A three-pronged approach to closing the department of education: How Trump and Musk could make it happen

A three-pronged approach to closing the department of education: How Trump and Musk could make it happen

In his second term, President Trump is pushing to dismantle the US Department of Education, a goal long held by many conservatives. Christopher F. Rufo, in City Journal, proposes a comprehensive plan involving privatizing student loans, decentralizing K-12 funding, and eliminating ideological influence within the department. With the help of Elon Musk and DOGE’s cost-cutting expertise, Rufo believes these reforms could effectively reduce the size of government while reshaping the US education system.

Online education democratizes learning: NIOS Chairman at the TOI RTE Online School Summit

Online education democratizes learning: NIOS Chairman at the TOI RTE Online School Summit

The Right to Excellence Online School Summit, hosted by The Times of India and 21K School in New Delhi, explored the future of digital education. Key discussions focused on strengthening digital infrastructure, improving online schooling, and integrating parental perspectives. Prof. Pankaj Arora emphasised the importance of accessibility, teacher training, and blended learning to ensure quality, inclusive, and flexible education in India’s evolving landscape.

Online education must be viewed as a means of expansion, not substitution: Ronnie Screwvala at TOI RTE Online School Summit

Online education must be viewed as a means of expansion, not substitution: Ronnie Screwvala at TOI RTE Online School Summit

The Right to Excellence Online School Summit, hosted by The Times of India in partnership with 21K School, explored the transformative impact of digital education. Industry leader Ronnie Screwvala shared insights on evolving learning models, the role of AI, and the need for adaptable education. The discussion emphasized online schooling’s potential in expanding accessibility, fostering skills, and preparing students for the future workforce.

USAID freeze: Will China trump America as the world's academic superpower?

USAID freeze: Will China trump America as the world’s academic superpower?

The US has long dominated global academia, with USAID playing a crucial role in funding education initiatives worldwide. However, the suspension of USAID funding under Trump 2.0 has left a void, which China is eager to fill. With rising global rankings, strategic academic partnerships, and growing research investments, China is challenging U.S. supremacy—but can it truly replace America as the world’s academic leader?

Elon Musk's DOGE team blocked from using student data after legal battle over privacy violations

Elon Musk’s DOGE team blocked from using student data after legal battle over privacy violations

Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) team has been temporarily blocked from accessing student data by the US Department of Education following privacy concerns. The decision, stemming from a lawsuit filed by California college students, prevents DOGE from viewing federal student aid records until at least February 16, 2025. The case highlights privacy violations and sparks debate over the influence of private-sector efforts in public education systems, with further hearings scheduled soon.

Texas targets record teacher pay: Urban educators to get $4K raises, rural teachers $10K amid 13% exodus in 2023

Texas targets record teacher pay: Urban educators to get $4K raises, rural teachers $10K amid 13% exodus in 2023

Texas Governor Greg Abbott has proposed a historic $4.85 billion increase for public education, including significant teacher pay raises, with $4,000 increases for urban schools and $10,000 for rural districts. Amid teacher shortages, the budget also aims to address special education funding inequities, expand career training programs, and extend the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) ban to K-12 schools. With a $7 billion public education boost, Abbott seeks comprehensive reforms to support both teachers and students across the state.