Let’s take a walk through a memory we all share. Picture a classroom from years ago—rows of desks filled with students, and at the front, a teacher, often feared, seldom questioned. The boundaries were clear, and so was the unspoken rule: the teacher was the ultimate authority. For many, respect wasn’t earned; it was demanded, and it was often respect cloaked in fear.

Now fast forward to today. Walk into a classroom and you might notice a shift, subtle yet profound. It’s not the same classroom anymore, and the role of the teacher has evolved. But here’s the catch: while education has progressed, our respect for the role of the teacher seems to have lagged behind. Today, on Teacher’s Day, it’s worth asking—why are the true nation-builders, the ones shaping our future, often undervalued and underpaid?

Perhaps the answer lies in how we’ve misunderstood what a teacher really is. For too long, society has viewed them merely as deliverers of information, bearers of authority. But teachers are so much more than that. They are the silent architects of our minds, the ones who help build the bridges between what we know and what we have yet to discover. Yet, somewhere along the way, we began to take this for granted.

The Shift from Fear to Friendship

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There was a time when respect was born out of fear. Teachers ruled with a strict hand, their word was law, and questioning them was unthinkable. But was that true respect, or just submission disguised as respect? Today, we are seeing a new wave, where the teacher-student relationship needs to be redefined, not by fear but by mutual respect, communication, and, yes, even friendship.

But let’s be clear—friendship here doesn’t mean a blurring of boundaries. It doesn’t mean a loss of authority or a casualness that erases the lines of respect. Instead, it’s a different kind of connection. Teachers no longer stand on a pedestal looking down; they stand beside, guiding students through their own paths, understanding that each student’s journey is different.

Communication is key. It’s in the conversations where teachers take time to know their students, not just as learners but as individuals. It’s in the way they listen as much as they speak, creating an environment where students feel heard, valued, and respected. In turn, this earns the teacher a respect that is deeper and more lasting than the fear-based reverence of the past.

Why Do We Undervalue the Nation Builders?

Despite this evolution in the role of teachers, why does it feel like they are still fighting an uphill battle for recognition? In a world where education is hailed as the foundation of success, why are the people responsible for delivering that education often the ones most undervalued?

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Part of the problem lies in how we measure success. Teachers don’t build skyscrapers, but they build the minds that will one day design them. They don’t operate on stock markets, but they shape the critical thinkers who will one day make important decisions. Their work is not tangible in the moment—it takes years, sometimes generations, to see the full impact of a teacher’s influence. And perhaps that’s why we forget.

We forget that every doctor, every scientist, every artist, and every leader was once a student sitting at a desk, shaped by a teacher’s encouragement or wisdom. And if we continue to undervalue teachers, we run the risk of weakening the very foundation upon which we build our future.

Redefining the Role, Rekindling Respect

So, how do we redefine this relationship? How do we remind ourselves, and society, of the immense value teachers bring? It starts with respect—respect that is not just expected, but earned through communication, understanding, and empathy.

Teachers need to be seen not just as authority figures but as mentors, guides, and facilitators of growth. This shift is already happening in many classrooms around the world, where teachers are creating spaces that are less about control and more about collaboration. They are empowering students to think for themselves, encouraging curiosity, and fostering a love for learning that will last long after the classroom doors have closed.

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And in return, students are responding with a new kind of respect—one that comes from understanding that their teacher is not just there to lecture, but to guide, to support, and to inspire.

A Personal Yet Universal Connection

Whether you are 15 or 50, we’ve all had that one teacher. The one who went beyond the textbook, who saw something in us we didn’t see in ourselves. The one who stayed a little later after class to help, or who asked how we were doing when no one else did. That’s the power of a real teacher-student relationship, one that goes beyond authority and delves into mentorship.

On this Teacher’s Day, let’s redefine what it means to be a teacher. Let’s not just celebrate them, but value them in a way that goes beyond one day of appreciation. Let’s pay them what they’re worth, respect them for the role they play in our society, and recognise that the future of our world is, quite literally, in their hands.

Because the truth is, without teachers, there is no future. And that is something we can all understand, no matter our age.

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In light of the recent reports about sex-related crimes, it’s natural to ask, “How much worse can it get?” But, “How can we make it better?” is perhaps a better question. This article explores solutions that schools, educators, society, and we as individuals can implement. Ultimately, we have a choice: either remain trapped in a vicious cycle that fosters sex offenders or teach lessons of equality, empathy, and equity to shape a safer future for our country.

Rapists are not born, they are made. They emerge when seemingly normal actions subtly elevate men above the basic principles of humanity. For example, when boys are asked to sit with girls in schools as a “punishment,” when boys are not encouraged to form healthy friendships with girls, or when girls are told to dress a certain way, concealing their individuality and their skin, these experiences serve the dual purpose of making girls feel inferior and leading boys to believe that everything wrong with society is somehow related to women. If such harmful beliefs can be taught, then lessons of empathy, respect, and equality should be even easier to instil. Proper sex education, paired with eradicating the long-standing practice of asking only girls to adapt, can help dismantle these erroneous beliefs by promoting gender equality and mutual respect.

Gender-based stereotypes that focus on what a student ‘should’ do rather than what they ‘can’ do also create an implicit obligation to follow a set path, whether towards family, profession, or society. The human mind is a pattern recogniser—we see things and assume them to be the rule. Thus, when children see their parents taking responsibility for certain tasks at home, they assume this is what happens in every household, in every place. Parents need to constantly challenge gender stereotypes to prevent their children from learning them. By dividing kitchen duties, having both parents buy essentials, both making payments, and both participating in home repairs, parents can demonstrate that duties or jobs are not assigned by gender, thereby teaching gender equality.

Sex education is also seen as a crucial solution. We’ve discussed its importance, read about its significance, and debated its benefits. Yet, we’ve failed to give it the academic and societal attention it truly deserves. With children now having unprecedented access to technology, and experiencing both the wonders and horrors of the world, addressing this issue has become even more crucial. 

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While efforts have been made to make sex education a mandatory course for adolescents, many states have opposed the idea, altering the course content to suit their preferences. Some schools have even gone to the extent of substituting the word “sex” with “adolescent” in the curriculum. The lack of proper sex education only exacerbates unhealthy attitudes towards sex, allowing non-consensual encounters and gender-based violence to persist. A study conducted on American students found a 56% reduction in the likelihood of sexual assault among those who received comprehensive sex education compared to those who did not. (This study, along with many others, published in the Journal of Adolescent Health, highlights the benefits of sex education, including a better understanding of consent, a decrease in unwanted pregnancies and STIs, and a reduction in sexual violence and marital rape.)

We have always waited for the government, society, and the elites to recognise problems and take action, but we often fail to realise that we are the ones who shape the government, society, and elites. When we unlearn these problematic ideologies, we create a society that doesn’t victim blame, takes serious action against heinous crimes, and welcomes people into workplaces based on their talents and merit, not on the sex they were assigned at birth. Education can either build or break the future citizens of a country. When we make these changes on our own level, we shape the future law-makers, law enforcers, and law-abiding citizens. The future is indeed in our hands.

This article is authored by Sanvi Agarwal, a Law Aspirant, passionate about women rights, gender equality, and social justice

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The world around us continues to grow, and we have emerged as a society that develops, innovates, and focuses on becoming more aware of its surroundings. Whether it is inventing new devices or addressing social issues, education is fundamental to our hope for a better future.

Indian education has evolved over many years to become what it looks like today.  During the Vedic period, the teacher-student bond was focused on holistic development. After British colonisation, the curriculum shifted towards creating more “clerks,” emphasising mathematics and science over subjects like astronomy, philosophy, and metaphysics.

Since gaining independence, the primary focus has been to reform the education system to help every child reach their full potential and excel academically. It’s undeniable that our country is brimming with talented young individuals. Today, our citizens hold prominent positions in international companies, engage in groundbreaking research, and make meaningful contributions on a global scale. Our system aims to acquaint students with a wide range of subjects so that they have a basic understanding of each before choosing their specialised field. This approach allows students to acquire broad knowledge, providing them with a better understanding of various fields rather than delving deeply into the specifics right away.

In the current times, the focus should be more on how things are taught to our students. Let’s imagine a history class where a teacher is giving a lecture. Many of us might envision students getting bored and yawning, worrying about having to memorise a bunch of dates. This is the problem – we have become too reliant on rote learning, and our goal of learning has been reduced to simply regurgitating information on answer sheets during exams. With the increasing emphasis on competitive exams in our country, it has become common for students to study just for the sake of it. In the long term, this takes away the joy of learning new things altogether. While exams and assessments are necessary, students should be made aware that they are meant to assess their conceptual understanding and encourage more efficient learning, rather than succumbing to academic stress. Rote learning and memorization are important tools for learning, but students should be made aware of their purpose and utility so they understand why they are studying what they are studying.

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It has been 14 years since the release of the famous Bollywood movie “3 Idiots,” and the question it asked is still very intriguing and relevant to us all: “How many students are excited that they will get to learn something new today?” It still feels like a utopian dream to imagine a classroom where all hands go up. Perhaps we can integrate values from our ancient style of education and combine them with our modern ways to establish a system that harbours students’ curiosity, gives them the space to ask questions, and provides them with more opportunities and choices to learn subjects that fascinate their interest.

This article is authored by-
Vibhuti Singh,
Student

In recent years, the acronym STEM, which stands for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics, has become a focal point in discussions about education reform and workforce development. However, an increasing number of educators and policymakers advocate for the inclusion of the Arts, transforming STEM into STEAM. Integrating the arts into STEM education is not merely a trend but a vital shift that enhances creativity, critical thinking, and innovation.

Enhancing Creativity and Innovation

In fields like engineering and technology, where problem-solving is key, the ability to think creatively is invaluable. For instance, a student working on a design project in a robotics class might use principles from visual arts to create a more aesthetically pleasing and functional design.

The arts also foster an environment where experimentation is encouraged. Unlike traditional STEM subjects, where there might be a single correct answer, the arts embrace ambiguity and exploration. This mindset can lead to breakthroughs in STEM fields.

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Improving Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving Skills

Integrating the arts into STEM education enhances critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Artistic endeavours often require students to analyse, interpret, and make decisions based on incomplete or abstract information. These skills are directly transferable to STEM disciplines. For example, a musician must interpret a piece of music and make decisions about phrasing and dynamics, just as a scientist must interpret data and make decisions about experimental procedures.

Moreover, the arts teach students to embrace failure as a learning opportunity. In artistic processes, iterations and revisions are part of the journey toward a final product. This approach is equally important in STEM fields, where initial experiments or designs often fail, and resilience and adaptability are crucial for success.

Bridging the Gap Between Disciplines

The integration of arts into STEM helps in bridging the gap between disciplines, fostering a holistic approach to education. Traditional education often compartmentalizes subjects, but real-world problems do not fit neatly into these boxes. By blending the arts with STEM, students learn to apply diverse skills and knowledge to solve complex problems.

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For example, environmental science projects can benefit from artistic skills in visualizing data and communicating findings through compelling infographics or presentations. Similarly, architecture, which inherently combines engineering and design, requires a balance of technical skills and artistic vision.

Engaging and Motivating Students

Another critical aspect of STEAM education is its ability to engage and motivate students. Many students who might be intimidated by or disinterested in traditional STEM subjects find the integration of the arts makes these subjects more accessible and enjoyable. By incorporating artistic elements, educators can reach a broader range of students, tapping into diverse interests and talents.

For instance, incorporating music or drama into a math lesson can make abstract concepts more tangible and memorable. An art project that involves creating geometric patterns can help students understand mathematical principles in a hands-on and visually engaging way. These interdisciplinary projects can ignite a passion for learning and inspire students to pursue careers in STEM fields.

Preparing for the Future Workforce

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The modern job market increasingly values skills such as creativity, collaboration, and communication—skills that are cultivated through the arts. Employers prefer individuals who can think creatively, work efficiently in teams, and have good communication skills. STEAM education helps develop these competencies, making students more versatile and adaptable.

Furthermore, the integration of arts into STEM aligns with the demands of the 21st-century economy, where innovation is key to competitiveness. Industries ranging from technology to healthcare to manufacturing benefit from employees who can integrate technical expertise with creative problem-solving abilities.

In conclusion, the importance of incorporating the arts into STEM education cannot be overstated. STEAM education enhances creativity, improves critical thinking, bridges disciplinary gaps, engages students, and prepares them for the future workforce. As we move towards an increasingly complex and interconnected world, the integration of the arts into STEM will be crucial in developing well-rounded individuals capable of tackling the challenges of tomorrow. By embracing STEAM, we not only enrich education but also empower students to become the innovative leaders of the future.

This article is authored by- 
Richa Thakur,
PRT- Math
Khaitan Public School, Rajender Nagar, Sector-5, Sahibabad, U.P.

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Today is the Kargil Vijay Diwas, a day of victory for the Indian armed forces celebrating 25 years of victory in the Kargil War of 1999. This day represents pride and strength of the nation, as well as a reminder of the price that is paid in any armed conflict. While appreciating the courage and the efforts of our soldiers on this day, it is equally important to explain its importance to our children.

Understanding the wars of the past is essential for the younger generation. The Kargil War was a high-altitude conflict between India and Pakistan, fought in the treacherous terrain of the Kargil district in Jammu and Kashmir. Despite the harsh conditions and the strategic disadvantage, the Indian Army emerged victorious, reclaiming the occupied territories. This victory, achieved through immense bravery and sacrifice, is a testament to the indomitable spirit of our armed forces.

It is always good to celebrate victories in war as a sign of prowess, but it is equally important to pass this message to the young: War should always be the last solution. These depictions of bravery during the Kargil War should evoke feelings of respect and gratitude for those who sacrifice their lives to secure our freedom and security. However, it should also highlight the importance of peace and non-violence. India’s history is rich with examples of resolving conflicts through diplomacy and non-violence, a legacy of ahimsa championed by leaders like Mahatma Gandhi.

Schools play a pivotal role in shaping the perspectives of young minds. By incorporating lessons on the Kargil War and other significant historical conflicts, educators can instil a deeper appreciation for the freedom and security that we often take for granted. These lessons should not only be of triumphs in battle; they should also include the destruction and suffering that war entails. This way, students will be able to appreciate the efforts of the soldiers and have a deeper respect for the armed forces and their principles.

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However, it is also important to complement these stories with the ones of peace and diplomatic victories. Explaining India’s policy of non-violence and the use of diplomacy in the conflict can help children learn about the benefits of living in harmony with others and the effectiveness of negotiations over fighting. This dual approach makes sure that while we are rejoicing and acknowledging our champions, we are also promoting peace and proper utilization of authority.

Therefore, Kargil Vijay Diwas is not only a day of victory and celebration but also a day when our children should be made aware of the bitter truth of war and the need for peace. In this way, we can raise a generation that appreciates freedom, honors the soldiers’ sacrifices, and aims at a society where people solve their problems with understanding and not violence.

Today, on World Emoji Day, let’s celebrate these small, expressive icons that have become an integral part of our digital communication. While some argue that emojis threaten the sanctity of language, there’s a fun, quirky side to these tiny pictures that can actually enhance classroom interactions, making them more relevant, polite, and engaging.

Remember the thrill of getting a gold star on your homework? That star wasn’t just a sticker; it was a symbol of achievement, recognition, and encouragement. In many ways, emojis serve a similar purpose. They convey emotions and reactions succinctly and can add a personal touch to written communication. So, why not harness the power of emojis to make our classrooms more dynamic and student-friendly?

1. Enhancing Feedback: Traditionally, teachers use phrases like “good job” or “well done” to praise students. But imagine the added excitement if those words were accompanied by a clapping hands emoji 👏, a star ⭐, or even a trophy 🏆. Such visual cues can amplify the impact of positive feedback, making it more memorable and encouraging for students. Conversely, gentle reminders can be softened with a thoughtful emoji. For instance, a neutral face 😐 or a thinking face 🤔 could be used to indicate that a student might need to revisit a particular concept without causing undue stress or discouragement.

2. Encouraging Polite Communication: Emojis can also help maintain a polite and respectful tone in classroom discussions. For example, if a student disagrees with a peer, using a handshake emoji 🤝 or a smiling face 😊 can convey their differing opinion respectfully. This approach can foster a culture of kindness and consideration, crucial for productive and positive learning environments.

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3. Making Learning Fun: Integrating emojis into lesson plans can make learning more interactive and enjoyable. Teachers can create emoji-based quizzes where students match emojis to historical events, literary characters, or scientific concepts. For example, an apple 🍎 and a book 📖 could be used in a quiz about famous inventors, prompting students to guess Isaac Newton. These activities not only make lessons more engaging but also encourage creative thinking.

4. Bridging Language Gaps: In classrooms with diverse linguistic backgrounds, emojis can serve as a universal language, helping bridge communication gaps. A thumbs-up 👍, a heart ❤️, or a smiling face 😀 can convey appreciation and support across different languages, fostering inclusivity and mutual understanding.

5. Digital Citizenship: As students increasingly navigate the digital world, teaching them about appropriate emoji use is crucial. Educators can incorporate lessons on digital etiquette, highlighting how emojis can enhance communication when used appropriately but can also be misinterpreted or cause misunderstandings if overused or used incorrectly.

6. Custom Emojis for Classroom Culture: Teachers can create custom emojis that reflect their unique classroom culture. For instance, a specific emoji could symbolize a class mascot, a special event, or a unique classroom achievement. This personal touch can strengthen the sense of community and belonging among students.

In conclusion, emojis are not a threat to language; rather, they are an evolution of it. They offer a unique and fun way to enrich classroom communication, making feedback more impactful, interactions more polite, and learning more enjoyable. So, on this World Emoji Day, let’s embrace these expressive icons and unlock their potential to make our classrooms brighter, kinder, and more engaging places to learn. 🌟🎉📚

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Amongst all other animated movies, ‘Inside Out’ not only stands out due to its new way of telling stories but also for its profound study into the human mind. It was a 2015 release from Pixar Animation Studios that looked at emotions in a very complicated manner, focusing on how an 11-year-old girl called Riley operates internally. As I saw the sequel “Inside Out 2,” in a theatre full of parents, kids, and young adults, it is important to revisit what we learnt in the original film and why it should be watched by teenagers and their parents.

“Inside Out” personifies five primary emotions: Joy, Sadness, Anger, Fear and Disgust. These are the characters that walk with Riley through life’s difficulties especially after her family moved to another city. This movie ingeniously demonstrates this emotional rollercoaster which accompanies such major changes making it relatable for children as well as adults.” Inside Out” helps adolescents who often cope with multiple emotional issues identify and understand that they are real.

Teenagers usually feel overwhelmed by growing up’s flood of emotions. The transformations accompanying the shift from childhood to adolescence are generally confusing and hard to express in words. “Inside Out” addresses these changes by showing that it’s normal to experience a wide range of emotions, sometimes all at once. Riley’s journey teaches teenagers that it’s okay to feel Joy, Sadness, Anger, Fear, and Disgust; these emotions are all part of the human experience.

Among the most touching messages of the film is that one must accept all the emotional states, not only positive ones. Joy, at first, tries to put Sadness aside and believes Riley should always be happy. Eventually however Joy realizes Sadness is vital for Riley’s emotional health. This could be a great revelation for teenagers who are mostly pressured to maintain an image of being ever-happy. “Inside Out” teaches them that it’s okay to feel sad and that acknowledging and expressing this emotion is a crucial part of emotional well-being.

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As for parents, “Inside Out” serves as a gentle yet powerful reminder on why empathy and open communication are important in parenting. With our curriculum known for its single-minded commitment towards good grades and high moral standards, mental health has often been pushed aside. This movie indicates that one way of doing this is by understanding the children’s emotions’ needs. Parents can watch Inside out with an aim of learning how they can create an atmosphere where their children will have freedom to express themselves without fear.

The characters’ interactions in Riley’s mind might help parents understand how complex their teenager’s emotional world can be sometimes. As soon as they see that each emotion contributes to Riley’s overall wellbeing, parents may grow more patient and empathetic toward their children’s emotional struggles. This understanding is pivotal in nurturing a child’s emotional health and building a strong, supportive relationship.

“Inside Out 2,” introduces new emotions like Anxiety, Envy, Ennui, and Embarrassment, and makes it clear that the emotional landscape becomes more intricate as children grow into teenagers. The sequel delves deeper into the emotional challenges that accompany adolescence. A memorable scene from the upcoming film features Anxiety taking over from Joy, emphasising the need for more sophisticated emotions to navigate Riley’s more complex life. This transition is a stark reminder that growing up is not just about physical changes but also about evolving emotional needs.

One of the critical aspects of “Inside Out” and its sequel is the portrayal of anxiety. In the sequel, Anxiety explains that Riley’s life now requires more sophisticated emotions. This portrayal can help teenagers and their parents understand that anxiety is not inherently bad. Instead, it’s a natural response to challenging situations. The film can be an essential tool in discussing mental health issues like panic attacks, which are often overlooked in Indian communities.

By presenting anxiety as a part of Riley’s emotional toolkit, “Inside Out 2” can teach teenagers to listen to their inner voice and reassure themselves that everything will be okay, even in difficult situations. This understanding can help them develop healthier coping mechanisms and reduce the stigma associated with anxiety and other mental health issues.

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Inside Out is more than just an animated film; it serves as an important resource for teenagers and parents alike. It allows viewers to have a nuanced understanding of emotions; stresses on embracing all feelings and assists them in becoming empathetic as well as encourages open communication. Now that Inside Out 2 has been released and is currently running at theaters across the country, this may be a good time to take the kids to watch the film or to revisit the original movie so that our kids and their guardians can watch it.

In the evolving landscape of education, the role of career counsellors in schools has become increasingly indispensable. Today, as we stand on the cusp of technological advancements and globalization, the need for informed career guidance has never been more critical. This article delves into the necessity of updated career counsellors in Indian schools, shedding light on misconceptions, highlighting new-age career paths, and emphasizing the importance of equipping students with the requisite skills and knowledge for their future endeavors.

Misconceptions and Realities
One prevalent misconception is that career counselling is only necessary for high school students approaching graduation. However, career development is a lifelong process, beginning as early as childhood and continuing throughout one’s professional journey. By integrating career counselling into the curriculum from an early age, students can explore various interests, talents, and aspirations, thus making informed decisions about their academic and career paths. Another misconception revolves around the notion that career counselling is solely for students struggling academically or uncertain about their future. On the contrary, career counselling is beneficial for all students, regardless of their academic prowess. It helps students align their interests, skills, and goals with suitable career pathways, fostering a sense of purpose and direction.

New Age vs. Conventional Careers
The contemporary job market is witnessing a paradigm shift, with emerging sectors such as artificial intelligence, data analytics, and renewable energy gaining prominence. While conventional careers like medicine, engineering, and law continue to hold sway, the landscape is diversifying rapidly, offering a plethora of unconventional yet promising career avenues.

In this era of innovation and disruption, students must be exposed to a spectrum of career options beyond the conventional ones. From digital marketing and sustainability consultancy to content creation and app development, the possibilities are endless. However, navigating these uncharted territories requires expert guidance and up-to-date information, underscoring the need for informed career counsellors in schools.

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The Crucial Role of Career Counsellors
Career counsellors serve as the bridge between students and their future aspirations. They possess the expertise to assess students’ aptitudes, interests, and personality traits, thereby recommending suitable career pathways. Moreover, they stay abreast of industry trends, market demands, and educational policies, equipping them with the knowledge to guide students effectively.

In the Indian context, where the education system is often rigid and rote-learning oriented, career counsellors play a pivotal role in challenging traditional mindsets and fostering a culture of innovation and exploration. By advocating for skill-based learning and experiential education, they empower students to embrace their uniqueness and pursue unconventional career paths with confidence.

The Need for Informed Career Counsellors
India’s demographic dividend, characterized by a burgeoning youth population, presents both opportunities and challenges. While the youth bulge holds the potential to drive economic growth and innovation, it also underscores the urgency of equipping young minds with the requisite skills and knowledge to navigate an increasingly competitive global landscape.

In this regard, informed career counsellors serve as catalysts for change, guiding students through the intricacies of career selection, course planning, and overseas education opportunities. They demystify the application and admission processes for prestigious institutions, provide mentorship for entrance exams, and facilitate internships and industry interactions, thereby nurturing well-rounded individuals poised for success.

As we march towards a future characterized by uncertainty and rapid transformation, the role of career counsellors in schools becomes paramount. By dispelling misconceptions, embracing new-age career pathways, and championing skill-based learning, they pave the way for students to embark on fulfilling and meaningful professional journeys.

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In essence, investing in updated career counsellors isn’t just a necessity; it’s a strategic imperative for shaping the future workforce and fostering socio-economic development. As educational leaders, let us recognize the pivotal role of career counselling in shaping the destinies of our students and strive towards creating a generation of future-ready individuals equipped to thrive in the dynamic world of tomorrow.

Authored By- 
Archana Singh
Principal, Sunbeam Suncity (School & Hostel),
Varanasi

As we mark World Environment Day, the searing heatwaves sweeping across India this year serve as a dire warning. The temperatures, reaching unprecedented highs, underline an urgent message: our current environmental trajectory is unsustainable. If we fail to act now, we won’t have the luxury of choosing to be climate activists or champions in a decade; we’ll be forced to address the catastrophic consequences of our inaction.

This year, India has experienced some of the hottest temperatures on record. From the arid landscapes of Rajasthan to the bustling streets of Delhi, the oppressive heat has not only caused widespread discomfort but has also had severe repercussions on public health, agriculture, and the economy. Heatwaves have become more frequent and intense, a stark indicator of climate change’s accelerating impact.

A Message from the Future

The extreme heat is a glimpse into a future where climate change dictates our way of life. If we continue to prioritize short-term development over long-term sustainability, we are setting the stage for a scenario where environmental degradation becomes irreversible. The deforestation, pollution, and rampant urbanization we often justify in the name of progress are, in reality, regressions. They are actions that are eroding the very foundation of our future.

Ten years from now, the choice to become a climate activist will no longer exist; it will be a necessity. Our children and grandchildren will inherit a world where survival might hinge on how well we manage the environment today. The trees we cut for new infrastructure projects are the same trees that could have mitigated flooding, reduced urban heat, and cleaned the air. True development cannot occur without sustainable practices at its core.

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More Than Just Theory

Environmental studies should transcend the boundaries of theoretical knowledge. To cultivate a generation that values and protects the environment, we must embed practical environmental education into the curriculum. This means moving beyond textbooks and exams, and instead fostering real-world experiences and actions.

Schools should integrate activities like tree planting, waste management projects, and community clean-ups. Such hands-on experiences instill a deeper understanding and respect for the environment. Moreover, incorporating environmental ethics into daily school life can help students see the direct impact of their actions on the planet.

Films and Books for Environmental Curriculum

To enrich the curriculum, here are five films and books that vividly illustrate the importance of environmental conservation:

1. Film: “An Inconvenient Truth” (2006)
   • Al Gore’s documentary highlights the science of climate change and the urgent need for action.
2. Book: “Silent Spring” by Rachel Carson
   • This groundbreaking work raised public awareness about the dangers of pesticides and sparked the modern environmental movement.
3. Film: “Before the Flood” (2016)
   • Leonardo DiCaprio’s documentary showcases the impact of climate change across the globe and explores potential solutions.
4. Book: “The Lorax” by Dr. Seuss
   • A classic children’s book that tells the story of the environment through the character of the Lorax, who speaks for the trees.
5. Film: “Our Planet” (2019)
   • This Netflix series, narrated by David Attenborough, showcases the beauty of our natural world and the urgent need to protect it.

The extreme heatwaves in India are a clear, urgent call to action. We must rethink our approach to development and education, ensuring that environmental conservation becomes a core value. By integrating practical environmental studies into our education system and using powerful films and literature to inspire change, we can hope to create a future where true development is sustainable, and our children can live in harmony with the planet. On this World Environment Day, let’s commit to making these changes, for there’s no time left to lose.

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