A recent study has highlighted the transformative impact of empathy education on student behaviour and emotional awareness. The research, involving 900 students across six countries, found that a short-term empathy programme led to significant positive changes in students’ conduct, emotional literacy, and cultural curiosity.

The study evaluated the “Empathy Programme,” a term-long course developed by Empathy Studios, a UK-based organization specializing in empathy education. The programme, which utilizes video-led lessons and interactive activities, was assessed with the support of academics from the Faculty of Education at the University of Cambridge.

Empathy Studios, founded by former science teacher Ed Kirwan, aims to foster empathy in students aged five to 18 through thought-provoking films and discussions. Their annual “Empathy Week,” which offers films, resources, and events free of charge, has reached 1.3 million students globally.

Survey data from 10 participating schools revealed that students’ empathy scores increased from an average of 5.55 to 7, while behaviour scores improved from 6.52 to 7.89 over a 10-week period. Teachers reported that the programme had a notable impact on classroom dynamics, with one primary school teacher noting a reduction in the need for parental interventions.

Feedback from students also reflected positive outcomes, with one student commenting, “I think that everyone in the class has become kinder.”

Ed Kirwan, founder of Empathy Studios, emphasized the programme’s success in teaching students to appreciate and celebrate differences. “The programme’s success lies in teaching students to celebrate difference, which changes their wellbeing and behavior,” Kirwan said. “There’s never an excuse for poor behavior, but often a reason, which greater mutual understanding can potentially address.”

Survey data from 10 participating schools revealed that students’ empathy scores increased from an average of 5.55 to 7, while behaviour scores improved from 6.52 to 7.89 over a 10-week period

Dr. Helen Demetriou, a specialist in empathy education at the University of Cambridge who supported the evaluation, highlighted the programme’s effectiveness. “The findings show that a fairly simple, film-based programme can raise pupils’ empathy levels, enhancing their understanding of themselves, others, and global issues,” she stated. “That supports a more complete learning experience, developing social and emotional skills that we know contribute to improved behavior and more engaged learning.”

The study’s results come at a time of increasing societal division, with Kirwan calling for greater empathy education as a foundation for social cohesion. “If the new government is serious about curriculum reforms that prepare young people for life and work, we must ensure that schools equip them to understand, be curious about, and listen to each other, even in moments of disagreement,” he urged.

The Empathy Programme’s findings underscore the importance of incorporating empathy education into school curricula to foster a more understanding and connected generation.

In a significant acknowledgment of academic excellence, the latest ranking from the government agency has unveiled India’s top ten universities, underscoring the country’s rich tradition of higher education. Leading the list is the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) in Bengaluru, which continues to set the benchmark for research and innovation since its establishment in 1909.  The universities are listed by the National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF), which outlines a methodology to rank institutions across the country.

The Indian Institute of Science, located in Karnataka’s capital, Bengaluru, has been ranked number one for its unparalleled contributions to science and technology. Known for its cutting-edge research and world-class faculty, IISc’s rigorous academic environment fosters innovation and discovery, making it a premier choice for students and researchers alike.

Following closely is Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) in New Delhi, which has secured the second spot. Established in 1969, JNU is renowned for its strong emphasis on social sciences, humanities, and its vibrant intellectual culture. The university has consistently been at the forefront of academic and research achievements, contributing significantly to policy discussions and social discourse.

The third position is held by Jamia Millia Islamia, also in Delhi. Founded in 1920, this institution has grown into a leading center for research and education across various disciplines, including engineering, humanities, and social sciences. Jamia Millia Islamia’s commitment to inclusivity and academic excellence has solidified its reputation as a top-tier university.

Manipal Academy of Higher Education, established in 1993 and located in Manipal, Karnataka, is ranked fourth. This institution has gained recognition for its diverse academic programs and global outlook, attracting students from across the globe. Its emphasis on holistic education and research excellence has earned it a prominent place in the rankings.

Banaras Hindu University (BHU), founded in 1916 and situated in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, occupies the fifth position. With its long history and strong emphasis on traditional and modern disciplines, BHU continues to be a beacon of academic and cultural heritage.

The University of Delhi, another top performer, is ranked sixth. Established in 1922, this institution is celebrated for its comprehensive range of programs and vibrant campus life. It has been a significant player in shaping India’s educational landscape.

Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham, founded in 2003 and located in Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, is ranked seventh. The university’s commitment to interdisciplinary research and innovation has contributed to its impressive standing in the rankings.

Aligarh Muslim University (AMU), which was established in 1920 in Aligarh, Uttar Pradesh, holds the eighth spot. AMU’s focus on providing quality education across various fields has cemented its position as a leading institution.

Jadavpur University in Kolkata, West Bengal, is ranked ninth. Since its inception in 1955, Jadavpur University has been recognized for its diverse academic programs and research initiatives.

Rounding out the top ten is Vellore Institute of Technology (VIT), founded in 1984 in Vellore, Tamil Nadu. VIT’s emphasis on engineering and technology has propelled it into the top ranks, reflecting its growing influence and global reach.

These rankings highlight the diverse strengths and contributions of India’s leading universities, showcasing their pivotal role in advancing education and research in the country.

In the India Rankings 2024, the Indian Institute of Technology Madras has continued its impressive streak, retaining the top spot in the Overall Category for the sixth consecutive year (2019-2024) and in Engineering for the ninth consecutive year (2016-2024). This achievement underscores IIT Madras’s consistent excellence in education and research. The “India Rankings” refers to a set of annual rankings released by the National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF) of India. NIRF is an initiative by the Ministry of Education, Government of India, to rank institutions across various categories based on parameters like teaching, learning, and resources; research and professional practices; graduation outcomes; outreach and inclusivity; and perception.

The rankings also reveal a diverse representation in the Top 100 Overall category. This list includes 23 state public universities, 22 private deemed universities, 16 IITs, 9 NITs, 7 central universities, 7 private universities, 4 each of AIIMS, IISERs, and government deemed universities, 3 other CFTIs, and 1 college.

The Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bengaluru, has maintained its leadership position in the Universities Category for the ninth year running (2016-2024). Additionally, IISc has topped the Research Institutions Category for the fourth consecutive year (2021-2024).

In the field of management, the Indian Institute of Management Ahmedabad (IIM Ahmedabad) has retained its top position for the fifth consecutive year (2020-2024). It was among the top two in the Management subject rankings from 2016 to 2019.

The All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi, has continued to dominate the Medical category, securing the top position for the seventh year in a row (2018-2024). Despite this, AIIMS has slipped to the 7th position in the Overall category, down from 6th place in 2023.

Jamia Hamdard, New Delhi, has reclaimed the top spot in the Pharmacy category this year. It was previously ranked first for four consecutive years (2019-2022) and second in 2018 and 2023.

Hindu College has ascended to the number one position among Colleges for the first time, replacing Miranda House, which held the top spot for seven years (2017-2023). Hindu College had been ranked second in 2019, 2022, and 2023, and third and fourth in earlier years.

In Architecture and Planning, IIT Roorkee has maintained its first-place ranking for the fourth consecutive year (2021-2024), having been second from 2018 to 2020.

The National Law School of India University (NLSIU), Bengaluru, continues to lead in the Law category for the seventh consecutive year (2018-2024).

Delhi-based institutions have once again showcased their dominance in the Colleges category, with six of the top ten colleges located in the capital city.

The Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Chennai, has secured the top position in the Dental subject for the third consecutive year.

The Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi, has topped the Agriculture and Allied Sectors category for the second consecutive year.

In a notable addition, Anna University, Chennai, has topped the newly introduced State Public Universities Category. Similarly, Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU), New Delhi, leads the newly established Open Universities Category.

The Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur has been recognized for its innovation efforts, topping the Innovation category. Additionally, Symbiosis Skill and Professional University (SSPU), Pune, leads the newly ranked Skill Universities category.

These rankings reflect the dynamic nature of higher education in India, highlighting the continued excellence of established institutions while also recognizing emerging leaders in various fields.