Inspiration
The world’s first SOLE Cambridge School – Paradise School Goa
We are a school in Paradise (ie Goa) hence the name. However, the meaning goes deeper than that. The Cambridge English Dictionary definition of Paradise is: ‘a place or condition of great happiness where everything is exactly as you would like it to be’.
Shilpa Mehta, Founder, Paradise School Goa, tells MARIE D’SOUZA what goes into making this SOLE Cambridge School a real game-changer
What's in a name…? Tell us the reason and significance of the name 'Paradise School'.
We are a school in Paradise (ie Goa) hence the name. However, the meaning goes deeper than that. The Cambridge English Dictionary definition of Paradise is: ‘a place or condition of great happiness where everything is exactly as you would like it to be’.
This most perfectly sums up the ethos of Paradise School because we are daring to forge new ground-breaking paths in education. We are genuinely interested in the potential and well-being of our learners, as well as teaching faculty. In that sense, we are not just a school but an educational community, with wider concerns at heart.
This is why we use the SOLE at the centre of our learning culture. Sugata Mitra’s method of Self-Organising Learning Environments allows children the intellectual freedom to discover concepts for themselves and be enchanted by this process (rather than jaded as with most schoolroom practises). This liberation is important. We use it to fuel our mainstream curriculum of the International Cambridge Board, which also supports active and dynamic learning. We find the two complement each other perfectly. Best of all, the learners thoroughly enjoy it which makes for a happy environment.
We are a SOLE Cambridge School – the world’s first. Fusing the present and the future. Hence the name Paradise.
How does Paradise School perceive the Future of Learning?
It is mainly an attitude. One has to let go of the old shore in order to find the new. However, going out to sea takes courage, fortitude and resilience when familiar landmarks disappear. One has to be willing to reinvent the wheel. But if any area needs it, it’s education, as the future stakes of our children depend on it.
This attitude needs to show up in management, infrastructure, classroom design, tech choices and overall the culture and community of the school. The biggest shift is putting the child’s voice at the centre. Often schools and institutes silence children and force them to accept the way of tradition. We have to teach children to be their own leaders, otherwise, they will never survive in the new world of not just the 21st but also the 22nd centuries.
Moving away from a patriarchal, top-down, hierarchal, authoritative structure to an inclusive, collaborative, child-centred, self-organising model is the key. We are all in together. Education should be the most exciting place on earth, for students, teachers and school creators. It’s where the best innovation can happen. Instead of suppressing it, we have to wholeheartedly allow it to emerge.
As Abraham Lincoln said, ‘the best way to predict the future – is to create it’.
'Taking education to the next level'… How does Paradise School strive to achieve this?
There are many important aspects of changing the game.
Firstly, we are creating a personalised learning experience for our students, rather than a standardised one. This is the most vital shift. It is good they move at their pace so learning is authentic and real. We favour stage, not age, and keep our class sizes small, no more than 15. In that sense we are a boutique school, offering a bespoke and tailored educational experience.
We like the latest thinking in pedagogy and have therefore chosen the most modern and contemporary subjects from the Cambridge programme including Global Perspectives, Enterprise, Environmental Management, World Literature, Fashion and Textiles and Digital Literacy. At A’level we hope to add Media Studies, Marine Studies and Psychology – as well as all the usual STEM subjects.
We offer the full flexibility of the Cambridge system by allowing our IGCSE learners to schedule their own exams over the November, March and June series. This means they don’t have to take all their exams in one go (which is stressful). Much better to stagger them in order of preference. We feel this puts the learner in charge of the examination process rather than at the mercy of it.
We embrace the internet and technology, harnessing these forces for educational purposes. Secondary children are allowed to bring their phones and devices to school; we often have digital reviews about best policy on their use, as discussed with the children themselves. Self-control is our ultimate aim. We would like our kids to be creators on the internet rather than mere consumers. As a school, we have been studying Digital Citizenship since the onset, to give children a positive and informed handle on the virtual universe.
We don’t skimp on quality. Paradise tech is iMacs and iPads. We favour the IOS platform as it offers the best and most magical experience of the internet and technological advancement. An Apple Developer teaches in our school a programme he designed called ‘The A Game’. This is where kids get to use and become very proficient at the full suites of apps the platform affords.
Practically, we have personally designed all the furniture in the school so that it is dynamic, flexible and interactive (you can write on the surface, like a whiteboard). Once again, this gives children and teachers the day-to-day power to express themselves in the classroom rather than be stuck in a rigid grid of conformist infrastructure.
In terms of our day-to-day reality, we don’t have uniforms and are on first-name terms with each other (no Sir and Miss). We have found SOLE has gone beyond the classroom and has become part of our culture making us democratic, cooperative, innovative, seeking and unafraid to explore. Most importantly, we are able to manage people’s differences of opinions with goodwill and equanimity. This is the spirit with which Paradise operates.
This goes to the heart of our community, where we have open, supportive and genuine relationships with each other – from the Trustees, to our School Board, the parent body, faculty, and children. Bullying is rare in our school. Creating a bedrock of safety and harmony is key.
What is the vision of Paradise School?
Our vision is to be true to the real meaning of education – from the Latin ‘educere’ meaning to ‘draw or to lead out’. Most education suppresses children. Our aim is to encourage our kids to emerge as their truest selves. This is a spiritual goal, not just academic. Without the full and proper contribution of children to the future world, who knows what the consequences will be? The advancement of the human race and the planet are at stake. Hence as educators, we carry the greatest responsibility to allow our children to sink and not swim when the tidal waves of change hit.
Therefore, we embrace the future and are not frightened by it. Rather we are inspired and encouraged by all the wonderful possibilities that await us. We truly believe our children will be at the helm of this ship, confidently and powerfully sailing to a brighter day.
Academically, we respect the Cambridge system and work well in alignment with their evolved position of active and dynamic learning, as well as honouring the examination process. We are excited about the doors that open at the university level and are consciously preparing our children for this now.
We are on the cusp of great change. We are handling this tipping point between the old and the new, with flair, courage and genuine innovation.
Optimism to create a better world for our children is what drives us.
Renowned educator and TED Prize winner Sugata Mitra is the main advisor to Paradise School. How are his ideas of SOLE and School in the Cloud being implemented at Paradise?
Sugata inspires us constantly. He really does take education to the next level, with an argument that is humorous, searingly intelligent and ultimately so wise.
The best thing about Sugata is he puts everyone into a SOLE space, even us as a school. We are always asking ourselves, ‘What is a SOLE School’, ‘How can we best merge the old and new ways of thinking about learning’ and ‘If teachers are not necessary in the age of the internet, then who are we, as teachers?’
My favourite question as a result of my association with Sugata is – ‘What is a self-organising system ?’. This has opened up a profound and mystical journey for me as I establish the world’s first self-organising school. I am sure once this becomes second nature to me, I will be able to share it widely with all. Successful self-organising, on all levels, is the pathway to a very dynamic human race. Let’s start with children mastering it at school.
On a practical level, merging SOLE into a mainstream curriculum has been an amazing adventure in learning. We have found so many interesting techniques for doing so, entirely self-discovered, by my team of passionate and inspired educators. We are organising the first worldwide SOLE Conference ever, to create a forum for all of us to share our findings with other SOLE educators and like-minded teachers and school leaders.
But to give you a simple taste of how it works in our school, Rounak, our Lower Secondary English teacher, asked his learners ‘Why does humour make us feel good?’ as a SOLE question. This unlocked an intense and fun workout for the kids in the SOLE Room to come up with insights.
He then asked them how humour works as a genre in literature – and what does it contribute to the stories we read and watch?
By opening up the topic as SOLE, it ignited their curiosity and lit the flame of their open-minded exploration of the subject. Rounak was then able to take this intellectual enthusiasm and channel it down a curricular highroad.
This, to me, is a perfect example of how SOLE and Cambridge work so well together.
Tell us more about the team behind Paradise School.
The strongest feature of our school is the key business people in our management structure (from trustees, to advisors to investors) who are from Goa. This gives us such a solid base to work from. Other Directors have lived or worked in Goa for over a decade, and we are all committed to creating a world-class, world-changing, inspirational educational hub here. We believe in Goa, what it stands for and its potential. For me, this team is a dynamite combination of power and expertise.
We are partnered with Newcastle University and SOLE Central as the world’s first SOLE School. Sugata Mitra is our Advisor and does workshops and talks with us often.
My Head of School, Academic Coordinator and Primary and Secondary teachers come from international schools from all over India and Goa. What marks them as Paradise faculty is they are serious about breaking new ground in education and are passionate and sincere educators. As the School Leader I give them plenty of space to mine their talent and stretch their wings. I have found giving teachers autonomy liberates their potential like nothing else. Seeing them blossom is as important to me as allowing our children to thrive. This is what creates a genuine educational community – because everybody is growing and learning.
Other collaborators include Apple Education India (and UK) as we are using technology to innovate new learning platforms for our children. We are aiming to become an Apple Distinguished School in the future.
We have also partnered with Alma, a US Student Information System, and are the first to be using their product in India. Alma has been designed by teachers so is intuitive and flexible, which suits us so well. We are really looking forward to getting on board with them, and opening up the app for enhanced parent communication.
Paul Dass OBE and the British Education Centre in Delhi have very kindly shared their huge network of UK Universities with us in order to forge academic ties for the launch of A’Level launch in March 2020. Having direct access to universities abroad is a wonderful feather in our cap for our older students.
Finally, our strongest team is our parents. Without them, the word about Paradise could not have spread so far and wide. We literally went viral on the parent’s network from Goa to Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangalore – to LA, the UK, Europe. We barely advertise, yet our admissions have soared. We listen closely to parents and see them as an integral part of our self-organising community.
The location of the school, including the large Goan mansion with various residential rooms, appears most, unlike the conventional school building structure. What is the motive behind this?
North Goa, where the school is based, is really a series of rural, networked villages. So, there is no ready infrastructure for schools. But when Aurelia came on the market, I knew it was just perfect. A 400-year-old exquisitely restored Goan heritage mansion with large rooms and spacious proportions – ideal for an International School. The owner was very kind to allow us to set up our school there, for which we are eternally grateful. Many people call it a Digital Hogwarts, which makes us laugh. Outwardly, it’s an old building but inwardly it’s high-tech.
We have also now taken on a villa nearby for our Primary School, so we have two gorgeous buildings. Many families have moved to Aldona and surrounding villages to be by the schools, so the whole area is coming up and becoming a lovely school community, of which we are extremely proud.
However, this is just Paradise 1.0 and 2.0.
Paradise 3.0 is buying our own land and creating our own building. We’re putting this into place – talking to landowners, investors, architects. This will be our eco-futuristic vision of how a truly advanced 21st century school should look and behave. We cannot wait to share it with the world, and most of all – with our kids.
In a deeply reflective and engaging episode of the NEP Tunes podcast, Dr. Anju Chazot, education reformer and founder of Mahatma Gandhi International School (MGIS), Ahmedabad, sat down with Mrs. Anita Karwal, former Secretary of School Education, Government of India, to explore one fundamental question: How do we prepare children for a rapidly changing world?
Titled “Be the Change in the Changing World,” the episode offers a powerful conversation between two veterans of Indian education who have shared a decades-long friendship—and a mutual vision for a holistic and transformative school system.
“You can’t prepare children for tomorrow with the pedagogy of the day before yesterday.”
Drawing inspiration from John Dewey’s famous words, the episode begins by addressing the urgent need for policy literacy among stakeholders in education. Mrs. Karwal and Dr. Chazot underscore that the pace of global change—technological, environmental, economic, and emotional—has far outstripped the ability of traditional education systems to keep up. “We are in a VUCA world—volatile, uncertain, complex, ambiguous,” Karwal reminds listeners, calling for schools to adapt to this reality rather than resist it.
Decolonising the Classroom
A significant portion of the conversation focused on the historical context of schooling in India. Dr. Chazot draws parallels between today’s school system and Michel Foucault’s “cell and bell” model, which mirrors the prison system—marked by uniforms, bells, and rigid structures. Tracing the roots of modern schooling to the Prussian military model and colonial-era policies introduced by Lord Macaulay, both speakers lamented how education was once used as a tool to produce clerks for the Empire, rather than creative, entrepreneurial individuals.
“Colonialism didn’t just take away our resources; it colonised our minds,” Chazot observed. Karwal added, “The gurukul system was rooted, contextual, and sustainable. The colonial model replaced it with standardisation and control.”
Disruptions and the Call for Change
From climate change to AI, from the gig economy to rising mental health challenges—today’s youth are living in an era of non-stop disruptions. Mrs. Karwal shared a poignant insight: on the very day she retired from her government service (30 November 2022), OpenAI launched ChatGPT. “As a senior citizen, I would have felt useless had I not tried to understand this disruption,” she said, urging listeners to stay updated with technological trends.
Mental health also featured prominently in the discussion. The World Health Organization reports a 25% increase in global anxiety and depression cases, especially among the youth. Schools, Karwal said, must acknowledge and address this invisible epidemic, and create environments that are nurturing—not anxiety-inducing.
Why NEP 2020 Is a Game Changer
Against this backdrop, both educators believe the National Education Policy 2020 is a timely and visionary document. “It’s not just about academics—it’s about the whole child,” said Chazot, pointing to NEP’s focus on holistic development across cognitive, emotional, physical, and ethical domains.
Key elements of the NEP and the newly released National Curriculum Framework (NCF) discussed in the podcast include:
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A shift from rote learning to competency-based, experiential learning
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Focus on Indian traditions and cultural rootedness
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Moving away from exam-centric teaching, especially in early years
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Recognition of multilingualism and contextual learning
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Encouragement of critical thinking, creativity, and adaptability
“Learning to learn is the most essential skill of the future,” Karwal stressed. “Children must be ready to unlearn and relearn throughout life.”
The Future of Jobs
To illustrate the rapidly changing employment landscape, both speakers listed a host of emerging careers—from Prompt Engineers and Drone Fleet Managers to Climate Data Analysts and Digital Detox Specialists. “Just imagine,” Chazot quipped, “if I were a child again, I’d become a Prompt Engineer and finally fulfil my parents’ dreams of being an engineer—with a creative twist!”
Karwal, on the other hand, expressed a desire to become a Human-Machine Team Manager—a futuristic role bridging collaboration between people and machines.
Their message was clear: the world our children are entering is drastically different from the one their parents and teachers grew up in. And education must keep up.
A Takeaway Challenge for Listeners
To wrap up the episode, the hosts offered a unique call-to-action: ask yourself what job you would pick today if you could go back in time again. Then, explore new professions with your family or students. From LinkedIn job listings to the World Economic Forum’s reports, Karwal recommended several tools to research emerging careers. They invited listeners to write in with their findings and reflections.
“This exercise is not just for students,” said Dr. Chazot. “It’s for parents, teachers, and policy-makers alike. We must all become learners again.”
Final Thoughts
In an era where the only constant is change, the NEP Tunes podcast is a timely resource to help educators, parents, and students reimagine the purpose of schooling. With leaders like Anju Chazot and Anita Karwal at the helm of the conversation, the journey towards meaningful transformation in Indian education seems not only possible—but exciting.
🟡 This article is adapted from the NEP Tunes podcast hosted by Dr. Anju Chazot. You can listen to the full episode on YouTube. Here is the video-
Education
Sunbeam Indiranagar Shines in Academics, Arts, and Sports, Cementing Its Legacy of Holistic Education
Varanasi: Sunbeam Indiranagar, Varanasi, has emerged as a dynamic centre for academic excellence, cultural enrichment, and sporting achievements, reinforcing its commitment to holistic education. In a year marked by significant accomplishments, students and faculty have demonstrated a dedication to intellectual growth, creative expression, and leadership development, embodying the rich legacy of the Sunbeam Group.
The school’s approach extends beyond traditional academics, encouraging students to engage in parallel activities that nurture a well-rounded skill set. From literature festivals to classical dance championships, Sunbeam Indiranagar has provided students with platforms to explore, innovate, and excel.
Students had the opportunity to engage with global thought leaders through their participation in prestigious events such as the Jaipur Literature Festival and the Great Indian Learning Festival (GILF) at Daly College, organised by ScooNews. These experiences enabled them to explore contemporary literary and intellectual discussions, sharpening their analytical and creative abilities.
The performing arts department also made a mark with theatrical performances at Banaras Hindu University (BHU) and the Krishnamurti Foundation, under the guidance of renowned dramaturgist Mukherjee P.. The school’s commitment to developing critical thinking and communication skills was further reflected in students’ achievements in quizzes, creative writing, Olympiads, debates, and visual arts competitions, underscoring a culture of academic inquiry and artistic exploration.
Sunbeam Indiranagar’s focus on all-round development was evident in the State Level Kathak Championship, where students showcased their prowess in Indian classical dance. The school’s sporting achievements were equally impressive, with students excelling in the East Zone Skating Championship 2024 and the Open District Roller Championship 2024, securing both individual and team accolades. The school’s impact extends beyond student achievements, with its leadership being recognised for their visionary contributions to education. The Principal of Sunbeam Indiranagar was honoured with the Distinguished Educator for Future-Ready Skills award, securing All India Rank (AIR) 6 in the School Leader’s category by CENTA and receiving the Nari Shakti Sammaan for contributions towards empowering students through progressive learning methodologies.
Sunbeam Indiranagar’s standing as a leading educational institution was reaffirmed when it was ranked 5th among the Best Co-Ed Day Schools in Varanasi.
With its continued emphasis on holistic development, Sunbeam Indiranagar remains dedicated to shaping young minds, reinforcing its reputation as an institution that values learning in all its forms.
Education
Nagaland Schools Launch ‘Adolescent Girls Club’ to Empower Young Girls Under Mission Shakti
Adolescence is a pivotal phase in a child’s development, marked by rapid physical and psychological transformations. It is a time of exploration, self-discovery, and, often, vulnerability. To provide structured guidance and empower young girls during this crucial stage, Nagaland has introduced ‘Adolescent Girls Clubs’ in both government and private schools for girls aged 10-19 years under Mission Shakti.
On 5th October 2024, the first Adolescent Girls Club was launched at Don Bosco Higher Secondary School, Wokha, Nagaland, with 50 adolescent girls as its founding members. The initiative aims to equip girls with essential skills, knowledge, and support systems to navigate challenges, make informed choices, and build a strong foundation for their future. With the motto “Live the Promise,” the clubs aspire to develop confident, informed, and compassionate leaders of tomorrow.
The initiative is designed with key objectives to educate, uplift, and empower adolescent girls:
The Adolescent Girls Club will engage its members in workshops, mentorship programmes, health camps, community service projects, and creative expression activities. Additionally, a special adolescent toolkit is being developed to serve as a guide for both adolescent girls and their parents. The toolkit will include informational materials on menstrual hygiene management (MHH), mental health, teenage pregnancy prevention, child abuse awareness, and emergency helpline numbers.
Teachers and counsellors are actively working on IEC (Information, Education, and Communication) materials tailored to adolescent needs. The clubs will also conduct monthly activities to ensure continuous engagement, provide a platform for girls to discuss their concerns, and create a safe space for their growth and development.
This initiative under Mission Shakti is expected to positively impact thousands of young girls across Nagaland, equipping them with the necessary tools to navigate adolescence with confidence and resilience.Objectives of the Adolescent Girls Club
In a heartwarming recognition of dedication and innovation in education, Saudi Arabian teacher Mansour bin Abdullah Al-Mansour has been awarded the prestigious $1 million GEMS Education Global Teacher Prize. Announced at the World Governments Summit in Dubai, the award celebrates Al-Mansour’s transformative work in empowering students from low-income families, including hundreds of gifted orphans, and his 3,000+ hours of community service.
Al-Mansour, a teacher at Prince Saud bin Jalawi School in Al-Ahsa, has spent over two decades uplifting students facing academic challenges, disabilities, and financial hardships. His efforts include establishing mentorship programmes, innovation incubators, and financial literacy initiatives, enabling students to achieve global recognition. Notably, he plans to use the prize money to build a school for talented orphans, furthering his mission to provide quality education to underprivileged children.
(Image: Mansour Al Mansour- 2025 Global Teacher Prize Winner)
Beyond the classroom, Al-Mansour has authored 21 educational books, trained over 300 educators, and led literacy programmes for prison inmates, helping reduce sentences for some. His work has earned him accolades as an international ambassador for educational excellence.
The Global Teacher Prize, now in its ninth year, recognises exceptional educators who make a profound impact on their communities. Al-Mansour was selected from over 5,000 nominations across 89 countries, joining a prestigious list of global educators.
Sunny Varkey, Founder of the Global Teacher Prize, praised Al-Mansour’s “passion, dedication, and the life-changing power of education.” Stefania Giannini, UNESCO Assistant Director-General for Education, highlighted the importance of investing in teachers to build a sustainable future.
As the world faces challenges like inequality and climate change, Al-Mansour’s story serves as a beacon of hope, reminding us of the transformative power of education and the unsung heroes shaping our future.
The Ministry of Women and Child Development is set to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the Beti Bachao Beti Padhao (BBBP) scheme, a landmark initiative aimed at protecting, educating, and empowering the girl child. Launched on 22 January 2015 in Panipat, Haryana, the scheme has evolved into a national movement that addresses gender discrimination and fosters societal change towards valuing and empowering girls and women.
The inaugural event on 22 January 2025 at Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi, was attended by Union Ministers Shri J. P. Nadda and Smt. Annpurna Devi, alongside international representatives from UNICEF, UN Women, and other global organisations. Women officers from various sectors and girl students joined the event, which featured an oath-taking ceremony and the launch of compendiums and digital initiatives such as Mission Vatsalya and Mission Shakti portals.
The celebrations, spanning until International Women’s Day on 8 March 2025, will include rallies, cultural events, and campaigns at state and district levels. Schools, community groups, and women achievers will actively participate in activities under SANKALP: Hub for Empowerment of Women. Nationwide media campaigns and sustainable practices such as a plantation drive will amplify the scheme’s message.
In its decade-long journey, BBBP has sparked a nationwide dialogue on gender equality, challenging societal biases and championing the rights and dignity of women. The scheme’s accomplishments include a rise in the national Sex Ratio at Birth from 918 in 2014-15 to 930 in 2023-24, an increase in institutional deliveries to 97.3%, and higher enrolment of girls in secondary education, now at 78%. Initiatives such as the Kanya Shiksha Pravesh Utsav and Yashaswini Bike Expedition have further underscored the scheme’s impact.
Through collaboration with partner ministries, the mission of this campaign is to advancing gender equality, ensuring girls become active leaders of change and shaping a more inclusive India.
As India celebrates nine years of the Startup India initiative on National Startup Day, 16 January 2025, it’s evident how deeply the entrepreneurial spirit has been embedded in the nation’s fabric. From being a country of aspiring doctors and engineers to a hub for budding entrepreneurs, India has undergone a significant transformation. This shift isn’t confined to adults but is increasingly taking root in schools, where the next generation of business leaders is being nurtured.
The Entrepreneurial Wave in Schools
Startup culture has permeated classrooms, with students now creating and marketing products under professional guidance. Chemistry labs aren’t just for experiments anymore; they’ve become mini manufacturing units. Students are crafting innovative products—think handmade soaps, eco-friendly cleaning agents, and even tech gadgets—and selling them under their school’s brand. This hands-on experience in entrepreneurship is teaching them valuable lessons in problem-solving, teamwork, and financial literacy, far beyond traditional academics.
Shows like Shark Tank India have also played a crucial role in shaping young minds. These programmes, widely watched across TV and OTT platforms, have demystified entrepreneurship for students and parents alike. By showcasing real-life success stories, they’ve encouraged families to view entrepreneurship as a viable career path, on par with medicine or engineering.
Schools as Incubators of Ideas
Schools today are recognising their potential to act as incubators for future business leaders. Many are introducing entrepreneurship programmes, collaborating with startups, and organising business pitch competitions. These initiatives allow students to explore their interests and learn the intricacies of building a business—from ideation and prototyping to marketing and scaling.
Some schools have even created dedicated innovation labs and partnered with local businesses for mentorship opportunities. These setups not only foster creativity but also give students exposure to the practical aspects of running a business. Such efforts align perfectly with the government’s Startup India initiative, which has championed innovation and inclusivity for nearly a decade.
Why This Matters for the Future
Entrepreneurship isn’t just about creating businesses; it’s about fostering a mindset. Students who grow up in this environment are better equipped to tackle real-world challenges, think creatively, and adapt to changing circumstances. These skills are invaluable, whether they eventually choose to run their own business or work within an organisation.
Moreover, promoting entrepreneurship in schools has a ripple effect. It not only prepares students for the future but also inspires communities and contributes to economic growth. Schools that actively engage in such initiatives are setting a precedent for holistic education that balances academics with life skills.
What Next?
With over 1.59 lakh startups now recognised in India, the country has become a global hub of innovation. Schools must seize this moment to integrate entrepreneurial education into their curriculums actively. By doing so, they will not only align with national objectives but also prepare students for a world that values innovation and adaptability above all.
As we celebrate National Startup Day, let’s look forward to a future where classrooms double as boardrooms and students graduate not just with degrees but with dreams ready to take flight.
On 12 January each year, India celebrates National Youth Day, commemorating the birth anniversary of Swami Vivekananda—a visionary whose ideals continue to inspire generations. His emphasis on courage, self-discipline, and selflessness laid the foundation for building a nation of empowered youth. Yet, as we reflect on his teachings, a poignant question arises: if Swami Vivekananda were alive today, would he be proud of the state of India’s youth?
A Disturbing Landscape
Despite remarkable strides in education, technology, and global recognition, troubling statistics reveal a different narrative. Reports show a disheartening rise in suicides among young students, with academic pressure, bullying, and mental health struggles emerging as significant factors. According to the National Crime Records Bureau, India recorded over 13,000 student suicides in 2022—a grim reminder of the challenges our youth face.
Swami Vivekananda famously said, “Arise, awake, and stop not till the goal is reached.” But how do we encourage this awakening in an environment that often prioritises grades over mental well-being, competition over collaboration, and individual success over collective growth?
Polarisation and Division
In his landmark address at the Parliament of the World’s Religions in Chicago, Vivekananda envisioned a harmonious world, where mutual respect and inclusivity thrived. Yet, incidents of hate crimes in educational institutions paint a different picture. Instead of fostering understanding, many schools struggle to counter narratives of division and intolerance, which are seeping into the minds of impressionable young individuals.
Vaping is Cool!
Another alarming trend is the increasing prevalence of substance abuse and vaping among teenagers. Easy accessibility and peer influence have made vapes and drugs a growing concern in schools and colleges. Vivekananda’s ideal of youth as paragons of strength and discipline seems to clash with a reality where momentary fun triumphs responsibility.
Are We Listening to the Youth?
One of Vivekananda’s core messages was to listen and understand the needs of the youth, not dictate them. Today’s students crave purpose and authenticity in their pursuits. Yet, our education system largely remains exam-centric, with limited focus on developing emotional resilience, moral values, and critical thinking skills.
The rise of mental health issues highlights the urgent need for robust counselling frameworks in schools. Bullying, academic stress, and societal expectations weigh heavily on students. Swamiji believed in holistic education that nourished the body, mind, and soul—a vision that modern-day institutions must strive to achieve.
The Path Forward
- Mental Health Awareness: Schools must normalise conversations about mental health. Hiring trained counsellors and introducing life skills education can empower students to cope with stress and trauma.
- Fostering Inclusivity: Combatting polarisation starts with creating safe spaces for dialogue. Schools can champion diversity and empathy through collaborative activities and community-driven projects.
- Balanced Education: Beyond academic excellence, education must focus on creativity, moral values, and societal contributions—aligning with Vivekananda’s philosophy of balanced personal and communal growth.
- Youth Empowerment: Engage students in decision-making processes within educational institutions, giving them a sense of ownership and responsibility.
- Combatting Addictions: Early intervention and peer education programmes can deter substance abuse. Incorporating discussions on self-control and the consequences of addiction is crucial.
A Call to Action
If Swami Vivekananda were here today, he might be disheartened by some of these realities but would undoubtedly call upon educators, parents, and leaders to rise to the occasion. The Indian youth remain a powerful force capable of leading transformative change, provided they are equipped with the right guidance and support.
As educators and leaders, we must ask ourselves: Are we nurturing the kind of youth Swami Vivekananda dreamed of? Are we empowering them with the tools to think critically, act compassionately, and embrace diversity? Or are we just celebrating the day just for the sake of it? We need to ask real questions. The answers lie in our collective efforts to reshape the educational and societal systems influencing young minds.
Swami Vivekananda’s timeless words echo loudly: “The youth are the pillars of the nation.” It is upon us to ensure that these pillars stand strong, united, and unwavering, ready to lead India toward a brighter and more inclusive future.
Education
CBSE to Introduce Two-Level Structure for Science and Social Science in Classes 9 and 10 by 2026
The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) is set to introduce a two-level structure for Science and Social Science subjects in Classes 9 and 10, starting from the 2026–2027 academic session. This move follows the successful implementation of two-level mathematics examinations—Standard and Basic—for Class 10 students in the 2019–2020 session.
The decision aligns with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which advocates offering subjects at varying difficulty levels to reduce academic pressure and counter the coaching culture. The proposed structure aims to give students the option to study some subjects at a higher level while taking others at a standard level.
Key Details of the Plan
According to Hindustan Times, the CBSE curriculum council has already approved the proposal, and final approval from the Board’s governing body is awaited. The initiative seeks to empower students who demonstrate an aptitude for Science and Social Science to study these subjects in greater depth before transitioning to Class 11.
For Mathematics, which currently offers two levels, the syllabus remains the same for both Standard and Basic levels, but the difficulty and format of the question papers differ. A similar approach is likely for Science and Social Science, although details are yet to be finalised. Advanced-level students may be provided with supplementary learning resources, alternative textbooks, or the same textbooks with additional challenges and problems.
Implementation Framework
The implementation of this two-tier system depends on the development of updated textbooks by the National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT). As part of the ongoing curriculum reform under NEP 2020, the NCERT has already released new textbooks for Classes 1, 2, 3, and 6, with materials for Classes 4, 5, 7, and 8 expected in the 2025–2026 academic year. Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan has indicated that all updated textbooks are likely to be available by January 2026.
Students will likely have a window to choose between the standard and advanced levels and may be allowed to switch within a stipulated timeframe. The advanced level could include longer study hours and distinct question papers for Board examinations.
By offering this flexibility, the CBSE aims to provide students with opportunities tailored to their abilities, enabling them to excel academically without undue stress.
Education
Jaipur History Festival 2024: India’s Biggest History Festival Returns with a Unique Focus on Financial Literacy and Folk Arts
The Jaipur History Festival (JHF), an annual event organised by the Maharaja Sawai Man Singh II Museum Trust, is set to host its 2024 edition from 3rd to 6th December at the iconic City Palace in Jaipur. Established in 2017, the JHF has become a flagship event in India’s cultural calendar, earning widespread recognition from educational institutions, policymakers, and media alike. This year’s theme, “Financial Literacy Through Folk Arts,” promises an engaging blend of tradition and modernity, offering innovative learning experiences for over 10,000 students and educators.
A Groundbreaking Theme: Financial Literacy Through Folk Tales
The 2024 festival theme uniquely integrates financial literacy into education through the rich tradition of Indian and global folk tales. Stories from the Panchatantra, Jataka tales, Akbar-Birbal, Sheikh Chilli, Mulla Nasruddin, Tenali Rama, and Munshi Premchand’s literary classics will serve as mediums to impart essential financial skills. Lessons on budgeting, saving, and understanding the distinction between needs and wants will be creatively woven into folk art performances, ensuring that students grasp these critical concepts in an engaging, memorable way.
Aligned with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, this initiative emphasises values-based education while nurturing practical skills like wealth management and fraud prevention. The programme targets primary and secondary school students, fostering early financial literacy to help shape a generation of financially savvy individuals.
Festival Highlights
The four-day festival will feature a diverse array of performances, workshops, and exhibitions, including:
- Plays based on Munshi Premchand’s works like Nirmala, Kafan, and Gaban.
- Traditional art forms such as Dastan-e-Goi, Kathak recitals, and Rajasthani folk dances.
- Live music performances in Hindi, Marwari, and English, focusing on financial literacy themes.
- Craft workshops and installations, including kites, puppets, Kalighat paintings, and paper mache models.
- Interactive exhibits, such as Rashmi Rath (E-Car), bioscopes, and Jantar Mantar sundial paper models.
- Workshops on modern educational tools like AI-powered graphic generation and business plan incubation.
Morning cultural programmes will be followed by exhibitions and craft workshops, creating a holistic learning environment for attendees.
National Reach and Global Aspirations
The Jaipur History Festival 2024 will welcome participation from over 120 schools nationwide. Following the grand success of previous editions, this year’s festival aims to expand its footprint by hosting sessions in prominent educational hubs like Gurgaon, Delhi, Mumbai, and Jammu.
The Legacy of JHF
Since its inception, the Jaipur History Festival has aimed to revolutionise traditional education through experiential learning and cultural immersion. Themes from previous years have ranged from Gandhi’s Rivers of India to “Phad Se Padh,” focusing on Rajasthan’s Phad paintings. In 2023, the festival celebrated the “International Year of Millets,” showcasing the intersection of cultural heritage and global sustainability efforts.
With its steadfast commitment to innovation and inclusivity, JHF 2024 promises to be a transformative experience, inspiring educators, students, and parents to rethink the way history and life skills are taught in schools.
Looking Ahead
As India’s largest history festival, JHF exemplifies how education can be both meaningful and engaging. By merging traditional folk arts with contemporary financial literacy, the festival not only preserves cultural heritage but also equips students with life skills essential for the modern world.
This year’s edition is poised to set a new benchmark in interdisciplinary education, fostering creativity, critical thinking, and a deeper appreciation for India’s diverse cultural tapestry.
In a significant step towards enhancing the skill development ecosystem in education, the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) and the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on 21 November 2024 in Bhubaneswar, Odisha. This collaboration aims to introduce and promote commerce-focused skill courses, particularly in the banking, financial services, and insurance (BFSI) sector, to boost students’ employability and career readiness.
The ICAI, through its Committee on Career Counselling, will contribute its expertise in curriculum design, syllabus development, study materials, and training modules. Additionally, the organisation will play an active role in career guidance initiatives, participating in workshops and training programmes organised by CBSE.
Addressing the importance of the partnership, ICAI President CA Ranjeet Kumar Agarwal stated, “The signing of this MoU with the CBSE is a significant step towards enhancing the skill development ecosystem for students across the country. Through this collaboration, ICAI aims to promote commerce-based skill courses and ensure that students are equipped with relevant, industry-aligned competencies. This partnership reflects our commitment to bridging the gap between academic learning and professional requirements, and we are confident that it will open new avenues for students to pursue rewarding careers in accountancy and finance.”
The collaboration will also focus on raising awareness about career opportunities in accountancy and related fields, aligning educational frameworks with the evolving demands of the job market. CBSE and ICAI plan to conduct awareness programmes for principals, teachers, and school management teams in CBSE-affiliated schools across India. These programmes will highlight the importance of BFSI-related skill courses and their potential to enhance students’ career trajectories.
As part of this initiative, CBSE will organise capacity-building initiatives to upskill teachers in commerce-related subjects, ensuring they are well-equipped to deliver specialised courses effectively.
ICAI has already established similar collaborations with 85 universities, colleges, and educational institutions to promote academic excellence, research, and knowledge exchange. According to The Indian Express, these initiatives aim to create a workforce equipped to meet the challenges of a modern, dynamic economy.
This partnership underscores a growing commitment to aligning education with industry needs, preparing students for thriving careers in commerce and finance.
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