university of cambridge

Indian science teacher Soma Mandal has been named the South Asia regional winner for the 2026 Cambridge Dedicated Teacher Awards. She is recognized for her efforts in engaging students with environmental issues and climate change action. Mandal is among nine global regional winners, with one to be chosen as the overall winner through public vote..

A colossal millipede, Arthropleura, once roamed Earth 326 million years ago, predating dinosaurs. A 2018 fossil discovery revealed this arthropod, estimated to be 8.8 feet long and weighing 50 kg. These giant invertebrates inhabited ancient coastal woodlands, feeding on available vegetation and possibly smaller creatures.

The Jharkhand government is expanding opportunities for tribal, backward class, and minority students to study abroad. The Marang Gomke Jaipal Singh Munda Overseas Scholarship scheme has doubled its seats for the 2026-27 academic session. Applications open May 14 for postgraduate courses in Great Britain and Northern Ireland. This initiative aims to support students attending prestigious global institutions.

Mastering English vocabulary is crucial for exams, interviews, and professional success. Experts advise against rote memorization, emphasizing learning words in context through diverse reading and active usage. Consistent, small steps like daily practice and thinking in English are key to building a strong vocabulary, rather than attempting rapid cramming. Embrace mistakes and use sophisticated words judiciously.

St Stephen's College, a historic institution, has appointed its first woman principal in its 145-year history, Prof Susan Elias, set to take charge in June. This milestone follows the college's transition to co-education nearly 50 years ago, marking a significant step towards gender parity and inclusivity on campus.

An American Fulbright scholar, Isabel Salovaara, has earned a doctorate for her research on the aspirations of women in Bihar. Her study, conducted at state coaching centres, highlights how a 2016 government policy reserving jobs for women has fostered a sense of community and state connection among them.

A routine ploughing in Snettisham, Norfolk, unearthed Europe's greatest Iron Age treasure trove, a hoard of over 175 torcs and other precious metal objects. Initially thought to be emergency hoarding, scholars now interpret the find as intentional archiving, revealing a prosperous and socially complex Celtic society. The discovery offers insights into ancient craftsmanship and the lifecycle of valuable possessions.

Tamil Nadu has a non-Dravidian govt after six decades. But its new CM’s campaign speeches have been exemplars of vacuity, we have few clues about how TVK will interpret voters’ desire for change

Renowned author Zadie Smith, celebrated for her insightful explorations of culture and identity, has captivated readers with her profound narratives. From her debut "White Teeth" to later works like "NW," Smith's writing, influenced by her diverse heritage, offers a sharp, humorous, and thought-provoking lens on modern life.

Northstowe's Hindu community faces a significant challenge as they bid for a faith/community land plot to establish their first temple. Currently, families travel 40 miles for worship, impacting cultural connection. Hindu Samaj Northstowe proposes an interfaith hub with prayer rooms and a temple, competing with a church-led bid offering multi-faith spaces.

In 1971, historian Alexander McKee led a dive that uncovered the remains of the Tudor ship, the Mary Rose, buried in Solent mud. This remarkable find, preserved for centuries, yielded thousands of artifacts offering insights into 16th-century life. The ship's dramatic 1982 recovery captivated the world, initiating ongoing conservation efforts to protect this significant piece of British history.

Jamia Millia Islamia's Centre for Theoretical Physics, in collaboration with IUCAA, inaugurated a four-day international conference on "Cross-Survey Cosmography." The event brought together global experts to discuss precision cosmology, emerging tensions in cosmic parameters, and potential new physics

Gibraltar's Barbary macaques have been observed practicing geophagy, intentionally eating mud to counteract the effects of junk food from tourists. Scientists believe this behavior helps rebalance their gut microbiomes, offering a protective effect against the fatty, salty, and sugary snacks they consume.

XIM University and IIT Bhubaneswar celebrated their postgraduate and annual convocations, respectively, awarding hundreds of degrees. Meanwhile, DPS Kalinga and St. Xavier's Senior Secondary School, Cuttack, achieved outstanding results in the CBSE Class X Board Examinations. Fakir Mohan University also hosted its annual festival, 'Unnmesh', emphasizing holistic student development.