In loving memory of Dr. Priya Ranjan: A mentor who treated me like family

NEW DELHI: Pearl Academy, a leading institution for creative education, in partnership with SETU Foundation, a Noida-based NGO has empowered 260+ students with technical, creative, and professional skills that strengthen their employability and economic independence, since the beginning of their partnership.

Till date, more than 100 women have been employed in job roles across Fashion Designing and Beauty & Wellness. The collaboration was inspired by a shared vision, to close the widening skill gap faced by underprivileged youth. especially women, who are often unable to access quality, industry-ready education in fashion and beauty due to financial or social constraints. 

Since 2007, SETU Foundation has worked extensively in women’s education, youth empowerment, and livelihood creation, and this collaboration marks a significant step in strengthening those efforts with industry-relevant creative education. Through Pearl Academy’s CSR initiative, specialised training programmes in Fashion Design, Garment Construction, Makeup, Hair, and Grooming were designed and delivered for SETU students and trainers. 

With a focus on long-term learning, Pearl Academy’s academic teams created tailored curricula aligned with modern industry needs, supported by hands-on learning models and state-of-the-art training methods. This ensured students received contemporary, market-aligned training that helps them pursue employment or launch entrepreneurial ventures within their communities.

Speaking about the collaboration, Aditi Srivastava, President, Pearl Academy said, “When we invest in women’s education, we invest in stronger families, communities and futures. Through this collaboration with SETU, Pearl Academy has designed learning pathways that are sensitive to context, build confidence and equip women with skills that support independence, self-belief and sustained livelihoods. Education, when delivered with care and purpose, has the power to change not just careers, but perspectives on life itself.” 

Ravi Kaul, Director, SETU Foundation added, “This collaboration has been life-altering for our students. Pearl Academy’s structured curriculum, rigorous training, and mentorship have opened doors to livelihood opportunities that were previously out of reach. We are proud of the women who have graduated and are now contributing meaningfully to their families and the community.”

“Many graduates have already secured jobs, apprenticeships, and freelance roles with local boutiques, garment units, beauty studios, and retail stores. Encouragingly, several women have also launched their own small-scale ventures, from home-based boutiques to beauty services, helping strengthen local markets and boost household incomes.” he added.

The impact of the initiative has been monitored since its first phase in 2017. Pearl Academy’s feedback-driven approach ensures regular inputs from students and trainers, enabling continuous improvement and long-term sustainability. Both institutions are exploring avenues for scaling the partnership across new regions to reach more learners and deepen the social impact. Pearl Academy and SETU foundation  remain committed to expanding this model and reinforcing the belief that creativity, skills, and opportunity together can spark lasting social transformation.

Your voice can reach the world: At JK Monitor, we firmly believe that every well-researched idea has the power to inspire change beyond geographical boundaries. We are delighted to share an encouraging message from one of our esteemed contributors, Dr. Rakesh Verma (J&K Forest Services). “His article, ‘When Trees Become Rights-Bearing Citizens: A Lesson from Canada for India’s Ecological Future,’ published on JK Monitor, received appreciation from La Compagnie des Papillons Bleus, the French non-profit organisation that founded and promotes the Universal Declaration of Tree Rights.”.  Read the message here
A Profound Loss: JK Monitor Mourns the Passing of Founding Chairman Dr. Priya Ranjan

We at JK Monitor are profoundly saddened by the sudden demise of our Founding Chairman, Dr. Priya Ranjan.IN LOVING MEMORY Dr Priya Ranjan

A brilliant mind who studied at Netarhat Residential School and graduated in Electrical Engineering from IIT Kharagpur before earning his PhD from the University of Maryland, Dr. Ranjan chose to return to India and dedicate his life to teaching, research and social good.

His pioneering work in networked systems, AI, robotics and biomedical applications—especially computer-vision tools for early detection of cancer and heart disease—reflected his deep belief that advanced technology must serve humanity.

For more than 15 years at JK Monitor, he remained a loyal friend, mentor and collaborator, marked by rare humility, intellectual integrity and quiet generosity. His passing leaves a void that cannot be filled. Priya, you will be deeply missed. Your life continues to remind us that knowledge finds its highest purpose in the service of others.

— Team JK Monitor

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