shifting industry challenges.

Srini Gopalan, an IIM Ahmedabad alumnus, has been appointed CEO of T-Mobile, succeeding Mike Sievert on November 1, 2025. His career spans Unilever, Accenture, Capital One, Vodafone, Airtel, and Deutsche Telekom. Despite Trump's H-1B restrictions, Gopalan’s rise underscores the value of global talent in US firms. His leadership aims to strengthen T-Mobile’s customer-focused innovation and growth.

A significant number of professors are leaving Southern US universities, driven by the restrictive political climate impacting academic freedom. States like Florida, Texas, and Tennessee are experiencing a "brain drain" as faculty prioritize supportive environments over salary. This exodus threatens the reputation and competitiveness of these institutions, potentially affecting teaching quality and research output.

The 2026 US News & World Report rankings highlight America’s top national universities, with Princeton, MIT, and Harvard leading the list. These institutions excel in academics, research, innovation, and graduate success. The top 10 also includes Stanford, Yale, Chicago, Duke, Johns Hopkins, Northwestern, and Penn, showcasing the diversity and excellence of US higher education.

Oklahoma State Superintendent Ryan Walters announced plans to establish Turning Point USA chapters in every high school, aiming to counter teachers' unions. This initiative follows Walters' previous controversial decisions, like appointing Chaya Raichik to a state committee. The move raises questions about political influence in schools and its impact on students, with details on implementation still unclear.

Harvard Business School has ended its $25 million Racial Equity Action Plan, launched in 2020 to address racial disparities. Despite efforts like fellowships and partnerships, Black faculty and staff representation saw limited progress. The school has shifted to a broader "community and culture" approach, raising questions about future racial equity initiatives and targets.

A former University of Southern Mississippi student, Rafeal Joseph, has filed a federal lawsuit against the school and a fraternity over violent hazing rituals. Allegations include brutal beatings, food deprivation, and threats, culminating in emergency surgery and lasting trauma. The case highlights failures in university oversight and reignites debate over fraternity culture, student safety, and institutional accountability.

President Donald Trump’s new $100,000 fee on H-1B visas for highly skilled foreign workers faces likely legal challenges over its authority and fairness. The surcharge demands employers pay before visas are issued, disrupting existing fees and raising concerns among businesses and immigrant advocates. Experts question whether the president can impose such a fee without congressional approval. The administration also proposes changes to the visa lottery system, favouring higher-income applicants, intensifying debate over immigration powers.