“Do not dwell in the past, do not dream of the future, concentrate the mind on the present moment.”

This timeless wisdom resonates deeply with the philosophy of sustainable education, which emphasizes addressing the needs of the present without compromising the future. In alignment with this principle, Mr. Sanjeev Kumar—an eminent educationist and visionary from the historic land of Gaya, Bihar—shares his insights on the evolving role of education in the face of global environmental challenges.

Mr. Sanjeev Kumar, Pro-Vice Chairman of Delhi Public School (DPS), Gaya, has long been recognized for his unwavering commitment to quality education and progressive vision. An alumnus of the esteemed Raja Ram Mohan Roy Academy (Cambridge School) in Dehradun and Hindu College, University of Delhi, he also holds an MBA. He nurtures a unique passion for flying planes. Over the years, he has emerged as a leader dedicated to innovative educational practices that empower students and foster a sense of environmental stewardship.

In this context, Mr. Kumar illuminates the concept of Green Schools—an approach to education that is not only about imparting knowledge but also about inculcating values of sustainability and eco-conscious living.

What Are Green Schools?

Green schools, also known as eco-friendly schools or sustainable schools, are institutions that integrate environmental principles into every facet of their operations. From the design and construction of buildings to curriculum planning and daily school routines, green school initiatives place sustainability at their core. These institutions aim to reduce the carbon footprint in schools, utilize renewable energy, minimize waste, and enhance indoor environmental quality—all while improving student learning outcomes.

As Mr. Kumar points out, green schools go beyond infrastructure. “They represent a mindset, a cultural shift in how we view education and its role in shaping the future of our planet,” he says. These schools act as living laboratories, where students learn about environmental science and witness it in action—recycling systems, rainwater harvesting, solar energy installations, organic gardens, and more.

Core Principles of Green Schools

According to Mr. Kumar, the philosophy of green school leadership rests on several foundational principles:

1. Environmental Sustainability

Green schools are designed to minimize environmental impact by efficiently using resources like energy and water. Energy-efficient school buildings, sustainable construction materials, and waste management processes are key components of an eco-friendly school design.

2. Health and Wellness

Indoor air quality, natural lighting, and proper ventilation are prioritized to ensure a healthier learning environment. Research indicates that students in green schools report fewer respiratory issues and higher concentration levels.

3. Curriculum Integration

Sustainability in education is woven into the curriculum. Lessons on climate change, renewable energy in schools, conservation, and biodiversity are theoretical and experienced practically through various school environmental programs.

4. Community Engagement

Green schools actively involve the community—parents, local bodies, and environmental organisations—creating awareness and encouraging collective responsibility for the planet.

5. Financial Prudence

Contrary to the belief that green initiatives are expensive, Mr. Kumar emphasizes the long-term cost savings associated with eco-friendly infrastructure. “Reduced energy bills, lower water consumption, and minimal maintenance costs ultimately lead to significant financial benefits,” he explains.

Benefits Beyond the Environment

The advantages of green schools extend far beyond environmental conservation. They significantly enhance academic performance, student behavior, and teacher satisfaction.

Research supports Mr. Kumar’s viewpoint that students in eco-conscious classrooms demonstrate better cognitive performance. Natural lighting, reduced noise levels, and toxin-free materials create a conducive environment for learning. Teachers report increased job satisfaction, and absenteeism—among staff and students tends to be lower.

Moreover, green schools cultivate environmental awareness in students from a young age. “When students learn in an environment that practices what it preaches, they internalize these values effortlessly,” Mr. Kumar observes. These students are more likely to adopt sustainable habits and become advocates for environmental causes in their communities.

Green Schools as Teaching Tools

One of the most compelling aspects Mr. Kumar highlights is the role of green schools as immersive teaching tools. School gardens, compost pits, solar panels, and water conservation in schools serve as practical examples that reinforce theoretical concepts.

Students learn science and geography, and values like empathy, responsibility, and community service. Such education goes a long way in nurturing environmentally responsible citizens who understand the interconnectedness of ecosystems and human activity.

Challenges on the Path Ahead

While the vision is compelling, the journey toward building green schools has challenges. Mr. Kumar acknowledges the financial and logistical hurdles in retrofitting existing buildings or constructing new sustainable facilities. Additionally, there is a need for greater awareness and training among educators, administrators, and policy-makers.

However, he remains optimistic. “Change begins with awareness, and the growing global dialogue on climate change is pushing educational institutions to rethink their practices,” he notes. Government incentives, public-private partnerships, and innovative financing models are slowly helping bridge the resource gap.

Opportunities for a Better Tomorrow

Mr. Kumar believes that the movement toward green schooling is not just an environmental necessity but also a moral imperative. Education plays a vital role in a world facing climate crises, biodiversity loss, and unsustainable urban development.

He envisions green schools as catalysts for a larger transformation—communities that are cleaner, healthier, and have children who are more conscious of their ecological footprint.

“Green schools offer us a blueprint for the future,” he asserts. “They exemplify how institutions can be places of learning, healing, and transformation—not only for individuals but for the planet.”

Conclusion

In Mr. Sanjeev Kumar’s vision, the future of education lies in harmonizing academic excellence with environmental consciousness. Green schools are not merely ideal but necessary to ensure a sustainable, equitable, and thriving world.

He eloquently says, “Let schools be more than brick and mortar. Let them be living, breathing ecosystems that nurture both minds and the Earth.”

Through his leadership at Delhi Public School, Gaya, Mr. Sanjeev Kumar, DPS continues to inspire a generation of learners and educators to embrace sustainability, not just as a subject, but as a way of life.