Times of India

BSSC 2nd Inter Level vacancy 2025: The Bihar Staff Selection Commission (BSSC) has reopened applications for the 2nd Inter Level Recruitment 2025, increasing the total vacancies to 23,175. Originally announced for 12,199 posts, an additional 10,976 posts have now been added. Applicants who previously applied need not reapply. The recruitment process includes a preliminary exam, main exam, and skill test. Interested candidates can apply online at www.onlinebssc.com by following the prescribed steps and paying an application fee of Rs 100.

American schools face a challenge as a new H-1B visa policy introduces a hefty fee for international teachers. This move could significantly impact districts relying on these educators for science, math, and special education. Schools may struggle to fill critical roles, affecting student learning. The future of specialized instruction hangs in the balance as legal battles commence.

Amazon is planning a new round of corporate layoffs, with its human resources unit, PXT, expected to be the most affected, according to Fortune. The job cuts come as the company significantly increases investment in AI infrastructure, aiming to improve internal efficiency and external offerings. CEO Andy Jassy indicated AI could reduce overall workforce needs. Despite this, Amazon will hire 250,000 seasonal workers across its US logistics network ahead of the holiday period.

The CTET December 2025 notification is anticipated shortly on ctet.nic.in, marking the start of registration for aspiring teachers. This exam is crucial for teaching positions in classes 1-8, with eligibility criteria and exam details to be released soon. The certificate, valid for a lifetime, requires candidates to meet specific educational qualifications.

The Trump administration has laid off 466 US Education Department employees, significantly impacting the civil rights and special education offices. Key divisions overseeing protections for disabled students and funding for low-income pupils were gutted, with OSEP seeing a 95% staff reduction. Civil rights oversight has also been weakened. The cuts, described as political retaliation for a government shutdown, raise concerns over the department's ability to enforce federal education laws, as reported by The New York Times.

Federal funding cuts are hitting American community colleges hard. Millions in grants for institutions serving Hispanic and minority students have been eliminated. These funds supported crucial programs like tutoring and academic counseling. Colleges now face difficult choices, potentially impacting student services and program continuity. Many institutions are seeking alternative funding to keep vital student support systems running.

The Georgia Department of Education has released its 2025 lists of Distinguished and Reward Title I K-12 schools, recognising the highest-performing and most improved institutions. The lists highlight schools excelling in English Language Arts and maths across the state, including several from South Georgia. State School Superintendent Richard Woods praised the schools’ dedication. Parents can check if their child’s school made the prestigious lists reflecting academic excellence and growth.

New York City's high school admissions involve navigating DOE applications, the SHSAT, and selective programmes. Families must research schools early, attend tours, and use MySchools to rank unlimited programmes. Screening includes GPAs, essays, auditions, and diversity initiatives. Understanding acceptance odds, gender imbalances, and academic quality through CCR rates helps families make informed decisions before the December deadline.

California lawmakers are considering a bill to combat antisemitism in K-12 schools, establishing an Antisemitism Prevention Coordinator and mandating teacher training. Supporters cite rising incidents and the need for clear policies to protect Jewish students. Critics, however, express concerns that the bill's broad definition of antisemitism could stifle free speech and classroom discussions on complex political issues.

The University of Utah is launching the Utah Promise scholarship in Fall 2026, offering full tuition and mandatory fees to first-time undergraduates with family incomes and assets under $100,000. This initiative aims to expand higher education access for working and middle-income families, ensuring financial constraints don't hinder qualified students from earning a degree.

A RAND Corporation survey reveals that female teachers in US schools report significantly worse work-life balance than male colleagues. Rigid schedules, greater household duties, and limited personal time contribute to the disparity. Women also report higher fatigue and more emotional stress. Compared to other professionals, teachers have fewer benefits and more domestic burden. The findings suggest a pressing need for improved flexibility and support in schools, according to data shared by The 74 Million.

For decades, U.S. and Chinese researchers collaborated openly, fueling global innovation. But as reported by the Associated Press, Washington now scrutinizes these ties, warning that China may exploit them to advance military technology. Lawmakers are pushing stricter oversight, while experts caution that excessive restrictions could stifle U.S. scientific progress, creating a delicate balance between security and innovation.

American students are increasingly turning to AI for emotional support, companionship, and even romantic connections. A Center for Democracy & Technology survey found nearly one in five students reported romantic interactions with AI, while 42 percent used it for friendship or companionship. While AI offers comfort and accessibility, overreliance risks weakening social skills and authentic human relationships

Billionaire Stephen A. Schwarzman, co-founder of Blackstone Group, has reportedly stepped in to mediate between Harvard University and allies of former President Donald Trump, The New York Times and The Boston Globe reported. His quiet diplomacy seeks to ease donor tensions and political strain, underscoring how money and influence increasingly shape America’s academic and political landscapes.

American students are increasingly turning to AI for academic and personal support, often replacing conversations with teachers and parents. A survey by the Center for Democracy & Technology shows that while AI aids learning, it risks weakening critical thinking, problem-solving, and human connection. Students must use AI thoughtfully to enhance, not replace, real engagement and independent reasoning.

A groundbreaking Canadian study has unveiled an alarming link between children’s screen time and their academic decline. Tracking over 5,000 students for 15 years, researchers found that each additional hour before a screen can lower grades by up to 10%, particularly in maths and reading. The findings warn that digital convenience may be quietly eroding cognitive growth, focus, and problem-solving abilities—raising urgent questions about the long-term cost of early digital immersion.

Recent US Department of Education layoffs have slashed special education and civil rights staff, leaving programs like OSEP and OCR critically understaffed. Federal grant management, compliance oversight, and student support risk disruption. With nearly half the agency cut, educators and students face uncertainty, threatening progress in literacy, mental health, and equity initiatives nationwide.

The Staff Selection Commission (SSC) will release the provisional answer key for the CGL 2025 Tier 1 exam on October 15. Over 13.5 lakh candidates appeared across 255 centres. Aspirants can raise objections with valid evidence, which will be reviewed by experts. The final key will determine progression to the next stage, making every mark and objection crucial.

The Assam Public Service Commission (APSC) has released the Junior Engineer (Civil) result 2025 for 650 posts under PWRD and Public Works (Building & NH) Department. Conducted on July 20, the OMR-based screening tested candidates’ technical skills. Shortlisted aspirants must now complete document verification, with schedules to be announced on the official website, apsc.nic.in.

Eight global business titans, including Elon Musk and Satya Nadella, began their remarkable US careers via the H-1B visa. These leaders, many with Indian roots, leveraged strong academic foundations and ambition to drive innovation in tech and business, transforming industries and leaving a significant global impact. Their journeys highlight the power of international talent.