US DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION
US weekly jobless claims rise labor market slows
The labor market shows signs of easing as unemployment benefits claims increase. Layoffs rise due to interest rates impacting demand, and challenges in seasonal data adjustments persist. Market anticipates Fed's potential rate cuts. Job cuts decrease in June, but higher than last year. Nonfarm payrolls data may reveal job increase. Job openings ratio remains steady, while Fed deliberates policy changes post-hikes. Continuing claims rise due to policy effects.
Studying in the US: Understanding the difference between CPT vs OPT
The United States remains a top destination for international students, providing a dynamic academic environment and diverse cultural experiences. India leads with the largest student population in the US based on F-1 visa issuances in the first half of 2024, and the US Consulate General in Mumbai anticipates a 10% increase in visa applications from Indian students this year. Beyond academics, many students seek practical work experience, which is facilitated by two US visa programs: Curricular Practical Training (CPT) and Optional Practical Training (OPT).
Federal court revives lawsuit against US government over fake university scam
US Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit has reinstated a proposed class action lawsuit involving 600 students defrauded by fictitious university in student visa scam. The lead plaintiff, from India, seeks to recover funds paid for enrollment, highlighting government's commercial activity. DHS not immune from lawsuit, marking significant legal victory.
Indian-American couple sentenced to prison for forcing relative to work at gas station
A US court has sentenced Harmanpreet Singh to 135 months (11.25 years) in prison and Kulbir Kaur to 87 months (7.25 years) for coercing their relative, brought from India under false pretenses, to work at their gas station and store. They forced him into labor, confiscated his immigration documents, and subjected him to threats, physical abuse, and long hours for minimal pay. The couple also prevented his return to India and used coercive tactics, including marriage threats and physical violence, to control him over a three-year period until May 2021.
Moving to the US: Understanding the H-4 visa for dependents of H-1B visa holders
The H-4 visa, issued by USCIS, is for dependents of certain nonimmigrant workers like H-1B and H-1C visa holders. It allows spouses and children to accompany the primary visa holder to the US and study there.
Will the issue of student loan waivers influence the upcoming presidential elections in the US?
Many respondents in a survey noted that the mounting student loans have emerged as a key election issue and their choices will be impacted. The two candidates have opposing views on this topic.
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Russia and North Korea sign partnership deal that appears to be the strongest since the Cold War
Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un signed an agreement pledging mutual aid against "aggression," signaling stronger ties amid their standoffs with the West. The summit marked Putin's first visit to North Korea in 24 years and raised concerns over potential arms deals for Russia's war in Ukraine. The agreement enhances security, trade, and cultural ties. U.S. and South Korean officials expressed alarm, and Putin’s subsequent visit to Vietnam underscores Russia’s efforts to bolster alliances amid global tensions.
Study Abroad: Challenges and opportunities for Indian students
Studying abroad has long been a cherished aspiration for many Indian students, offering opportunities for global careers and expanded knowledge. Despite the challenges posed by stricter immigration policies and increased scrutiny, the desire for international education remains strong. Factors driving this trend include the diversity of academic programs, global exposure, availability of scholarships, and access to advanced technology and innovation.
Study abroad: US, UK, Canada, Germany, Australia — which is the best country for Indian students in terms of education cost, scholarships, jobs?
Aspiring to pursue higher studies at prestigious universities like Harvard, Cambridge, Stanford, Oxford, MIT, and others is a common goal for many Indian students. However, achieving this aspiration often presents numerous challenges. Before making a final decision about studying abroad at these highly sought-after destinations, it's essential to carefully consider various factors. Let's explore the key considerations for Indian students aiming to study in these top 5 destinations.
CM Vishnu Deo Sai speaks on phone to Chhattisgarh students in Kyrgyzstan, assures all help
Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai has assured students from Chhattisgarh studying in Kyrgyzstan of all possible assistance and safe return to India following incidents of violence in the country. As many as 15,000 Indian students, including 70 from Chhattisgarh, are pursuing medical and other courses in Kyrgyzstan. The Chief Minister spoke to some students and enquired about their well-being, urging them to take care. He informed them that the Indian government is in touch with Kyrgyzstan authorities and asked them to contact the Chhattisgarh government for assistance.
Scientists call for more screening, awareness on inherited defects in anaemic patients in India
A study by scientists in India has highlighted inherited defects in anaemic patients in India. For the study, the researchers shortlisted nearly 300 anaemia cases from 2019 to 2022 after an initial screening. After excluding patients diagnosed with conditions such as inflammation and chronic bleeding, the team included 41 cases of suspected iron metabolism defects in their analysis.
US, Philippines to train Filipinos in nuclear power
The Philippines and the United States agreed to train Filipinos in building and operating nuclear power plants to boost the Southeast Asian country's electricity supply. Following a November nuclear cooperation agreement, the new deal will offer scholarships and exchange programs for Filipinos to study civil nuclear power and renewable energy. This initiative aims to develop a skilled workforce for clean energy infrastructure. Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos is determined to adopt nuclear power, including potentially reviving a mothballed $2.2 billion plant.
Responsible Innovation, how a blueprint for collaborative action is advancing global healthcare
On the occasion of the Abu Dhabi Global Healthcare Week (ADGHW), Dr. Asma Ibrahim Al Mannaei, Executive Director of the Research and Innovation Centre, discusses the UAE's prioritisation of healthcare in driving investments and partnerships focusing on advancing technology and attracting top talent and fostering collaboration with India reflecting shared challenges and opportunities in healthcare. Overall, collaboration with global partners and investment in manufacturing capabilities exemplify the UAE's commitment to healthcare excellence and innovation, while initiatives like Malaffi enhance data-driven services. Read on to discover how ADGHW aims to faciliate responsible innovation in healthcare, even as the UAE emphasises patient rights protection in an era of advancing AI and data usage.
Jimmy Carter’s life is coming to an end, says his grandson. Know about US president, who handled USSR's invasion of Afghanistan
Former US President Jimmy Carter’s life is coming to an end, according to his grandson. This is not the first time such a statement has been issued.
4% DA hike: These three allowances of central government employees will go up 25% after latest DA hike; check details
The Dearness Allowance (DA) for central government employees was increased by 4% to 50%. Dearness relief (DR) for retirees of the central government has been increased by 4% to 50% to counteract price hikes. This will result in a large increase in salaries of central government employees and pensions of retirees.
Lok Sabha election: Experience trial voting through virtual reality in Kamrup election district
Under the guidance of Kamrup District Commissioner and District Election Officer Keerthi Jalli, this initiative was inaugurated at Dakhin Kamrup College in Kamrup District as part of the Systematic Voters Education and Electoral Participation (SVEEP) initiative.
Calcutta High Court's cancellation of jobs of 25,753 candidates job spark political tension ahead of 2024 Lok Sabha polls
Calcutta High Court's cancellation of jobs of 25,753 candidates has become a major political flashpoint between BJP and Trinamool in 2024 Lok Sabha polls, with West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee urged teachers and school staff not to cast a single vote to BJP, Congress & CPI-M, holding them responsible for their job loss. Meanwhile, BJP assured legal assistance to the eligible candidates who lost their jobs due to the Bengal government not giving a list of ineligible candidates to HC.
Joe Biden cancels student loans worth $7.4 billion, 360,000 borrowers to get benefit. Will Republicans stop it?
The latest student loan cancellation program announced by the Joe Biden administration may face hurdles from two new lawsuits challenging the plan's legality. What Biden will do now? Know in detail.
US jobs report for March is likely to point to slower but still-solid hiring
A modest downshift in hiring could reassure the Federal Reserve that the economy isn't running too hot, especially if wage growth, a key driver of inflation, also slowed last month. The Fed's policymakers are tracking the state of the economy, the job market and inflation to determine when to begin cutting interest rates from their multi-decade highs - a move eagerly awaited by Wall Street traders, homebuyers and people in need of cars, household appliances and other major purchases that are typically financed.
They learnt to love maths. It changed their lives
Almost dropouts, girls studying at UP's Kasturba Gandhi residential schools have seen a remarkable turnaround in their maths and science performance after the introduction of computer-based learning modules put together by a global foundation. And that’s unlocking dreams these kids dared not see
Canada, US, Australia, or the UK: Your study-abroad paradise could turn out to be hellish
The shifting landscape of international education is impacting Indian students as they navigate challenges in traditional study-abroad destinations like Australia and Canada. Rising costs, immigration restrictions, and emerging alternative study locations are influencing students' choices for pursuing education abroad. Some of the Indian students expecting to land in an advanced country with better amenities and infrastructure might get a shock when they find even the basics can be beyond their reach.
US, Vietnamese top diplomats discuss greater chip cooperation: state department
In September, US President Joe Biden visited Hanoi and signed an agreement to elevate ties between the two countries as part of Washington's effort to counterbalance China in the Indo-Pacific.
US soil being used for terrorist activities against India: Community leaders tell DOJ and FBI
Eminent Indian Americans in Silicon Valley met with US officials to discuss terrorist activities against India and hate crimes targeting Hindus. Dissatisfaction was expressed with law enforcement's inaction against threats posed by the Khalistan movement.
USIEF announces annual Fulbright-Nehru, other fellowships
The United States-India Educational Foundation (USIEF) has opened its annual competition for Fulbright-Nehru and other fellowships for Indian citizens. These exchanges, funded by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), Government of India, and the US Department of State, aim to bring the people of both countries closer together through enriching academic, research, teaching, and professional opportunities. Indian students, academics, teachers, policymakers, administrators, and professionals are encouraged to apply for the academic year 2025-26.
Delegation from 17 US universities to visit India next week
A delegation of 31 leaders from top American universities is visiting India to strengthen collaboration and mobility between the two countries. They aim to increase the flow of students and scholars both ways and prioritize the health and safety of all students on campus.
US education official resigns over Biden's Israel-Gaza policy
Tariq Habash, special assistant in the Education Department's Office of Planning, Evaluation and Policy Development, in a letter to Education Secretary Miguel Cardona, said: "I cannot stay silent as this administration turns a blind eye to the atrocities committed against innocent Palestinian lives, in what leading human rights experts have called a genocidal campaign by the Israeli government."
US deploys cutting-edge military capabilities in Indo-Pacific, supports India's defence modernization plans
Calling 2023 a 'decisive year', the US Department of Defence, in an official release has stated that it is supporting allies and partners as they invest in their capabilities.
What's drawing so many international students to the United States?
Understanding the financial landscape of studying in the USA is crucial for prospective international students. The data indicates that the average tuition for undergraduate international students varies widely, ranging from $20,000 to $50,000 per year.
Diplomas for sale: $465, no classes required. Inside one of Louisiana’s unapproved schools
Unlike public schools, formal homeschooling programs or traditional private schools, nearly 9,000 private schools in Louisiana don’t need state approval to grant degrees. Nearly every one of those unapproved schools was created to serve a single homeschooling family, but some have buildings, classrooms, teachers and dozens of students.
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