IIHEd organises Aspire India Scholars Programme

International Institute for Higher Education Research and Capacity Building (IIHEd) of JGU organised from June 4 to 14 the Aspire India Scholars Programme (AISP), Jindal Global Summer School for high school students (class IX to XII). This year’s AISP was joined by 52 students from various parts of India.

The goal of the AISP 2024 was to help students transition from high school to higher education. The immersive programme was filled with action-based experiences designed to spark their curiosity and direct them towards making informed choices about their higher educational pursuits and career prospects. During AISP, students gained first-hand experiences of campus and university life while having diverse exposure by interacting with their counterparts from different parts of the country.

The AISP curriculum provided integrated learning experiences that connects theory with practical application. Along with the project work aligning with this year’s AISP theme, the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), participants also engaged in thematic workshops, skills exposure, action labs, career workshops and industry visit.

Each thematic workshop was facilitated by four faculty members from different JGU schools. In total, 12 faculty members from the university conducted themed workshops on (i) navigating mental well-being and social justice amidst digital violence, (ii) SDGs, and (iii) sustainable cities, water and sanitation.

Students also participated in action labs on design thinking and storytelling for effective communication and engaged in the exposure workshops on light pollution, branding, calligraphy, and short film making. They were given exposure to French, German, and Spanish in the foreign language workshops. The career workshops by four AISP Ambassadors provided information to the students about new-age degree programmes, study abroad options, and various career opportunities. Students engaged in reflection activity using emotional rainbows and self-reflection where they shared their personal emotions, making friendships, and new experiences that taught them patience and pushing their limits.

During the closing ceremony, JGU Vice-Chancellor Professor (Dr.) C. Raj Kumar distributed special gifts recognising the work of 10 current students of JGU as AISP Mentors during the summer school.