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Creating Mental Health and Well–Being Culture

Health encompasses mental, physical, spiritual, emotional, and social health. Different branches of the same tree. So, why do we focus too much on one branch than the whole tree? Abhilasha Purushothaman discusses more.

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Mental health is sometimes seen in an exclusive light. Very important and highly important. Yes, it is! And so is health! Health encompasses mental, physical, spiritual, emotional, and social health. Different branches of the same tree. So, why do we focus too much on one branch than the whole tree? That’s where we are not seeing the whole picture but the part of an elephant* and struggle to understand it. To understand and discuss mental health it is essential to understand what’s happening at the individual level, what’s happening at the societal level what’s happening at the national/international level, and over the ages.

  • Mental disorders are growing fast because of the comfortable lifestyle and consumerist society that we are living in.
  • Instead of two or three times a day we are eating any time of the day or night.

Our sleep cycle has gone for a toss. It’s a common pattern for children to stay up till late as 3 am or more.

  • Children are less exposed to sunlight.
  • We have constant access to digital life at our fingertips. We can switch to any app, site, or channel in under a second. So basically we are training our attention not to stay in one place and keep wandering.
  • We don’t chew food properly. Our food has high sugar, fat, and salt.
  • We are sitting continuously, whether we are commuting, studying, or discussing. Lesser and lesser physical activity and more and more overthinking.
  • We are living in a time of instant gratification and over-pampering parenting.

The list can go on.

When it comes to the intrapersonal/individual level we are going far from our own culture which already has best practices. We do not teach children ‘sanyam’, ‘balance’, ‘asteya’, or ‘tolerance’ anymore. We are continuously bombarded by too many options, choices, easy distractions, and multi-focus attention. Mental tension, frustrations, insecurity, and aimlessness are among the most powerful stressors. We blame others before realizing our own mistakes.

Eknath Easwaran puts it aptly and proposed a solution to reduce this. He says, “A great deal of psychological stress comes from the rush and hurry of a turbulent mind, which jumps recklessly to unwarranted conclusions, rushed to judgments, and often is going too fast to see events and people as they truly are. Such a mind keeps the body under continual tension. It is constantly on the move – desiring, worrying, hoping, fearing, planning, defending, rehearsing, and criticizing. It cannot stop or rest except in deep sleep, when the whole body, particularly the nervous system, heaves a sigh of relief and tries to repair the damage of the day.

Simply by slowing the mind, much of this tension can be removed. Then we are free to respond to life’s difficulties not as sources of stress but as challenges, which will draw out of us deeper resources than we ever suspected we ever had. A one-pointed mind is slow and sound, which gives it immense resilience under stress. With a mind like this, we always have a choice in how we respond to life around us.”

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So how can we create a culture that promotes mental well-being? Following are a few tips:

  1. Engage in physical activity every day for at least 40 minutes. It could be dancing, mopping, walking, running, yoga, exercise, aerobics, etc. When the body is active, the mind can be directed effectively. Pay attention to the sitting habit and take a break/move every hour to break the long-time sitting. Do stretching for 5 minutes every hour. Place the computer in a position that allows working by standing up for a few minutes. In an organization, technology can be used to track and create a reward/privilege system to motivate employees to get into a daily fitness routine.
  2. Developing single-pointed attention by slowing the mind. The gift? The best example is M.S.Dhoni, who shows calm and composed behavior when pressed with challenges. Mindfulness practices, 2-minute focused breathing, and short meditations are some strategies that may develop single-pointed attention. Organizations can promote these techniques and encourage their members to do these often.
  3. Becoming more self-aware, acknowledging one’s needs, and communicating to self and others effectively. For this, a journal/diary can be maintained with some basic questions about the day or it could be simply expressing in writing what you think inside your mind. The more honest one expression about self the better insight one may get. With continuous practice, we would start accessing the wisdom that we already possess within us. Organizations can show research done in this field to motivate people.
  4. Learning a new language or instrument or skill to challenge the mind. Organizations can provide resources for the same. Organizations can promote creative thinking by challenging employees to connect their ‘curiosities/skills/interests with their work.
  5. A mental well-being culture can be fostered in organizations by starting a practice of effective communication. Listening skills, nonviolent communication, assertiveness training, understanding passive-aggressive communication, etc. can be discussed and practiced.
  6. Understand that a consumerist culture would keep on flourishing when people do not like themselves, are dissatisfied, wants more, and compare themselves with others. Organizations can develop practices where sharing and discussion on such topics happen frequently. The aim is to understand the impact of changing times, acknowledge one’s needs, and make conscious/ balanced decisions.
  7. Creating a place/time for employees to de-stress. They can play, have fun together, read, stay silent and rejuvenate.
  8. Connecting the people to a bigger goal than themselves. This could include volunteering, social work, chasing an ideal, taking actions that promote a healthy environment, etc.
  9. Peer support network: in our school, we have an initiative run by a student named ‘Unboxed’ that creates a safe space for school students to have mental health-related dialogue.
  10. Another practice that our school has started is the development of therapy-based worksheets to use as separate content or can be integrated into the curriculum.
  11. Mental health events/sessions/workshops/seminars/quizzes/fests can be organized from time to time to promote the culture of mental health well-being.

PS:

The picture is from the story Blind Men and Elephant. Perhaps if you put the parts together, you will see the truth.

About the Author – Abhilasha Purushothaman is a Counsellor and Psychology teacher at Choithram School, Indore, M.P.

 

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Knowledge

Empowering the next generation: How mentorship shapes the future of young women’s professions

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Mentorship acts as a cornerstone in empowering women across diverse professional landscapes. Studies reveal a strong correlation between mentorship and positive career outcomes for women. Using studies and real-world examples, this article talks about how mentoring shapes women’s career prospects.

Bridging the Gender Gap: The Power of Role Models

According to a 2021 study by McKinsey & Company and Lean In, women who have mentors are more likely to advance in their careers than those who don’t. This emphasizes how important role models are. Through mentorship, mentees are encouraged to believe that “if they can do it, so can I” by seeing successful women in their area. They are thus motivated to go after big dreams and defy society norms that might have initially deterred them.

Breaking Down Barriers: Access to Networks and Resources

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Mentorship transcends mere guidance; it unlocks valuable networks and resources. Mentors, often established professionals, can connect their mentees to crucial individuals and opportunities. A 2023 study by the Harvard Business Review found that women with mentors are more likely to be connected to senior leaders and receive critical career advice. These connections open doors to job opportunities, training programs, and industry knowledge, propelling women forward in their careers.

Building Confidence and Skill Development

Mentorship fosters professional development by providing constructive feedback and valuable insights. A research published in the Journal of Career Development also found that mentorship programs significantly increase women’s self-efficacy and confidence in their abilities. Through personalized guidance, mentors equip their mentees with the skills needed to excel in their chosen field. This tailored approach empowers women to navigate challenges, develop critical thinking skills, and become well-rounded professionals.

Real-World Examples: Paving the Way for Success

Mentoring has an impact that goes beyond statistics. Consider the narrative of Meta Platforms’ COO, Sheryl Sandberg. Susan Wojcicki, the former CEO of YouTube, became Sandberg’s mentor. Sandberg acknowledges Wojcicki’s crucial assistance and direction throughout her career. In similar way, former PepsiCo CEO Indra Nooyi has talked about the important influence her mentor Jack Welch had on developing her leadership style and helping her succeed. These illustrations demonstrate how mentoring can significantly alter the career paths of women in leadership roles.

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Investing in the Future: A Collective Responsibility

Mentorship is not a one-sided endeavor. Moreover, It fosters a culture of learning and exchange, benefiting both mentors and mentees. Mentors gain valuable leadership experience, stay updated with industry trends through interactions with mentees, and contribute to building a more inclusive and diverse future within their organizations.

The future of various professions and the empowerment of women hinges on funding mentorship programs. While individuals can actively seek mentorship within their networks or through specialized channels, organizations can design structured programs that pair women with experienced mentors. Every effort, no matter how big or small, helps create a world in which women prosper and realize their full potential in all spheres of the workforce.

To conclude, mentoring serves as a spark for women’s professional empowerment. Through facilitating access to resources, networks, and positive role models as well as skill development, mentoring sets the stage for a day when women may successfully traverse a variety of professions and realize their full potential. Together, we can actively seek guidance and engage in mentorship programs to help establish a better future for women in the workforce.

Authored by:

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Dr. Kalpana Gangaramani
Founder & Managing Director,
Target Publications Pvt. Ltd.

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Inspiration

International Women’s Day 2024: Are We Not Special?

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The image is generated using AI

The scene opens in a cozy study, where a mother Nishi, sits on a couch reading the newspaper. Her son, Neil approaches with a questioning look on his face.

Neil: Ma, what does it mean to be a woman?

Nishi: [Sits up with a start and puts the newspaper aside] Well, that’s quite a question for a 6-year-old, Neil, but let me try to explain it in a way that you will understand.

Neil: Okay ma! Please tell me.

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Nishi: Imagine you are a superhero and have this special power.

Neil: Like Spiderman and flying making webs all around?

Nishi: Well, something like that. Being a woman is like having the superpower of feeling. It means to be able to connect with people with the heart, without even touching.

Neil: Hmm, like when you know exactly what I want to eat when I return from school even though I do not ask you for it?

Nishi: Exactly so, my son. Together with that superpower, there is another added one. Do you want to know what that is?

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Neil: What’s that?

Nishi: It is the infinite power of love. No matter what you do, a mother’s love for her child is always there, strong and 100 bags full.

Neil: Even when I went and pinched my little sister’s cheeks thinking it would make her happy?

Nishi: Yes, even then. Though it was a little difficult then for I had to show you the difference between what makes you happy and what makes the little one sad. You did take some time to understand that, and that my son is also a super power that we have. Keeping a balance when there are so many little things to be looked after. 

Neil: [Grinning sheepishly] So, being my Ma is really like being a superhero twice over?

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Nishi: [Laughs] You could say that. What do you see I do not wear a cape, like spiderman does. I wear my heart on my sleeves?

Neil: Where is your heart? Which sleeve? Please can you show me that?

Nishi: [Pulling her son close to her in a tight hug] Can you hear the heart beat? Remember it beats for you and your sister and your father and all those whom you love.

Neil: That’s cool Ma. I can hear it loud and clear. Is Dad a superhero too?

Nishi: Absolutely! When he comes come ask him to hold you tight in his arms and you can hear his heart beat on his sleeves. Remember his heart too beats for you and all of us.

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Neil: You have taught me something very important today, Ma.

Nishi: [With a smile] What would that be, my son?

Neil: We learn from whatever we do, wherever we are and whoever we are with.

Nishi: Why did you ever doubt that?

Neil: I am seeing it through my Spiderman lenses now and let me tell you what happened today in school, superhero.

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Nishi: I am all ears.

Neil: I wore my costume and went on a rollercoaster ride. First, we went up and down with numbers, then I helped Rishi to take a wild turn with spellings and finally we all looped around with learning about earthworms and caterpillars!

Nishi: Sounds like a fantastic ride, spiderman. Did you overthrow any enemies today?

Neil: Oh yes Ma! I climbed the ‘Mount Fraction’ and spun the largest web around the ‘Spelling Summit’.

Nishi: That was amazing. Did you discover any treasures along the way, son?

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Neil: Oh, yes! As I was looping around the library, I discovered the hidden gems of knowledge there and collected quite a few in my big, red sack.

Nishi: What did you learn from this exploration, my superhero?

Neil: Learning is such an adventure, ma! Perhaps it is the greatest adventure of all. Now that we are all superheroes with our hearts on our sleeves, we can be fearless inquirers, brave thinkers and open-minded travellers.

Nishi: I have no doubt you will, my little Spiderman, be ready for every new challenge that life throws at you.

Neil: [hugging his mother] With my superhero ma with me, learning is going to be one great adventure.

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Nishi: Light out time! Off to bed, son.

When Nishi goes to her room a little later, she finds a little envelope tucked under her pillow. She opens it and finds some lines penned in a familiar handwriting, her husband’s. She looks around and finds him fast asleep, and does not disturb him. So quietly under the moonlit night she sits by herself and as the tears come welling up, she reads these heartfelt lines.

 

TO OUR SUPERHERO: MA

In the rich tapestry of time, she weaves her grace,

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A woman, in every hue, a divine presence.

Her worth, not measured in gild or gleam,

But in the strength of her being, God’s beautiful dream.

 

In her lap, the universe finds its peace,

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A reservoir of love for families.

With each role she pens and embraces,

A new story, a new character emerges.

 

A child is nurtured with utmost care,

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With hope and joy, beyond compare.

A mother, a wife, a sister, her roles unending,

She paints a new picture, a melody, unrelenting.

 

Her wisdom, a treasure trove, ageless and wise,

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A harbour for stormy seas, a rainbow in the skies.

She is the creator of dreams, a beacon of light,

Warm food for all, and a bedtime song for the night.

 

A woman transcends the bounds of time and space,

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For she is a marvel of creation, in God’s own image. 

 

This story and poem is Authored By: 


Sudeshna Sengupta
Director- Academics,
Vedanya International School, Gurugram 

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Education

Nurturing Future Leaders through Early Entrepreneurship Education

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As we navigate through complex economic, social, and technological landscapes, the importance of nurturing future leaders capable of innovation, adaptability, and resilience cannot be emphasized enough. Early entrepreneurship education emerges as the key pathway through which this goal can be achieved. By instilling entrepreneurial skills and mindsets in young individuals, we prepare them for future career success and cultivate the leaders of tomorrow who are equipped to tackle the challenges of the 21st century.

Early entrepreneurship education involves introducing entrepreneurial concepts, skills, and attitudes to children and young adults at an early stage of their academic journey. It goes beyond traditional classroom learning by encouraging creativity, problem-solving, risk-taking, and resourcefulness. Through hands-on experiences such as engaging in real-world projects, students develop a deeper understanding of entrepreneurship and its role in society. 

Source: Background Paper – Entrepreneurship in Education. Available on www.oecd.org

Entrepreneurship empowers individuals to take initiative, lead by example, and inspire others to action. Through entrepreneurship education, students learn to identify their strengths, set goals, and take ownership of their ideas and projects. By cultivating leadership skills such as communication, collaboration, and decision-making, entrepreneurship education prepares students to become effective leaders in their communities and beyond.

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By integrating entrepreneurship education into the curriculum from an early age, a strong foundation can be laid for building future leaders equipped with the skills, mindsets, and experiences needed to thrive in the 21st century. However, to maximize the impact of entrepreneurship education, it needs to be given equal weightage as academic subjects. In addition to having a dedicated weekly session on entrepreneurship, all stakeholders must come together to make an effort and add entrepreneurial concepts across various subjects. This interdisciplinary approach enables students to apply entrepreneurial concepts and skills in diverse contexts and fosters holistic learning. The table below shows how entrepreneurship in education can trigger much higher levels of motivation, experienced relevancy, engagement and deep learning than can other pedagogical approaches.

Source: Background Paper – Entrepreneurship in Education. Available on www.oecd.org

Kidspreneurship, an edtech player is paving the way for fearless and thriving kids in school and beyond and helping them develop into future leaders.

Kidspreneurship’s flagship program, the Entrepreneurial Mindset Programme (EMP) helps develop 21st-century skills, a problem-solving mindset, and the right knowledge using entrepreneurship education as a pedagogical approach that helps students understand the concept of value creation. 

Entrepreneurship isn’t just about making money – it’s about viewing problems as opportunities and creating value for others, which is an important skill irrespective of the career a child chooses. The program focuses on students between the age of 8-14 years and is aligned with the vision statement of the National Curriculum Framework (NCF) which states – “The aim of education will not only be cognitive development but also building character and creating holistic and well-rounded individuals equipped with the key 21st-century skills”.

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The holistic approach provides global exposure and industry challenges, ensuring the students become well-rounded individuals equipped for the future. The program with 40+ modules spanning across 3 levels (Thinkpreneur, Createpreneur, and Launchpreneur) covers important topics like design thinking, financial literacy, communication, collaboration, creative thinking, critical thinking, and much more. Additionally, Skillpreneur introduces students to a variety of skills. Schools’ world over are embracing Kidspreneurship to address common challenges in education.

Educating children about entrepreneurship poses its challenges, and integrating it into different subjects presents an even bigger challenge. That’s precisely why Kidspreneurship’s Special Program for Schools is developed to introduce entrepreneurship education to students in an engaging manner and also support educators in incorporating entrepreneurship into their classrooms.

The interactive platform and program not only guide students toward becoming the leaders of tomorrow but also foster optimism and enhance their preparedness for the future. Consequently, students feel more capable of creating job opportunities and are empowered to assume leadership roles.

Over 25,000 happy parents across Asia have helped their kids develop an entrepreneurial mindset with Kidspreneurship and they’ve been featured in BW Education, Times of India, India Today, and all leading publications.

Authored By:
Swati Gauba,
Thinker-in-chief,
Kidspreneurship

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Education

National Safety Day: The Importance of Teaching Good Touch and Bad Touch in Schools

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Teacher teaching good touch and bad touch to children using colourful graphs
The image is generated using AI

In the light of National Safety Day observed on the 4th of March each year, there’s a crucial aspect of safety that demands our attention—not just physical safety but the safety of our personal boundaries. This calls for an essential conversation about teaching children the concept of good touch and bad touch in schools, a topic that extends beyond the basics of traffic and environmental safety to the core of personal security and dignity.

Why, you might ask, is it vital to introduce this topic in the educational ecosystem? Simply put, knowledge is power. Educating children on the difference between a ‘good touch’ and a ‘bad touch’ empowers them to understand their rights, recognise inappropriate behaviour, and importantly, speak up. In an era where the safety of children should be paramount, this education acts as a shield, protecting their innocence and integrity.

But the conversation doesn’t stop with the children. It extends to the educators themselves. In the process of enlightening the young minds about safety, it’s equally critical for teachers to undergo training on the same subject. This dual approach serves a twofold purpose: a) it equips teachers to handle disclosures of inappropriate touch with sensitivity and the seriousness it demands, ensuring the right steps are taken to safeguard the child and b) it makes educators aware of their own actions, ensuring their interactions with students are always appropriate and beyond reproach.

The Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, implemented in India, underscores the importance of such education. The Act provides a legal framework to protect children against offences of sexual abuse, sexual harassment, and pornography while safeguarding the child at every stage of the judicial process. Incorporating awareness about the POCSO Act in school curriculums and teacher training programs reinforces the legal and moral responsibilities we hold towards our children.

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Integrating this education into schools demands sensitivity, age-appropriate language, and a nurturing environment where children feel safe to express their concerns. It’s about building trust, ensuring every child knows they have a voice and that voice will be heard and respected.

For educators, this training should be an integral part of their professional development. Understanding the nuances of child psychology, the impact of their actions, and the legalities of child protection are essential components of their role. This knowledge not only protects the children but also the educators, fostering a safe and respectful learning environment.

Now, over to you, dear readers. Engaging in this dialogue is the first step towards change. Schools must be sanctuaries of learning, not just academically but socially and personally. As parents, educators, and members of the community, it’s our collective responsibility to advocate for and implement this crucial education. Share your thoughts, experiences, and suggestions. How can we, as a society, better protect our children? Your voice matters in shaping a safer future for our youngest citizens.

This conversation is not just necessary; it’s urgent. Let’s not shy away from it. Together, we can create a culture of safety, respect, and understanding, making every day a step towards a safer tomorrow for our children.

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Education

Confronting the Crisis: Addressing Student Suicides in Kota and Beyond

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Addressing the student suicides in Kota and beyond
The image is generated using AI

In a deeply troubling trend that underscores a crisis in India’s educational system, recent statistics paint a harrowing picture of the mental health challenges faced by students across the country. With reported cases of suicide linked to academic pressure on the rise, the urgency to address this issue has never been more critical. In the early months of 2024 alone, there have been distressing reports from prestigious institutions like IIT Kanpur, IIT Delhi, IIT Roorkee, and IIT BHU, totaling 5 incidents of student suicides.

Kota, often dubbed as India’s coaching capital, has become synonymous with the immense pressure faced by students preparing for competitive exams. The town witnessed an all-time high of 26 student suicides last year, a stark indicator of the unbearable stress these young minds are subjected to. This year, six students in Kota have already succumbed to the pressure, including an 18-year-old JEE aspirant who deemed herself a “loser” for not being able to meet the expectations set by the highly competitive exam.

These incidents are not isolated to Kota or the IITs; they are symptomatic of a larger, systemic issue plaguing educational institutions across India. A 17-year-old intermediate student in Telangana’s Adilabad district, for example, took his own life after being denied entry to an exam for arriving late, a decision that pushed him towards a tragic end.

The narrative emerging from these incidents is clear: the educational system, coupled with societal expectations, is creating an environment where failure is not seen as a part of learning but as an insurmountable setback. This mindset is contributing to a dangerous escalation in the student suicide rate, particularly in coaching hubs like Kota, where the pressure to succeed in exams such as NEET, UPSC, and JEE is immense.

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It is high time that schools, universities, and parents across India recognize the gravity of this issue. The relentless pursuit of academic excellence at the cost of students’ mental health is an unsustainable and harmful practice. Educators and caregivers must foster an environment where failure is acknowledged as a step towards growth and where students are encouraged to explore their passions without the fear of judgment.

Moreover, the implementation of comprehensive mental health programs and the promotion of open conversations about failure and resilience can significantly mitigate the risks associated with academic pressure. It is crucial for educational institutions to partner with mental health professionals to provide students with the support they need to navigate the challenges of their academic journeys.

So what is eventually required of the education sector? the alarming rate of student suicides in India is a call to action for all stakeholders in the educational sector. The tragic losses experienced in places like Kota serve as a stark reminder of the need to reevaluate our approach to education and student well-being. By cultivating an environment that values individuality, encourages exploration, and provides robust support systems, we can work towards a future where the pursuit of knowledge is not marred by the fear of failure but is celebrated as a path to personal and intellectual growth.

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Education

Overcoming Board Exam Stress: A Guide for Students and Parents

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As board exams loom on the horizon, a palpable tension grips students and parents alike across India. It’s a time when the pressure to perform peaks, often overshadowing the true essence of learning. However, it’s crucial to remember that board exam scores, while important, are not the sole determinants of a student’s potential or future success.

  • Firstly, students must acknowledge that their worth is not defined by their marks. Education is a journey of personal and intellectual growth, not a race to the highest score. Embracing this mindset alleviates much of the undue stress and shifts the focus to understanding and engaging with the material.

    One effective strategy for dealing with exam pressure is establishing a balanced study routine. This means setting realistic goals, creating a structured timetable, and including short, regular breaks to prevent burnout. Breaks are not a diversion but a necessity; they rejuvenate the mind and enhance productivity.

  • For parents, it’s vital to support their children’s well-being during this period. Encourage a healthy study environment that allows for leisure and relaxation. Pressuring children to study incessantly is counterproductive; it stifles creativity and critical thinking—skills that exams, ironically, aim to assess.
  • Students should prioritize clarity of concepts over rote memorization. Understanding the fundamentals of a subject not only aids in retaining information but also in applying knowledge in various contexts— a skill far more valuable in the long run than the ability to regurgitate facts.
  • Moreover, adopting healthy coping mechanisms can significantly reduce stress. Regular physical activity, mindfulness practices, and pursuing hobbies can provide much-needed relief from the rigors of exam preparation. Engaging in discussions with peers or mentors can also offer new perspectives and solutions to academic challenges.
  • Finally, it’s essential for both students and parents to maintain open communication. Discussing concerns, expectations, and aspirations can foster a supportive atmosphere, making the exam preparation journey less daunting.

What we can derive out of all this is that navigating the pressure of board exams requires a balanced approach that values learning over scores, well-being over relentless studying, and understanding over memorization. By cultivating a supportive environment and adopting healthy study habits, students can emerge from this challenging period not just with satisfactory results but with invaluable life skills and a deeper appreciation for the joy of learning

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Knowledge

National Science Day: Achieving the Dream of Viksit Bharat Through Education

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National Science Day is celebrated on February 28th each year to commemorate the groundbreaking discovery of the Raman Effect by Indian physicist Sir C.V. Raman in 1928. This day marks a pivotal moment in the history of Indian science, highlighting the nation’s contributions to scientific research and innovation. This celebration is not just about honoring a singular achievement but inspiring a future where science and education propel India towards greater heights.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s message underscores the government’s commitment to fostering research and innovation among the youth, pivotal for achieving this vision.

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The National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 marks a significant shift towards holistic development, ensuring education transcends traditional boundaries to embrace a broader, more integrated approach. This policy aims to prepare students not just academically but also as global citizens ready to tackle the challenges of a rapidly evolving world.

India’s strides in science and technology, exemplified by ISRO’s successful Chandrayaan 3 mission, highlight the country’s growing prowess as a global epicentre of scientific innovation. This achievement is not just a milestone in space exploration but a testament to the potential unleashed when education aligns with national aspirations.

The focus now extends beyond conventional education to encompass skills and knowledge relevant in an AI-driven post-pandemic world. The jobs of tomorrow will require a blend of technical proficiency and creative problem-solving, skills that the current educational reforms aim to nurture.

As we celebrate National Science Day, let us commit to an educational paradigm that equips our youth with the tools to build a Viksit Bharat. Through continuous encouragement of research and innovation, we pave the way for a future where education is the cornerstone of development and prosperity. Let the spirit of National Science Day inspire us to invest in our greatest asset – our youth – and together, march towards the dream of a Viksit Bharat through the biggest catalyst of change that is education.

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Education

World NGO Day: Including Social Service and Philanthropy in Curriculum

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On World NGO Day, celebrated each 27th of February, we’re reminded of the pivotal role NGOs play in fostering social change and development. It’s an opportune moment to reflect on a critical gap in our education system—integrating social service into school curriculums. While Indian schools commendably cover moral science and discuss the multifaceted challenges of poverty, they often skirt around a crucial lesson: the importance of giving back to society, a principle that acknowledges our inherent privileges.

The privilege of accessing education and enjoying life’s luxuries is not a universal given; it’s a blessing. Recognizing this privilege entails acknowledging our responsibility to contribute positively to society, underscoring the necessity of philanthropy in our educational ethos. However, mere acknowledgment isn’t enough; action is imperative. This is where the collaboration with NGOs becomes invaluable.

Consider the transformative potential of inviting NGOs working in education into our schools. These organizations, such as Pratham, Akshaya Patra, and Teach For India, are not just entities; they are repositories of real-world experiences and agents of change. By partnering with these NGOs, schools can offer students more than theoretical knowledge; they can provide them with hands-on experiences in social service, embedding the value of giving back into the fabric of their education.

Imagine the impact of integrating assignments that require active participation in social causes—organizing donation drives, participating in animal welfare activities, or contributing to environmental conservation efforts. Such initiatives do more than inculcate a sense of responsibility; they foster empathy, cultivate a sense of community, and prepare students to be conscientious citizens.

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The benefits of integrating social service into school curriculums extend beyond moral and ethical development. They equip students with critical life skills—teamwork, leadership, problem-solving, and empathy—preparing them for the challenges of the real world. Moreover, these engagements offer tangible experiences of impact, teaching students that their actions can indeed make a difference. For example, organising donation drives and animal welfare camps where students can be the volunteers for a better, bigger cause is a great way to include social services into our curriculum.

The partnership between schools and NGOs can take various forms, from guest lectures and workshops to long-term projects and internships. These collaborations provide a platform for NGOs to raise awareness about their causes and for students to engage with these issues deeply and meaningfully.

By making social service an integral part of the curriculum, we can ensure that education transcends academic achievements to include the development of well-rounded individuals who are aware of their social responsibilities. It’s about creating a culture of giving back, fostering a generation that is not only educated but also empathetic and engaged with the world’s pressing challenges.

So, let’s commit to enriching our educational systems with the values of social service and philanthropy. Let’s embrace the opportunity to partner with NGOs and transform our students into not just scholars but also compassionate contributors to society. In doing so, we pay forward our blessings and take meaningful steps towards building a more equitable and caring world.

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Knowledge

An In-depth Analysis: Navigating Challenges in the School Bus Vendor Landscape Post-COVID

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In the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic, the school bus industry has undergone significant transformations, bringing to light a host of challenges faced by bus vendors. Daily encounters with these vendors reveal a common narrative, characterised by persistent issues that have only intensified in the post-pandemic era. 

This article aims to shed light on three prominent challenges faced by school bus vendors and explore potential solutions to ensure the sustainability of their businesses.

Challenges:

  • Late Payment Woes:
    One of the primary challenges faced by school bus vendors is the delayed payment of fees by parents. Unlike schools, bus vendors lack the leverage to withhold essential documents or take punitive measures for non-payment. It is reported that 25 to 50% of parents take more than three months to settle their dues, with some outright refusing to pay despite utilising the services throughout the academic year. The absence of a robust system to enforce timely payments puts immense financial strain on bus vendors, leading to cash flow issues and operational difficulties.

  • Thin Profit Margins:
    Except for a few premium schools, bus fees often barely cover the operational costs. Negotiations with schools, PTA bodies, and parents leave little room for profit margins, especially considering the sharp rise in the costs of buses, including EMI, diesel, and employee salaries. Causing the financial sustainability of bus vendors is at stake, with many struggling to break even. The increasing costs coupled with stagnant fees create an unsustainable business model, prompting some vendors to reconsider their involvement in the industry.

  • Intense Competition from Car Pools/Van Operators:
    The rise of small van operators offering transportation services at significantly lower fees poses a serious threat to traditional school bus vendors. The appeal of doorstep and personalised services often overshadows considerations of safety and hygiene. School bus vendors are grappling with a loss of clientele to these cost-effective alternatives, further exacerbating their financial challenges. The competitive landscape has become increasingly cutthroat, pushing vendors to the brink of closure.

Solutions:

  • Enhanced Safety Standards:
    Despite norms by the government and school boards, many buses still lack with essential safety tools. Implementing stringent safety measures such as cameras, fire systems and seat belts will help regain the trust of parents concerned about the well-being of their children.

  • Higher Convenience:
    In this age of digital revolution, parents want information at finger tips about the whereabouts of the bus in real-time, irrespective of the situation. Hardware based GPS solutions don’t serve this need entirely. Apps for school bus tracking are solving this exact problem.

  • Implementing Digital Payment Solutions:
    India as a country may be a leader in advanced payment technologies, but many in bus vendor community stuck in the (dis)comfort of collecting a cheque from parents. They start should adoption of digital payment platforms to streamline the fee collection process. This can significantly reduce delays and ensure a more predictable cash flow.

The challenges faced by school bus vendors post-COVID demand a collective effort from schools, parents, and the vendors themselves to navigate through this complex landscape. By addressing issues related to payment delays, profit margins, and competition, stakeholders can work towards creating a sustainable and mutually beneficial environment for all parties involved in ensuring the safe transportation of students. It is imperative that proactive measures are taken to secure the future of school bus vendors and uphold the standards of safety and reliability in student transportation.

This article is authored by: 

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Rajesh Bhura, Co-founder of Chakraview Solutions, an application working towards school bus tracking 

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Education

Radio Broadcasting in Schools: Creating a Platform for Student Voices

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Roll up, roll up, for a trip down memory lane, back to a time when radio was the king of entertainment and information, reaching every corner of India with the magic of sound. Fast forward to today, and guess what? Radio has got a trendy new outfit, and it is called podcasts. Yes, you heard it right! As we celebrated World Radio Day on the 13th of February, let us dive into why radio broadcasting and its cool cousin, podcasts, are making a splash in schools, creating a buzz with the young and the restless.

Picture this: back in the day, radio was the Internet. From the cricket commentary that had everyone perched on the edge of their seats to the melodious tunes of Binaca Geetmala that had people swinging and swaying, radio was the heartbeat of India. Fast forward to the present, and the essence of radio is getting a reboot in schools through podcasts. This is not your grandpa’s radio; it is radio reimagined for the Snapchat generation. The educational landscape is buzzing with the potential of podcasts as a dynamic platform for interschool and intraschool communication, essentially a canvas for student voices to paint their thoughts, learnings, and creativity.

Podcasts, in essence, are the contemporary cousins of radio, offering a personalised and on-demand listening experience. Schools across India are now catching on to this trend, integrating podcasts into their curriculum to foster a culture of listening, learning, and expressing. The medium’s flexibility allows for a variety of content, from academic discussions and storytelling to debates and interviews, creating a symphony of student voices that is by the students, for the students, and, let’s not forget, about the students.

One stellar example of this educational podcast movement is the initiative by ‘The Good School Alliance‘. Their series, accessible on Spotify under the banner ‘Learning Forward‘, is a testament to the power of audio media in education. These podcasts delve into a myriad of educational topics, featuring insights from educators, students, and thought leaders in the field. The content ranges from innovative teaching methodologies to student wellness, offering a holistic view of contemporary education practices. What sets these podcasts apart is their focus on real-life applications of learning, encouraging students to connect classroom theories with the world beyond school gates.

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The Good School Alliance‘ podcasts are not just about disseminating information; they are about creating a dialogue. By involving students in the conversation, they foster a sense of community and shared learning. These podcasts serve as a beacon for other schools, illustrating how digital platforms can be harnessed to amplify student voices and create a participatory learning environment.

What’s the big deal, you ask? Well, in a world where everyone is glued to screens, podcasts are a breath of fresh air, or should we say, a melody to the ears. They are a ticket to explore new worlds without having to leave your comfy chair. And for the creators, it is a playground for imagination, a laboratory for ideas, and a stage for voices waiting to be heard. It is where Shakespeare meets science, and history gets a remix. Crafting a podcast is no game – from research and scripting to speaking like a pro and editing it. It is a rollercoaster ride of learning, with plenty of life lessons along the way. And who knows? Today’s podcast prodigy could be tomorrow’s radio superstar or the next big thing in Bollywood.

Podcasts offer a unique way to engage students, making learning more accessible and interesting. They cater to different learning styles, especially auditory learners, and provide a platform for students to explore topics beyond the traditional curriculum, fostering critical thinking and creativity.

In moving towards the digitization of radio, let us tip our hats to the OG radio, the grandfather of communication. Together, they are tuning into the hearts and minds of students, turning classrooms into studios, and homework into home runs. Here is to the voices of the future, loud, proud, and podcasting their way into our hearts. So, keep calm and podcast on, for the airwaves are waiting, and the stage is yours. Let’s make some noise, shall we?

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