1.     What pivotal moments in your own education shaped the educator you are today?

As a student, I experienced Indian education in various ways—from a government school to completing my graduate, post-graduate, and doctoral studies at Delhi University and IIM Ahmedabad. Each institution deepened my understanding of the diverse educational models for an inclusive India. Education also continued at home, with my family’s involvement in the field. A turning point in my doctoral program sparked new determination, helping me complete six months of work in just three weeks. This breakthrough reinforced my belief in every child’s unique potential, reflecting our school motto: “I am a Promise, I am a Possibility.”

2.     How do you translate your learning philosophies into the classroom environment?

KIIT World School is dedicated to unlocking the unique potential of every child. Our school day includes diverse learning experiences, from visiting the Book Fair to exploring Uttarakhand’s biodiversity. These activities help reveal the possibilities within our 2000-student body. Our Centre for Innovation in Teaching & Learning (CITL) empowers teachers to experiment with creative methods, driving curricular and pedagogical change. We aim to help every child overcome barriers and reach their fullest potential, with hundreds of toppers as each child excels.

3.   What are your thoughts on the rise of technology and digital learning platforms in education? How do you think they will shape the future of learning?

The key question is how technology supports people—because without people, technology is meaningless. While fostering 21st-century skills, educators must instill values like empathy, kindness, and ethical boundaries in technology use. At KIIT World School, we focus on competencies driving scientific progress, from AI to genetic research. Our sections are named after values like ‘Curiosity,’ representing the inquiry vital to STEM, and ‘Connect’ and ‘Care,’ emphasizing community and societal contribution. In education, science and values must go hand in hand for holistic growth.

4.     What values or skills do you hope every student carries forward after their time in KIIT World School?

Reflection, self-awareness, and meta-cognitive practices are central to our pedagogy. I was honored with the National Award for Teachers in 2008 for my work on reflection. Students practice reflective journaling daily, fostering self-engagement that we aim for them to carry into the future. They are encouraged to give back to the community and contribute to building a better world.

5.     What is your perspective on the current education policies in India?

The National Education Policy 2020 offers a transformative agenda for India’s education system, and we’re ready to embrace it. The focus on age-appropriate milestones and an integrated approach is a positive shift. We’ve already aligned our curriculum across all primary to higher secondary levels. To implement this effectively, we prioritize enhancing understanding, equipping teachers, and fostering collaboration among educators, parents, and other stakeholders. At KIIT World School, initiatives like Art Integration and interdisciplinary learning are already in place, and we continue engaging with stakeholders to align with the NEP vision.

6.     In your view, what qualities make an educator truly exceptional, and how do you nurture those qualities within your school staff?

KIIT World School stands for education ahead of time, with the I and T in KIIT symbolizing ‘Innovation’ in ‘Teaching.’ We presented Action Research on Teacher Competencies for NEP 2020 at the North Educators Summit 2023. This research reflects the Darwinian idea that teachers must go beyond subject expertise, valuing agility and adaptability. As Megginson said, "The species that survives is the one best able to adapt." My role is to keep teachers updated on educational advancements. They undergo extensive training through CBSE workshops and online platforms like Diksha and Swayam and share their knowledge within the school.

7. What changes do you envision in the education system over the next 5 to 10 years?

Education is a moving target that reflects the complex realities of society and the environment. I see a need for education today driven by larger goals like the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). These set a powerful agenda for the world, and education must build on them. We must build a better world for our children and teach them how to take this charter further.

8.     How would you like your students to remember you as an educator and person?

As one who taught them valuable life-lessons and endeavored to contribute to each one uniquely.

9.     What is missing in the current education system that could better prepare students for the future?

Execution is key to change. We have a great vision, and many educators have powerful ideas that are truly transformative. I admire visionaries such as J. Krishnamurti and Rabindranath Tagore, who exemplified ideation and action. I would like to see a culture of institution-building take root – a world where ideas are transformed to on-ground reality. In the words of Rabindranath Tagore, “You can't cross the sea merely by standing and staring at the water.”

10.  If you had the power to implement one change in the education system today, what would it be and why?

I would make it accountable for delivering on the promises of education.


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