Latest news with #NAS
The Print
2 days ago
- Science
- The Print
Centre's school education assessment flags learning gaps—Maths least favourite, govt schools lag behind
Conducted by the Performance Assessment, Review, and Analysis of Knowledge for Holistic Development (PARAKH)—an independent body under NCERT and Union Ministry of Education—the survey report released Tuesday showed that Mathematics was the subject where students across all three assessed grades performed the lowest. The PARAKH Rashtriya Sarvekshan, formerly known as the National Achievement Survey (NAS), was conducted on 4 December last year, covering 21,15,022 students from both government and private schools in Grades 3, 6 and 9, across 74,229 schools in 781 districts, spanning 36 States and Union Territories. New Delhi: Highlighting serious learning gaps in the subject of Mathematics among school students, a government survey has found that less than 60 percent of Class 3 students could fluently perform addition and subtraction of two-digit numbers, with less than 50 percent of Class 6 students able to recognise simple number patterns, like odd and even numbers. Additionally, only 28 percent of Class 9 students could understand and apply the concept of percentages to solve problems. The survey was revised last year in line with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. The last NAS in 2021 covered Classes 3, 4, 5, 8 and 10. Under the revamped format, it now assesses Classes 3, 6, and 9—marking the beginning of each stage of schooling as outlined in the new policy. In Class 3, where students were assessed in both Language and Mathematics, the average score in Language was 64 percent, compared to 60 percent in Mathematics. The survey showed that average performance in Mathematics declined as students progressed through higher grades. Language performance also showed a downward trend. In Class 6, an additional subject—'The World Around Us'—was introduced alongside Language and Mathematics. Students scored lowest in Mathematics (46 percent), while Language averaged 57 percent, and The World Around Us scored 49 percent nationally. The World Around Us covers the environment and society. It describes the use of natural resources in our immediate surroundings, and basic social and behavioural norms, among others. In case of class 9, students were assessed in Language, Mathematics, Science and Social Science. Among the four subjects, Language had the highest average score (54 percent), while Mathematics had the lowest (37 percent). Science and Social Science showed equal average performances at 40 percent. According to Indrani Bhaduri, programme coordinator, CEO and head of PARAKH, the performance of Class 3 students has improved since the previous NAS in 2021, when the average Mathematics score was 57 percent. However, she said that the previous NAS surveys cannot be compared with this one because of the overall change in assessment method. 'In almost all states, the performance of Class 3 has improved due to the NIPUN Bharat initiative. It is only a few states that are pulling down the national average,' she told ThePrint. NIPUN Bharat initiative, or National Initiative for Proficiency in Reading with Understanding and Numeracy, was launched as part of NEP 2020. For higher classes, Bhaduri said, the impact of NEP 2020 will take more time to reflect in student outcomes, as learning levels were significantly affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. 'This trend is visible in international assessments like PISA and TIMSS, where higher grades—those most affected by the pandemic—have shown consistently lower performance,' she said. In terms of state-wise performance, Punjab, Himachal Pradesh, Kerala and Chandigarh were among the top performers, while Meghalaya, Lakshadweep and Uttarakhand recorded the lowest scores across all classes. The report said that instances where less than 50 percent of students were able to answer correctly indicate 'learning gaps'. 'These learning gaps highlight the need for focused interventions to strengthen students' skills, refine instructional strategies, and provide additional learning support. Addressing these areas effectively will help improve overall student learning outcomes in the nation,' the report read. Also Read: CBSE releases final two board exam policy for class 10, makes first option mandatory; second optional Govt schools lag in Mathematics In case of Class 3, central government schools recorded the lowest performance in Mathematics. Scheduled Tribe (ST) students had the lowest scores across both subjects. Other Backward Class (OBC) and Scheduled Caste (SC) students performed at similar levels, with better outcomes in Language, compared to Mathematics. Similarly, in case of Class 6, government-aided and state government schools showed weaker performance, especially in Mathematics. In terms of social groups, ST students had the lowest overall scores, Mathematics being the most challenging for them. OBC and SC students recorded moderate performance, with better outcomes in Language than in The World Around Us and Mathematics. In Class 9 as well, state government and government-aided schools recorded the lowest performance in Mathematics. ST students had the lowest scores across all subjects, with the largest gaps observed in Mathematics. 'SC and OBC students performed similarly, with Language being their strongest subject and Mathematics the weakest across all social groups,' the report read. A significant rural-urban divide was also observed. While Class 3 students in rural areas performed better in both subjects, Classes 6 and 9 students in urban areas outperformed their rural counterparts across all subjects. In his message in the report, School Education Secretary Sanjay Kumar said that the survey helped 'identify both our achievements and the challenges that lie ahead'. Moving beyond assessment, the next phase aims to 'translate the findings of the PARAKH Rashtriya Sarvekshan 2024 into meaningful actions', he added, which will involve phased data sharing through workshops at national, regional, state and district levels to 'prepare district-specific roadmaps, where roles and responsibilities are clearly defined'. 'Support will come from layered interventions—short-, mid-, and long-term—including teacher training, community engagement, digital materials, and a Management Information System,' he said. Science & Social Science also challenging Only 36 percent of Class 9 students could correctly classify matter based on physical properties (such as state, shape, transparency, magnetism, conductivity) and chemical properties (including purity, acidity, metallic nature and composition). Additionally, just 33 percent accurately described how electricity works by manipulating elements in simple circuits, and demonstrated the heating and magnetic effects of electricity. In Social Science, only 33 percent of Class 9 students could explain key natural phenomena, such as climate, weather, ocean cycles, soil formation, and river flow, along with their spatial distribution. Meanwhile, 45 percent understood the process of the Indian Constitution's formation, and grasped the ideas and ideals of the Indian National Movement, including those rooted in India's civilisational heritage. According to the report, the average national score in Social Science for girls was 41 percent, higher than boys at 39 percent. However, in Science, boys scored marginally higher with an average of 41 percent, compared to girls' 39 percent. (Edited by Mannat Chugh) Also read: IIT Kharagpur's two-pronged plan to help students in distress: 'campus mothers' & welcome committees
The Star
6 days ago
- Business
- The Star
Move to streamline 12 million addresses nationwide
Addressing issues: Fahmi (right) and his deputy Teo Nie Ching at the Malaysia Address Conference in Kuala them are Principal Assistant State Secretary Maznah Mahat (left). — SAMUEL ONG/The Star KUALA LUMPUR: A unified National Address System (NAS) that will streamline more than 12 million addresses nationwide is set to be rolled out soon, a move aimed at tackling long-standing issues of inaccurate and inconsistent address data across the public and private sectors. Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil said the significant reform, mooted by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, would resolve the widespread discrepancies in address information used by various agencies and organisations. 'The core focus of the NAS is to ensure that every address in Malaysia is identifiable and traceable through accurate means,' Fahmi said after launching the Malaysia Address Conference 2025 yesterday. He explained that the NAS will serve as a centralised and standardised database for both government agencies and businesses, enabling more efficient coordination, faster deliveries, and improved emergency response times. Currently, various agencies and businesses rely on different address databases, which often leads to inefficiencies and inaccuracies, he said. Fahmi added that the reform is projected to generate RM2bil in economic spillover and create more than 2,000 jobs over the next five years, particularly in sectors related to address management, based on analysis by the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission. The system, he said, would not only improve day-to-day operations but also prove critical during disasters such as floods, where precise location data is vital for identifying affected areas. While centralising addresses may appear mundane, Fahmi stressed that the implications are far-reaching. 'When I first took office, I didn't think this was a pressing issue. But after multiple discussions, I discovered just how fragmented our address systems are. A single person or entity might have different addresses. 'Every address should belong to its rightful owner. The many agencies out there do not have standardised information, and this has led to significant issues in daily dealings, such as delays or failed deliveries,' he said. The government has spent about RM700mil to date on geospatial and navigation services to obtain location information outsourced from third parties.
Geeky Gadgets
6 days ago
- Business
- Geeky Gadgets
UGREEN vs Synology : Which NAS System is Right for You?
Imagine investing in a storage solution only to realize it doesn't quite meet your needs—whether it's too rigid for your creative projects or too complex for your small business. Choosing the right Network Attached Storage (NAS) system can feel like navigating a maze of technical jargon and competing priorities. Enter UGREEN and Synology, two distinct players in the NAS market. While Synology is a household name renowned for its reliability and polished ecosystem, UGREEN is an up-and-coming contender offering innovative performance and flexibility. But which one truly aligns with your goals? The answer depends on what you value most: stability or innovation, simplicity or customization. In this comparison, SpaceRex explores the unique strengths and trade-offs of UGREEN and Synology, breaking down their hardware, software ecosystems, and target audiences. Whether you're a tech-savvy home lab enthusiast seeking high-performance hardware or a business owner prioritizing seamless data management, this piece will help you uncover which system fits your needs. Along the way, we'll highlight surprising insights—like how Synology's shift toward proprietary drives could limit future upgrades or why UGREEN's flexibility might come with a steeper learning curve. By the end, you'll have a clearer picture of which NAS solution is not just a tool but a partner in your digital workflow. UGREEN vs Synology Comparison Performance and Hardware: Speed vs. Stability UGREEN focuses on delivering high-performance hardware at competitive prices. Its systems incorporate modern CPUs, DDR5 RAM, and faster networking options, making them ideal for users who demand speed and flexibility. For instance, UGREEN devices equipped with Intel Quick Sync CPUs excel in hardware transcoding, which is particularly beneficial for media streaming and virtualization. Additionally, UGREEN separates its operating system from data drives, enhancing both performance and adaptability. On the other hand, Synology prioritizes reliability and stability over innovative performance. While its systems often feature older CPUs, they are optimized for energy efficiency and seamless operation. Synology's hardware is tightly integrated with its software, making sure a smooth and consistent user experience. However, starting in 2025, Synology's shift toward requiring proprietary drives in newer models may limit hardware flexibility, which could deter users seeking more customization options. Operating Systems and Ecosystems: Flexibility vs. Maturity Synology's DiskStation Manager (DSM) is a mature and user-friendly operating system renowned for its extensive features and third-party app support. It includes tools like Active Backup for Business, MS365/Google Workspace integration, and robust data protection options such as snapshots and cloud backups. However, Synology's tightly controlled ecosystem, while reliable, restricts customization opportunities for advanced users. UGREEN's Ugo Pro OS, although newer, offers a familiar interface for users transitioning from DSM. While it lacks some of DSM's advanced features and polish, UGREEN compensates with flexibility. Users can install alternative operating systems or use Docker for containerized applications, making it an attractive option for tech-savvy individuals. However, this flexibility often requires a higher level of technical expertise, which may not appeal to general users. UGREEN vs Synology : The Battle for NAS Supremacy Watch this video on YouTube. Discover other guides from our vast content that could be of interest on NAS (Network Attached Storage). Media and Backup Capabilities: Simplicity vs. Customization Both UGREEN and Synology support media streaming, but their approaches differ significantly. UGREEN provides a theater application and relies on Docker to configure Plex, offering greater customization at the expense of simplicity. Synology, in contrast, supports Plex natively, making sure a straightforward setup for media enthusiasts. Although Synology has discontinued its Video Station app, its native Plex support ensures a smooth and hassle-free streaming experience. In terms of data protection, Synology stands out with advanced backup solutions, including snapshots, cloud integration, and Active Backup for Business. These features make it a strong choice for businesses and users prioritizing data security. UGREEN, while offering basic backup features, lacks the comprehensive tools found in Synology's ecosystem, making it less suitable for users with complex data protection needs. Target Audiences and Practical Applications UGREEN is tailored for advanced users, home lab enthusiasts, and those seeking high-performance hardware for demanding tasks like virtualization, Docker containers, and media transcoding. Its flexibility and modern design appeal to users who value customization and control over their NAS systems. Synology, on the other hand, is designed for businesses and general users who prioritize reliability, ease of use, and a mature ecosystem. Its tightly integrated hardware and software provide a dependable, long-term solution for managing data and applications without requiring extensive technical expertise. Limitations and Considerations Each system has its drawbacks, which may influence your decision: UGREEN: While powerful, UGREEN lacks some enterprise-grade features, such as advanced email notifications and built-in VPN servers. These omissions may limit its appeal for business environments. Additionally, certain configurations could lead to performance bottlenecks if not optimized properly. While powerful, UGREEN lacks some enterprise-grade features, such as advanced email notifications and built-in VPN servers. These omissions may limit its appeal for business environments. Additionally, certain configurations could lead to performance bottlenecks if not optimized properly. Synology: Synology's reliance on proprietary drives in newer models restricts your ability to customize or upgrade storage. Furthermore, its use of older CPU technology may not meet the needs of users seeking innovative performance for demanding applications. Build Quality and Design: Innovation vs. Functionality Both UGREEN and Synology deliver high-quality build materials and thoughtful designs. UGREEN's tool-less design and modern aesthetics stand out, appealing to users who prioritize innovation and ease of use. Synology's design, while less flashy, emphasizes functionality and durability, aligning with its focus on reliability and long-term performance. Future Outlook: Emerging vs. Established UGREEN is rapidly evolving, with frequent updates and improvements expected as it continues to establish itself in the NAS market. Its focus on high-performance hardware and flexibility positions it as a strong contender for advanced users and tech enthusiasts. Synology, with its proven track record and extensive support network, remains a reliable choice for businesses and general users. Its commitment to ecosystem integration and long-term support ensures continued relevance in the NAS landscape, even as new competitors emerge. Making the Right Choice Your decision between UGREEN and Synology ultimately depends on your specific needs and priorities: Choose UGREEN if you value high-performance hardware, flexibility, and customization. It's an excellent option for advanced users and home lab enthusiasts who want control over their NAS setup. if you value high-performance hardware, flexibility, and customization. It's an excellent option for advanced users and home lab enthusiasts who want control over their NAS setup. Choose Synology if you prioritize reliability, ease of use, and a feature-rich ecosystem. It's the better choice for businesses and general users seeking a dependable, long-term solution for data management. By carefully evaluating your requirements and understanding the strengths and limitations of each system, you can select the NAS solution that best aligns with your goals and ensures optimal performance for your specific use case. Media Credit: SpaceRex Filed Under: Hardware Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
BusinessToday
6 days ago
- Business
- BusinessToday
Fahmi: Malaysia's National Address System To Unlock RM2 Billion Economic Potential
The National Address System (NAS), currently being developed by the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission, is poised to generate RM2 billion in economic spillover and create over 2,000 new jobs within five years, Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil said. Speaking at the National Address Conference 2025, Fahmi highlighted NAS as a critical infrastructure initiative that will standardise, centralise and verify Malaysia's approximately 12 million address records, many of which are currently inconsistent and fragmented across agencies. 'With accurate and geocoded addresses, sectors like e-commerce, logistics and emergency services will experience faster response times, fewer delivery errors and improved operational efficiency,' he said. He shared that NAS will assign unique location identifiers to every address, enabling seamless integration across public and private sectors. Fahmi noted that the system is expected to improve everything from disaster response to utility planning, while driving digital transformation under the Malaysia Digital Economy Blueprint and National 4IR Policy. 'NAS is more than a tech upgrade, it's a socioeconomic catalyst that enhances productivity, supports job creation and strengthens Malaysia's competitiveness,' he added. Identified as a 'Needle Mover' in Malaysia's digital transformation agenda, Fahmi emphasised that NAS is a cornerstone of the government's vision to elevate the nation into a high-income, digitally driven economy. Related
The Sun
6 days ago
- Business
- The Sun
National Address System to boost economy with RM2 billion and 2,000 jobs
KUALA LUMPUR: The National Address System (NAS) has the potential to generate RM2 billion in economic benefits and create over 2,000 jobs within five years, according to Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil. Speaking at the National Address Conference 2025, Fahmi explained that NAS, developed by the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC), aims to standardise and verify addresses nationwide. This will help government agencies, businesses, and emergency services operate more efficiently. 'Although Malaysia has around 12 million addresses, no single entity has complete and standardised data. NAS will ensure accuracy and consistency, benefiting sectors like e-commerce, logistics, and emergency response,' he said. Fahmi highlighted that NAS will assign unique geocodes to each address, improving delivery services and reducing misdeliveries. In emergencies, rescue teams will locate victims faster, enhancing public safety. 'NAS is not just about solving current issues—it will also boost productivity, create jobs, and strengthen Malaysia's digital competitiveness,' he added. Deputy Communications Minister Teo Nie Ching and Communications Ministry secretary-general Datuk Mohamad Fauzi Md Isa were also present at the event. Fahmi noted that NAS aligns with the Malaysia Digital Economy Blueprint and the National 4IR Policy, supporting the government's goal of transforming Malaysia into a high-income digital nation. The lack of centralised address data has caused problems such as delayed shipments, slow emergency responses, and difficulties in infrastructure planning. NAS aims to resolve these challenges by providing a unified system for all stakeholders. - Bernama
