Prof. Swatee Karad Chate
Execu ve President, MIT Vishwaprayag University, Solapur
Women's Commending Contributions in Inspiring India's Progress
Throughouthistory,Indianwomenhave
defiedsocietalnormsandemergedas changemakersdrivinginnovation,social reform,andeconomicgrowth.Invarioussectors, fromscienceandtechnologytopoliticsand entrepreneurship,womenhavedemonstrated remarkableresilience,determinationand leadership.Theircontributionshaveenriched India'scultureandpropelledthecountryontothe globalstage.
Infieldstraditionallydominatedbymen,women havedefiedlimitationscreatingpositivechange. Theirachievementsserveasinspiration encouragingfuturegenerationstopursuetheir aspirationswithoutconstraintorprejudice. Womenhavebeeninstrumentalinadvocatingfor genderequalityandsocialjustice,challenging ingrainedbiasesandstereotypes.
Throughtheiractivismandadvocacy,theyhavehelped fosteramoreinclusiveandequitablesociety,whereevery individualhastheopportunitytothriveregardlessof gender
Beingthekeydriversofeconomicgrowth,womenare playingpivotalrolesasentrepreneurs,innovators,and leadersinbusinessandindustry.Theirentrepreneurial spiritandingenuityhavesupportedjobcreationand economicempowermentcontributingsignificantlyto India'sprosperity.Inadditiontotheirprofessional endeavors,womenhavealsobeenattheforefrontofsocial andcommunitydevelopmentinitiatives.Through grassrootsmovementsandnon-profitorganizations,they haveworkedtirelesslytoaddresspressingissuessuchas education,healthcare,andpovertyalleviation,makinga tangibledifferenceinthelivesofmillions.
AsIndiacontinuesitsjourneytowardsprogressand development,itisessentialtorecognizeandcelebratethe contributionsofwomenateverylevelofsociety Todelve deeperintotheremarkablestoriesofwomendriving India'sprogress,explorethelatesteditionof The Knowledge Review,MostInfluentialWomenShaping India'sFuture,2024nowanddiscoverthetransformative impactoftheircontributions.
Have an inspirational read!
-MuskanKapoor
Prof. Swatee
KaradChate
Pioneering Technology-driven, Interdisciplinary Educa onal Ecosystem
08 Cover Story
Creators
of this Publication
Editor-in-Chief
Pooja Bansal
Managing Editor
Muskan Kapoor
Assisting Editors
Art & Design Head and Visualiser
Rahul Shinde
Co-designer
Saurabh Gole
Vice President
Swapnali Vasaikar
BDM
Naitiki Ambekar
Swati More
Technical Specialist
Rajeshwari Avhad
SME-SMO Executive
Sagar Lahigade
sales@theknowledgereview.in
Follow us on
theknowledgereview theknowledgerv
We are also Available on
Asst. Vice President
Ashwini Pahurkar
Shaikh
Digital Marketing Manager
Renuka Kulkarni
Circulation Manager
Tanaji Fartade
Survey No.133/134, Brand Square, Office No. 512,Kunjir Chowk, Pimple Saudagar, Pune, Maharashtra 411027. Phone - India: +91 7410079881/ 82/83/ 84/ 85
Email: info@theknowledgereview.in For Subscription: theknowledgereview.in
Brief Name of the Person
Amala Akkineni
Dr Ruby Bakshi Khurdi
Designation
Governing Board Member and Director, Annapurna College of Film and Media
Professor of Human Resource Management & Luxury Organizational Behavior, Hotel Institute Montreux
Harsimar D
Mrs. Saroj Khosla
Ms. Aditi Goradia
Prof. Sunaina Singh
Prof. Swatee Karad Chate
COO, Little India Foundation
President, Foundation for Life Sciences and Business Management (FLSBM), Shoolini University, Shimla
Managing Director, Billimoria High School
Vice Chancellor, Nalanda University
Executive President, MIT Vishwaprayag University, Solapur
Amala's vision is to inspire a new generation of filmmakers. There has been a continuous revision and update in the college curriculum that matches the current trends in the industry.
Dr Ruby is a firm believer in the principle that learning should be both enjoyable and memorable for both students and educators alike.
Harsimar emphasizes a leadership style rooted in the organization’s mission and guided by faith. This approach fosters a democratic environment where everyone’s perspectives are considered valuable.
Mrs. Saroj has been shaping young minds for her entire life, and through her dream project FLSBM, she caters to hope students' talent and skills for the global world.
Ms. Aditi believes that learning is constant and universal, and it must always be a joyful process. She encourages collaboration, respect, and openness among the team and students at Billimoria High School.
As an educationist, Prof. Sunaina believes that a university is where wise and knowledgeable people offer their intellectual hospitality.
Prof. Swatee strongly believes that a student’s strength of character is something they can carry with them throughout their lives.
Pioneering Technology-driven, Interdisciplinary Educa onal Ecosystem
I believe that the purpose of educa onal ins tutes is to nurture the minds of students, make them more sensi ve, and help them understand how to tackle the challenges faced by the world.
Prof. Swa Karad Chate Execu ve President, MIT Vishwaprayag University, Solapur
Most Influential Women Shaping India’s Future, 2024
Arobusteducationsystem empowersindividuals, strengthenscommunities,and propelsnationstowardsustainable development.Itpromotesequalityby offeringqualityeducationtoall, regardlessofsocio-economicstatus, fosteringasocietywheremerit,rather thanprivilege,determinessuccess.
Withhernoblepursuitofenhancing theeducationalecosystem,Prof. SwateeKaradChatehasbeen instrumentalinintroducinginnovative learningmethodologies.Sheisa determinedindividualwhosedeeds speaklouderthanwords.Throughher diverserolesasthe Trustee, Secretary General, MAEER’s MIT Group of Institutions, Pune, andExecutive PresidentofMITVishwaprayag University,Solapur,sheaimsto promoteresearch-basedlearning.
ThebeginningofProf.Swatee's journeywasexperiencedinafamily deeplyrootedinIndianspirituality, culture,andsociety.Borntoafamily ofvisionaryeducators,Prof.Dr VishwanathD.Karadand
Mrs.UshaKarad,shegrewupwitha strongsenseofpassion,conviction, anddedicationtothebettermentof society.Shegrewupintheprotective embraceofajointfamilystructure, whichhelpedheracquireempathyand awideoutlookonlife.
PursuitforNation-building
ThemodestbackgroundofProf. Swatee,whowasbornintheLatur regionofMaharashtra,servedasan inspiration.Herfather'sincredible journey,characterizedbytenacityand resolve,pavedthewayforhertomeet obstacleshead-onwithunyielding bravery.
Prof.Swateehasalwaysbeen motivatedtocontributepositivelyto theeducationsectorbyherstrong beliefthateducationisessentialtothe developmentofanation.Accordingto her,educationisthecornerstoneof commonlivesand,byextension,the cornerstoneofarobustcommunityand countryasawhole.
Prof.Swateereminiscencesonhow fromthebeginning,materialistic
We intend to for fy students to be physically strong, mentally alert, intellectually sharp and spiritually elevated from a tender age.
advancementwasnecessaryfora decentlifeforallhumanbeings.She states, “The 21st century is much better in terms of human development across the globe. Most of the countries are in a developing or developed stage compared to earlier centuries. The fundamental necessities like food and shelter are being addressed, and basic education has also expanded its reach, although it still has a long way to go.
However, during the process of development in the decades gone by, the importance of human values such as ethics and empathy was lost. This has resulted in environmental damage, unrest, and mental health issues. Therefore, education needs to evolve to address these concerns.”
TacklingAdversitieswithSensitivity
Prof.Swateestronglybelievesthata
student'sstrengthofcharacteris somethingtheycancarrywiththem throughouttheirlives.Thegoalof educationalinstitutionsistoenhance theirsensitivityandprovidethemwith thetoolstheyneedtohandlethe problemstheworldfaces.
MITaimstoprovideavalue-centered, all-encompassingeducationthat developsself-awareness,empathy,
andsensitivity.Studentswill eventuallybenefitfromthisasthey growpsychologically,physically, spiritually,andacademically
TheMITGroupofInstitutesis prioritizingtherevivalofthe traditionalIndianKnowledgeSystem andincorporatingitintoalloftheir extracurricularandacademic endeavoursinordertorealizethis objective.
KeepingtheIndianCultureIntact
Since2017,theMITGroupof Institutions,Pune,throughMAEER's InstituteforIndicKnowledgeStudies (IIKS),hasledthewayinApplied IndicKnowledgeStudies.
ThecurriculumandprogramsofMIT IIKSaremeanttoprovidemodern studentswithsufficientfundamental knowledgeandtoacquaintthemwith themethodologyandapplicationsof Vedicsciences.Theirplanistoprovide coursesaccordingtotheVedicstream categorizationandprovidealternative waystocombinetheminorderto accommodatediversemodern educationalstreams.
ThecurriculumatMITIIKSplacesa strongemphasisontheessential knowledgeandabilitiesfoundinthe modern,mainstreamuniversity educationsystem,whichincorporates well-knownidealsenhancedbyan Indianviewpoint.
Prof.Swateefindsastrongresonance intheteachingsofSwami Vivekananda.
Hiswords, "Take up one idea. Make that one idea your life; dream of it; think of it; live on that idea. Let the brain, the body, muscles, nerves, and every part of your body be full of that idea, and just leave every other idea alone. This is the way to success," whichexhortspeopletodevotetheir
entirebeingtoasingleconceptand actsasacompassforhercareer
FosteringHolisticDevelopmentof YoungMinds
Prof.Swateebecameincreasingly convincedasaresultthatobstaclesare opportunitiesratherthanroadblocksin anylineofemployment.Thismethod, whichshealsosawinherfather, enabledhertoadvanceinhercareer despitealloftheobstaclesshefaced.
TheMITcommunityisinspiredfrom SwamiVivekananda'steachingsand throughhislifestory,whichspeaksto theuniversalyoung. MITVGS,or VishwashantiGurukulSchool,isa networkofjuniorcollegesandschools thatfosterstheholisticdevelopmentof youngminds.
SwamiVivekanandaoncesaid, "The union of science and spirituality alone will bring harmony and peace to mankind." Thisstatementinspiredthe name"VishwashantiGurukul."
PrioritizingValue-basedEducation
Withthenoblegoalofofferingvaluebasededucationwithglobal opportunitiesforacademicgrowthand development,aswellasensuringthat allstudentshavethelifeskillsand competenciesneededtocontributetoa dynamicsocietywhileupholding Indianculture,VishwashantiGurukul Schoolswerefounded.
VGSaimstostrengthenitspupilsfrom anearlyagesotheyarephysicallyfit, cognitivelysharp,andspiritually exalted.Theseeducationalinstitutions offerafirst-rateatmosphereforboth characterdevelopmentandinstruction, assistingstudentsinacquiringvalues suchasself-control,tolerancefor differentcultures,collaboration,and harmonythatwillenablethemtoforge closertieswiththeircommunityand country
Prof.Swateeemphasizesthatwhile technologyempowerstoday'syouth,it iseducator'sdutytoinstillpatienceand endurance.Shebelievesitisherduty toprovidepositiverolemodelsfor today'svibrantyouth.
Underherdirection,MITVPUis dedicatedtothiscauseandseesatime whenIndia’syouthwillleadtheglobe inthedirectionofharmonyandpeace.
AdaptingtotheChangingDemands
MITVishwaprayagUniversityin Solapurisashiningexampleofa technology-driven,interdisciplinary schoolthatadaptstothechanging demandsofthefuture.MITVPU's sloganistoeffortlesslypreparethe futuregenerationforsustainableliving bytheintegrationofscientific,artistic, andethicalcomponentsintoeducation acrossdisciplines,usingaholistic approach.
CoveringDiverseArraysof Education
Awidevarietyofcoursesareavailable atMITVPU,suchasB.Des,B.Tech CSE,BBA,MBA,BCA,andMCA. Thecurriculumofthesecoursesis intendedtoconveyscientific understanding,aestheticsensitivities, andethicalviewpoints.
Itenteredtheuniquesectorofrailand transportationbecauseoftheMIT GroupofInstitutes'historyinthefield ofrevolutionaryeducation.The Maharashtragovernment'sDTEhas authorizedMITCollegeofRailway Engineering&Research (MITCORER),whichisconnectedto SolapurUniversity.
Theneedforspecializedrailway engineershasgrownastherailway sectorexperiencesatechnological rebirth.Acontemporary,effective,and future-readyrailwaynetworkdepends onthesmoothintegrationofthis cutting-edgetechnologyintothe currentinfrastructure,whichcanonly beachievedbyspecializedexperts. ThegoalofMITCORERistodevelop andpreparethenextgenerationof studentswhowillbeabletotacklethe biggesttechnicalandsocietalproblems ofthetwenty-firstcentury.
I believe that educa on plays a major role in na on-building, and this has always inspired me to play a construc ve role in the educa on field.
ThegoalofMITCORERistodevelop futureleaderscapableofoverseeing andsteeringsignificantenterprisesin therapidlychangingbusiness environment.
BuildingaSustainableFuturefor theSociety
AccordingtoProf.Swatee,education shouldaddresstheneedsofthe communityinadditiontolearning historicaleventsandtextbookmaterial.
Tofurtherthecauseofsustainable living,sheintendstodrawthegreatest talentavailablefromacrosstheworld. Todothis,theMITnetworkof institutesisformingallianceswith nationalandinternationalacademic
I consider educa on to be the founda on of our lives and, in turn, the founda on for a strong society and na on at large.
institutions,businesses,people,and governmentalandsocialgroups.
Prof.Swateewantshergraduatestobe abletoimproveandsustainsocietyin someway TheMITnetworkof Institutesencouragesitsstudentsto exploretheirinnategiftsandforge theirownpathways,allthewhile developingtheirintellectual,artistic, moral,andspiritualcapacities.
Prof.SwateeKaradChate'swork consistentlydemonstratesher dedicationtobuildingasustainable futureforsociety.Shefeelsthat studentshaveanobligationtoprotect theenvironmentasfuturegenerations. Consequently,itiscrucialtohavea progressiveattitudethatencourages cooperationandthinksgloballywhile actinglocally.
Check should be drawn in favor of
Survey No.133/134, Brand Square, Office No. 512, Kunjir Chowk, Pimple Saudagar, Pune, Maharashtra 411027
Phone - India: +91 7410079881/ 82/ 83/ 84/ 85
Email: info@theknowledgereview.in For Subscription: theknowledgereview.in
Managing Director, Billimoria High School, Panchgani
Most Influential Women Shaping India’s Future, 2024
AAprominentSpanishcellist, PabloCasals,hadoncesaid, "A child must know that he/she is a miracle, that since the beginning of the world there hasn't been, and until the end of the world there will not be, another child like him/her."
Childrentrulyareunmarked reservoirsofpotential.Whenit comestoharnessingthispotential, onehastotreadwithcare, understanding,andextensive expertise.TheesteemedBillimoria HighSchool,Panchgani,hasbeen successfullyharnessingthispotential ofitsstudentsformorethana century.
The Knowledge Review takesimmense pridetoshareexcerptsfromour conversationwithMs.AditiGoradia, ManagingDirectoroftheschool.
LegacyofaDynamicInstitution
AditiEducationSociety's-Billimoria HighSchoolwasfoundedin1908and isownedandmanagedbytheGoradia Family Theschoolislocatedonthe serenehillsoftheSahyadrisinthe historictownofPanchgani.A113year-oldlegacyinstituteBillimoria HighSchoolisthealmamaterto numeroussuccessfulalumni,from GovernorstoWriters,CorporateCEOs toDJs,andfromactorstoarmy personnel.Theschoolhasraised leadersinvariousfieldsforovera century,andthejourneycontinues!
TheSolidValueConstruct
Schools across the globe must center themselves around the needs of the children, share ideas, and grow collectively.
Whilespeakingabouttheschool's perseveranceinensuringquality educationthroughtheyears,Ms.Aditi asserts, "Every child is different. Every child is unique. Our pedagogy is simple: keep things child-centric. For us, it is essential to value every individual who learns with us." The schoolencouragesindividualityand independentthinkingtoraisehealthy, confidentglobalcitizens.
Ms.Aditibelievesthattoday'syouth canmakeasuccessfulcareerinany field.Theycancarveanichefor themselvesbydoingwhattheylove. BHShelpseverychildrealisetheir potentialbyprovidingawholesome environmentthatfacilitatesall-around growth.Thecarefullycurated curriculumhoneslearningina progressivecurriculum,whichgives childrenachancetoexploreconcepts
withthehelpofvariousactivitiessuch ascreativearts,specialisedsports, informationtechnology,andotherlife skills.Theschoolprovidesanurturing spacetoencourageself-expression supportedbyapassionateand proficientstudent-centricteam.
AResoluteLeader
Intendingtooverhaulthemonotonyin theeducationsystem,Ms.Aditi graduatedfromtheUniversityofTexas atAustinwithadegreein AnthropologyandAsianStudiesalong withacertificationfromtheUTeach programattheCollegeofEducation (UTAustin).AnAlumnaofBillimoria HighSchoolherself,shewasayouth athletespecialisingintrack&fieldand basketball.
Ms.Aditiasserts, "Schools across the globe must center themselves around the needs of the children, share ideas, and grow collectively." Underherable leadership,Billimoriahassteppedinto thenew,progressiveageof experientiallearning.Shebelievesthat learningisconstantanduniversal,and itmustalwaysbeajoyfulprocess.She encouragescollaboration,respect,and opennessamongtheteamandstudents atBillimoriaHighSchool.
Forherceaselesseffortsand contributiontotheeducationspace, Ms.AditiGoradiahasreceived numerousawardsandaccolades.Some ofthemarelistedbelow:
Ÿ MostPromisingInfluentialLeader of2019-SiliconIndiaMagazine
Ÿ TopWomenEntrepreneurship AwardinEducation-World EducationSummit2019
Ÿ EducationEvangelistofIndiaGreatPlacetoStudy(ForbesIndia)
Ÿ OutstandingSchoolEducation Leader(Top20WomenEducators Award)-ASMAAcademia
ShehasalsobeenaPanelSpeakerat variousEducationalConferences, includingIndiaDidac,World EducationSummit,SchoolLeadership Summit,APAC,andtheBrainfeed EducationSummit.
InnovativeProgrammeOfferings
BHShasrecognisedthesignificanceof 21stCenturyskillssuchas independence,self-confidence, compassion,andempathy.Beinga residentialschool,BillimoriaHigh Schooloffersexperiencesoflifethat arebeyondacademicslessons.The schoolprioritisespreparingstudents fortheworldwhilesimultaneously discoveringtheirindividualstrengths andabilities.Theschool'sLife EnrichmentProgramisonesuch initiativethatplaysacrucialrolein helpingstudentstapintotheirspecial interestsanduniqueskillsets.
Theschoolstrivestocreatehealthy futureleadersbyimpartingstrong valuesofethics,courage,compassion andproactivity Whilespeakingabout leadership,Ms.Aditisays, "Successful leadership is the result of positive intent combined with hard work, openness and collaboration. A position of leadership provides authority. A good leader will ensure that the responsibility and liability of the position are prioritised above recognition and power."
TheSchools'Leadershipprogram includes:
Ÿ TheSchoolLeadershipForumof Captains&Prefects
Ÿ TheDebatingSociety
Ÿ TheSchoolMagazineand JournalismClub
Ÿ TheInteractSociety(AStudent PanelofRotaryInternational)
Ÿ TheCulture&Communications Team
Theschoolhasbeenaffiliatedwiththe CentralBoardofSecondaryEducation (CBSE),Delhi,forthelastthree decades,andtheteamfirmlybelieves intheIntegratedLearningOutcome BasedCurriculum,whichis encouragedbytheBoardandNEP 2020.
Infrastructure
Witha17-acreheritagecampus, BillimoriaHighSchoolsetsa benchmarkforresidentialschoolsin thecountry.ApartfromtheBritishEra blackstoneAcademicBuildings,the campusboastssportsfieldsandcocurricularfacilities.
Living Spaces:Theairydormitories providethestudentswithasacred spacewheredormmatesbecome siblings.Together,triumphsare celebrated,andjokesareshared.Under thesupervisionoflovingdormparents, itisahomeawayfromhome.Here,the childrengainthelifeskillstobecome responsible,caringyoungmenand women.Anditisherethattheymake friendsforlife.
Audio-Visual Labs-Theschoolsupports alternativelearningresourcesand believesinimpartingholisticlearning. Teacherspersonallycreate/curatedigital lessonstoenhancethelearning experienceofthechildren.
Laboratories-Apartfromadvanced Biology,Chemistry,Physics,orMath labs,theschool'scomputerlabis equippedwiththelatestsystems, uninterruptedwi-ficonnectivity,and powerfulmultimediadevices.
Library-Oneofthemostexpansiveinthe region,theschoolLibraryisasanctuary ofwisdom.Itisspaciousandairy-a placewherechildrenlearntoloveand respectthesignificanceofwordson paper
Sports and Fitness-AtBHS,sportisan integralpartofthecurriculum.The schoolhasamplespace,multiplegrounds, andexcellentsportsinfrastructure. Studentsaregivenexposuretoavariety ofsportsbeforebeingencouragedto pursuethespecificsportsoftheirchoice.
Performing and Creative Arts-Theschool believesthatartprovidestheperfect avenueforself-expression.Artinculcates
confidenceandself-love.Withthisin mind,theschoolhasincorporatedan extensivePerformingandCreativeArts programthatstaysineffectthroughout theyear
EquippedtoCare
Ms.Aditibelievesthatfoodexperience directlycorrelatestolearning,forthe brainandthebodyneedspositive sustenancetofunctionwell.Shesays, "Let mealtimes be positive experiences because food tastes better when it is shared with family. Our children experience family as they share the table with their teachers."
Theschoolprovidesawell-developed nutritionplanthatensuresoptimum physicalgrowth,withaperfectblendof nutritionandflavour
Furthermore,whenastudentisinjured orfeelsunwell,theInfirmaryiswhere theygoforsomerestandrecuperation. Theschoolhasa24-houron-callDoctor whovisitsdailyandresidentnurseswho careforthelittleonesjustasamother would.Incaseofmajorinjuriesor emergencies,nearbymedicalfacilities andspecialistsareavailablewhenever required.
Successful leadership is the result of positive intent combined with hard work, openness and collaboration. A position of leadership provides authority. A good leader will ensure that the responsibility and liability of the position are prioritised above recognition and power.
Women Leaders and India's Ascendance
Inrecentdecades,Indiahas
experiencedaremarkable transformationontheglobalstage, emergingasaprogressiveandinfluential playerinvariousspheres.Centraltothis ascendancehasbeentheincreasing presenceandimpactofwomenleaders acrosssectors,challengingstereotypesand reshapingnarrativesaboutgenderrolesin Indiansociety.
Join in to understand the role of women leaders in India's ascent, examining how they have surpassed expectations and contributed to the nation's growth and development!
UnderstandingWomenLeadersinIndia
WomenleadersinIndiaencompassa diversearrayofindividualswhohaverisen toprominenceinpolitics,business, academia,activism,andsomuchmore. Thesewomenhavedefiedsocietalnorms andshatteredglassceilingsandcreating oneinamillionstories.
• Political Leadership:Intherealmof politics,womenleadersinIndia haveplayedpivotalrolesatboththe nationalandstatelevels.From IndiraGandhi—FirstfemalePrime MinisterofIndiatocontemporary figureslikeNirmala Sitharaman—Firstfull-timefemale FinanceMinister,womenhave wieldedpowerandinfluencein shapingpoliciesandgovernance.
• Business and Entrepreneurship: India'seconomicrisehasbeen accompaniedbytheemergenceof womenleadersinbusinessand entrepreneurship.FigureslikeKiran Mazumdar-Shaw—Founderof BioconandChanda Kochhar—FormerCEOofICICI Bank,havedemonstratedthe transformativepotentialoffemale leadershipindrivinginnovationand growth.
• Social and Cultural Leadership:Part frompoliticsandbusiness,women leadersinIndiahavemade significantcontributionstosocial andculturalchange.Fromactivists likeArundhatiRoyandMedha Patkar—advocatingforhuman rightsandenvironmentaljusticeto culturaliconslikePriyankaChopra andDeepikaPadukonebreaking barriersintheentertainment industry,womenhavecreated influenceandcatalyzedprogressin diversespheres.
TheImpactofWomenLeaderson India'sAscendance
TheriseofwomenleadersinIndiahas hadfar-reachingimplicationsforthe nation'strajectory,shapingnarratives ofprogress,inclusivity,and empowerment.
• Empowerment and Representation: Thepresenceofwomenleadersin positionsofpowerandinfluence servesasapowerfulsymbolof empowermentandrepresentation,
inspiringfuturegenerationsof womentopursuetheiraspirations andbreakbarriers.Byservingas rolemodelsandadvocatesfor genderequality,womenleaders contributetoamoreinclusiveand equitablesociety
• Innovation and Growth:Women leadersbringuniqueperspectives, skills,andexperiencestothetable, drivinginnovation,creativity,and sustainablegrowthacrosssectors. Studieshaveshownthatcompanies withgreatergenderdiversityin leadershippositionstendto outperformtheirpeers,highlighting theeconomicbenefitsofwomen's leadership.
• Social Progress and Change: WomenleadersinIndiahavebeenat theforefrontofdrivingsocial progressandchange,advocatingfor issuesrangingfromgenderequality andwomen'srightstoenvironmental sustainabilityandsocialjustice. Theiractivismandadvocacyhave helpedelevateimportantissuesonto thenationalagendaandcatalyzed meaningfulreforms.
ChallengesandOpportunities
Despitetheprogressmade,women leadersinIndiacontinuetoface variouschallengesandbarrierstofull participationandleadership.From culturalstereotypesandsocietal expectationstosystemicbarriersand institutionalizeddiscrimination, navigatingthepathtoleadership remainsfraughtwithobstacles. However,amidstthesechallengeslie opportunitiesformeaningfulchange andprogress.
• Breaking Stereotypes and Bias: Stereotypesandbiasesagainst women'sleadershippersistinIndian society,perpetuatinggendernorms andlimitingopportunitiesfor womentofullyrealizetheir potential.Addressingthese
entrenchedattitudesandpromotinga cultureofinclusivityandrespectis essentialforfosteringan environmentwherewomencan thriveasleaders.
• Investing in Education and Skills: Investingineducationandskills developmentforwomeniscrucial forunlockingtheirleadership potentialandfosteringeconomic empowerment.Byprovidingaccess toqualityeducation,vocational training,andleadershipdevelopment programs,Indiacanequipwomen withthetoolsandresourcesthey needtosucceedindiversefields.
• Promoting Diversity and Inclusion: Creatingmoreinclusiveand supportiveenvironmentsthatvalue diversityandpromotewomen's participationandleadershipis essentialforharnessingthefull potentialofIndia'stalentpool.This includesimplementingpoliciesand practicesthataddressgenderbias, supportwork-lifebalance,and ensureequalopportunitiesforall.
Conclusion
WomenleadersinIndiahaveplayeda centralroleinthenation'sascendance, challengingstereotypes,driving innovation,andcatalyzingprogress acrosssectors.AsIndiacontinueson itspathofgrowthanddevelopment, thecontributionsofwomenleaders willbeinstrumentalinshapingamore inclusive,equitable,andprosperous futureforall.
Lookingahead,thefutureofwomen leadersinIndiaholdsimmense promiseforadvancinggenderequality, drivinginnovation,andfostering inclusivegrowth.Bycontinuingto breakbarriers,challengestereotypes, andadvocateforchange,women leaderswillplayapivotalrolein shapingIndia'strajectoryandensuring thatthenation'sascentistruly transformativeandsustainable.
Amala Akkineni
Educating and Organising the Film Education Space in India
Moviesareoftenconsidered asthegatewaytoreality
Thecurrentgeographical, political,cultural,andspiritual landscapesarebeautifullyportrayedin themoviesthroughthedirector's vision.However,makingamovieis nevertooeasy,asitrequiresmorethan justhardworkandperseverance.
Filmshavegiventheyounggeneration aplatformtoexpresstheirartformand telltheirstoriestotheworld.InIndia, despitehavingmorethanacentury-old historyinfilmmaking,therearevery fewinstitutesthatteachfilmmaking. Educationaboutfilmsandtelevisionis lackinginthecountryandisyetto reachtheaspiringfilmmakersof tomorrow.
Identifyingthisneedandbeingan impactingfigureinthefilmindustry, AmalaAkkineni,theGoverning BoardMemberandDirectorat AnnapurnaCollegeofFilmand Media,hastakenuptheresponsibility toeducateandtraintheyoung generationaboutdifferentaspectsof filmmakingandculminatethelongcherisheddreamofthelegendaryfilm actorAkkineniNageshwaraRao
PrioritisingEducationOverCareer asanActor
AmalaAkkinenihashadanimpactful careerasanactressintheIndianfilm
industry.Despiteworkinginsocial welfarefor20yearsandhavinga successfulcareerinthefilmindustry, shetookupthetaskonrequestfrom herfamilytoeducateandtrainthe upcomingfilmmakersatAnnapurna CollegeofFilmandMedia.
Sheisastudentoftheesteemed KalakshetraCollegeofFineArts.She hasingrainedthecultureofdiscipline, artisticpractice,andspiritualvaluesin herteachingsandgoverningatthe AnnapurnaCollegeofFilmandMedia.
IntegratingaClassicalDancer's DisciplinewiththeVisionofa LegendaryActor
AmalaAkkineniisatrained Bharatnatyamdancerandbeingpartof theKalakshetratroupe,shewasdeeply inspiredbySmt.RukminiDevi Arundalewhowasknownfor catalysingtherenaissanceofthe Bharatnatyamdanceform.Despite beingagreatdancer,shewasalsoan educator,aMemberofParliament,and thefounderanddirectorof Kalakshetra.
"She (Rukmini Devi) believed there was no better way to truly learn than through the University of Life. She questioned teaching history without the effort to visit the place where the monuments of the civilisation stand and to experience those civilisations
through their art, poetry, and literature. Hers was a living education, and it was an adventure studying under her leadership. Most of all, she knew how to draw out a student's potential. She never gave up on you," says Amala.
Anotherprominentfigurethatinspired Amalawasherfather-in-law,Shri AkkineniNageshwaraRao,who sharedasimilarbeliefasSmt.Rukmini DeviArundale.Despitehavingno formaleducation,hewasgiftedwith immensewisdomandworkedhardto develophistalentandcareer
"I am so deeply inspired by and grateful to both stalwarts who have contributed immensely to my success at Annapurna College," saysAmalaabout herinspirationtojointheeducation sector
CarryingForwardtheLegacyof AkkineniNageswaraRao
TheAnnapurnaCollegeofFilmand MediaisthebrainchildofMr NageshwaraRaowithavisiontobring professionalismtotheunorganisedfilm industry.Beingavisionaryand successfulactorhimself,hebrought togetherinfrastructure,technology,and educationtostrengthenthefoundation ofthefilmindustryinIndia.His respecttowardstechnicians,artists,and educatorsallowedhimtoshapethe collegeandmakeitwhatitistoday.
MrAkkineniNagarjuna,afilmactor, andproducer,stronglybelievesin educationforbeingthebasisto revolutionisethefilmindustry.
"Learning by doing is the best way, and when empowered by education, the knowledge can be transformative to the individual and the industry," believes thechairmanoftheinstitute
MrAkkineniNagarjuna.
TheAnnapurnacollegeprovides hands-onexperiencetoitsstudents alongwiththetheoreticalknowledge thatenablesthestudentstobeready forindustry
OnaVisionaryMissionto ProfessionalisetheUnorganised FilmIndustry
Sinceitsinception,theAnnapurna CollegeofFilmandMediahas includedvalue-basedlearninginits ecosystem.Undertheguidanceof AmalaAkkineni,thecollegehasnot onlytaughtbutalsopractisedesteemed valueslikeIntegrity,Empathy,Social Responsibility,andAdaptability.This providedflexibilityandcreatedan inclusiveenvironmentatthecampus fortheoveralldevelopmentof students.
Withanextensionofthefounder's vision,thecollegeaimsfor:
Ÿ Providingholisticeducationon campustostimulateinquiry, CriticalThinking,Creativity,and Excellence.
Ÿ Mentoringforaesthetic applicationsofcraft.
Ÿ Exploreandexperimentwith entrepreneurialskillsandbusiness acumen.
Ÿ Nurturingstudentstobeglobal citizenswhoencouragediversityby movingintotheworldtopractice.
Governing Board Member and Director, Annapurna College of Film and Media
We Provide an environment that encourages ,creativity innovation, intellectual rigor and freedom of expression.
Amala Akkineni
CommittedtoEducational Excellence
Amala,followingthefounder's footsteps,hasmadeAnnapurna Collegeahubofeducational excellence.Shehasthevisionto inspireanewgenerationof filmmakers.Therehasbeena continuousrevisionandupdateinthe collegecurriculumthatmatchesthe currenttrendintheindustry.
"Cinema is an interdisciplinary process and learning at the campus begins from day one. The industry's experienced faculty at the campus are instrumental in delivering technical subjects. Every theoretical concept is followed by practice, projects, and creative feedback to map the student's growth and improvement," saysthe director
Thecommonloveforfilmshas broughtstudentsfromdifferent cultures,backgrounds,andlanguages togetherunderoneroofatAnnapurna CollegeofFilmandMedia.The directorofthecollegehasrecognised thatacademicrigourisnotenoughto improvelearningoutcomes.Thisisthe reasonthatconstantcreativefeedback isincludedinthecurriculum.Along withthat,thecourseobjectivealso includesunderstandingconcepts,
developingcreativepractice, experience,exposuretotechnology, etc.
ChangingwiththeChangein ConventionalEducation
AsW.E.B.DuBoisbelieved, ‘Educationmustnotsimplyteach work,itmustteachlife.’Shehas understoodtheimpactofinteractive digitalspaceandhasblendedthe mediumtosupportcreativelearning, innovativeteaching,andfosterthe students'individualpotential.
Duringthelockdown,withtheaidof technologyandtools,collaborative discussions,projects,andassignments wereconductedforthestudents.Along withbeingtheaudienceonthedigital platform,studentsalsogotanin-depth insightintocreatingengagingcontent.
Amalabelievesthat "The real world offers an equally rich dimension to their education. They are encouraged to experience life around them, face and navigate real-life challenges and learn from them. The virtue of being pragmatic, passionate, and constantly evolving is imbibed in them."
OvercomingtheDigitalChallenge
"We have a lost generation before us and misinterpreting them or
alienating them is a danger. Every technological shift has both positive and negative repercussions. While technology has its merits, it also has far-reaching consequences on geopolitics, the state, societies, families, and individuals. Even though the next generation knows the benefits technology has to offer, to teach them to be mindful of it and not be subservient to it is a challenge that we as educators face today," says AmalaAkkineni.
Overcomingthischallenge,the institutedirectorconstantlyconsults withandinspirestheteamtonavigate
andevolve.Withthebackingofan industry-readyteam,thecollegewas onlineduringthepandemicand deliveredaproductiveandvibrant semester.Sixty-eightindustry professionals,includingtopfilmmakers fromIndia,tookmasterclassesand providedproperguidancetofuture filmmakers.
EnlightenmentforFutureFilm Educators
Theconceptofeducationhas undergonemanychangesoverthe years.Ithasconstantlyevolvedwith thedemandsintheindustryand drawingoutaroadmapinthefilm educationspaceisextremely important.Amalaadvisesthe upcomingentrepreneursinthefilm spacetogettherightteamof academicianswhoprioritiselearning. Shealsobelievesthatitisthefirststep intherightdirection.
"Any form of education deals with shaping a generation of individuals who perform their functions within the frame of a society,” saysAmala. “The institution as an entity should foster and enable democratic dialogue, intellectual fervour, and a quest for knowledge. Drawing from our example
Most Influential Women Shaping India’s Future, 2024
at Annapurna, all the practices mentioned above help us produce and encourage cinema in its purest form," sheadded.
RoadmapfortheFuture
Forfilmstudentsandprofessionals, workinginanactualfilmstudiogivesa hands-onexperienceofworkinginthe industry.Thenewstate-of-the-art campuswithproductionfloors, post-productionfacilities,soundand editingstudios,amphitheatre,and screeninghalls,isthenextbigstep forAnnapurnaCollegeofFilmand Media.
"Virtual productions are the next big thing in Film, and our Alumni are already working with India's first Virtual Studio in Hyderabad,"added AmalaAkkineni.
Alongwiththat,thecollegeisplanning toincreasecollaborationthroughthe CILECTnetworktogivethefaculty andstudentsadiverseexposuretoa varietyofeducationalapproachesand films.However,theimmediategoalof thecollegeistospreadthewordabout CreativeEducationandthemuchneededrecognitionandencouragement tocreativecareers.
Cinema is an interdisciplinary and process learning at the begins campus from one. day
Dr Ruby Bakshi Khurdi
Transformative Leadership in Academia and Beyond
Whiletheprimaryfocusof educationisoftenon academicachievementand skilldevelopment;educatorsinthe currenttimeshavearesponsibilityto nurturetheholisticdevelopmentof theirstudents,includingtheirmoral, ethical,andsocialgrowth.DrRuby BakshiKhurdiisamongthose distinguishededucators,acclaimedfor herinnovativeapproachesand expertiseinemotionalintelligence training.Herimpactextendsglobally, earningherrecognitionasa"global changer"andnumerousaccoladesfor hercontributionstoeducationand humanvalues.
AsaProfessorofHumanResource Management&Luxury OrganizationalBehaviorattheHotel InstituteMontreux,DrKhurdi embodiesexcellenceinacademia.Her journeytothisesteemedpositionis markedbysignificantmilestones, includingherappointmentasthe AcademicDeanofaprestigiousallgirlsboardingcollegeinSwitzerland.
Dr Ruby Bakshi Khurdi Professor-Human Resource Management and Luxury Organizational Behavior, Hotel Institute Montreux
BreakingBarriers,Achieving Excellence
DrKhurdi'sdedicationtobreaking barriersandachievingexcellenceasa womaneducatorinhighereducationis reflectedinherambitiousgoalsand ongoingcommitmenttopersonaland professionalgrowth.Despitefacing challenges,sheremainssteadfastinher missiontosurpassexpectationsand makealastingimpact:
• Upholdandexpandthepracticeof emotionalintelligenceboth personallyandprofessionally, fosteringpositiverelationshipsand effectivecommunication.
• Prioritizequalitytimewithfamily, recognizingtheimportanceof balanceandwell-beinginall aspectsoflife.
• Empowerstudentstodevelop criticalthinkingskills,equipping themwiththetoolsneededfor successinanever-changingworld.
• Attendpersonaldevelopment seminarsandworkshopsto continuouslyenhanceskillsand stayabreastofemergingtrends andpractices.
• Delivertailoredtrainingprograms forcorporateentities,higher educationinstitutions,and universities,leveragingher expertisetodrivemeaningful change.
• Shareinsightsandexperiencesby writingabookonemotional intelligence,contributingtothe bodyofknowledgeinthefield.
• Designandimplementhighly engagingteam-buildingactivities forworkshops,fostering collaborationandcohesionamong participants.
• Embraceandpracticeactive listening,recognizingits importanceinbuildingrapport, understandingperspectives,and fosteringmeaningfulconnections.
ResponsetoEducationalChallenges
Inthedynamicsectorofeducation,Dr Khurdifacesamyriadofchallenges, eachdemandinginnovativesolutions toensureeffectiveteachingand meaningfulstudentengagement.One suchchallengeliesintherapid evolutionoftechnology,wherestaying abreastofthelatesttoolsandplatforms isparamount.Toovercomethishurdle, DrKhurdiadoptsaproactivestanceas alifelonglearner,activelyparticipating invarioustrainingsessionsand workshopstoupdatehertechnological skills.Byintegratingthese advancementsintoherteaching methods,sheensuresthatherstudents receiveacontemporaryeducationthat preparesthemforthedigitallandscape ofthefuture.
AnothersignificantchallengeDr Khurdiencountersisthecreationof engagingcontentforherclasses, particularlyinanageofdwindling attentionspans.Recognizingthe importanceofcaptivatingherstudents' interest,sheregularlyrefreshesher teachingmaterials,infusingthemwith multimediaelementsandinteractive components.
DrKhurdinavigatesthecomplextask ofteachingadiversecohortof students,eachrepresenting20-30
My overarching mission is to break the glass ceiling as a woman educator teaching in higher education; go beyond & above.
differentnationalities.Insucha multiculturalenvironment,she endeavorstoensurethateverystudent feelsvaluedandincluded,regardlessof theirbackground.Proactivelyfostering anatmosphereofdiversityand inclusivity,DrKhurdipaysspecial attentiontoaddressinganyculturalor pedagogicalbarriersthatmayimpede students'learningexperiences.
RevolutionizingLearning
Asaprolificauthor,DrKhurdihasleft anindeliblemarkonthefieldof educationwithhergroundbreaking book,"HowtoEngageLearnersina VirtualLearningEnvironment."This publicationstandsasatestamenttoher unwaveringcommitmenttoenhancing thelearningprocess,particularlyinthe digitalage.
Recognizingtheglobaldemandfor accessibleknowledgeandcertification, DrKhurdihasfurtheredherimpactby launchingthegroundbreakingonline learningplatform, www.RubyBakshiKhurdi.com. Throughthisplatform,individuals fromaroundtheworldcanaccessa wealthofknowledgeandearn certificatesfromthecomfortoftheir ownhomes.
FromLondontoDubai,Paristo Prague,DrKhurdi'sworkshopshave inspiredandempowerededucatorsand learnersalike,leavingalastingimpact ontheglobaleducationcommunity.
CompassionateLeadership
Intheeducationsector,DrKhurdi's decision-makingandleadershipstyle areshapedbyasetofkeyprinciples andvaluesthatreflecthercommitment toexcellenceandstudentsuccess:
• PracticingEmpathy:DrKhurdi prioritizesunderstandingand
empathy,recognizingthediverse needsandexperiencesofher studentsandcolleagues.
• BeingAuthentic:DrKhurdi believesinauthenticityand transparencyinherinteractions withstudents,colleagues,and management.
• Clear&ConcreteCommunication: DrKhurdiemphasizesclearand concretecommunicationasa cornerstoneofeffectiveleadership.
• EmpoweringStudents:DrKhurdi iscommittedtoempoweringher studentstoreachtheirfull potential.
• Creativity&Innovation:DrKhurdi embracescreativityandinnovation inherteachingmethodsand curriculumdevelopment.
• BeingAccountable:DrKhurdi holdsherselfaccountableforher actionsanddecisions,taking ownershipofherresponsibilities andcommitments.
Throughtheseguidingprinciplesand values,DrKhurdiexemplifies compassionateleadershipanda commitmenttoexcellenceinthe educationsector.Herauthentic approach,clearcommunication,and dedicationtostudentempowermentand innovationmakeherarespectedand influentialleaderinherfield.
ImpactonToleranceEducation
DrKhurdi'sinvitationtoparticipateasa keynotespeakerattheEshraqatFestival bytheMinistryofTolerance,UAE, undertheslogan"toleranceis knowledge,"wasamomentofgreat prideandsignificanceinhercareer
Sharingthevirtualstagewithesteemed figureslikeH.E.SheikhNahyanBin MubarakAlNahyanandH.E.Hussain IbrahimAl-Hammadiwasahumbling experience,highlightingtheimportance ofhermessageonlearninghuman valuesthroughemotionalintelligence.
As an innovative educator, my teaching methodology is distinguished by emphasis on gamification, making learning not only informative but also engaging and enjoyable. " "
Thespecialinvitationcameasa surprisetoDrKhurdi,asshehadno priorcontactsintheministry. However,uponinquiry,shediscovered thathernamehadsurfacedmultiple timesintheirresearchoneducators practicingtoleranceandempathyin education.
InnovativeApproachtoTeaching
DrKhurdiisafirmbelieverinthe principlethatlearningshouldbeboth enjoyableandmemorableforboth studentsandeducatorsalike. Embracingthisphilosophy,she incorporatesgamificationintoher teachingonadailybasis,making learningafunandengagingexperience forherstudents.Infact,sheis recognizedastheonlyverifiedKahoot educatorinSwitzerland,earningher
theendearingnickname"Kahoot Professor"amongherstudents.
Lookingahead,DrKhurdiplansto furtherleveragetechnology-based learningmethodstoenhancethe learningexperienceofherstudents. Thisincludesintegratingartificial intelligenceasatooltopersonalizeand optimizethelearningprocess.By focusingonproblem-basedlearning, occupationaldiversity,and encouragingcriticalthinking,Dr Khurdiaimstocreateanenvironment thatfostersinnovationandcreativityin herstudents.Additionally,she recognizestheimportanceof kinestheticlearningandwillcontinue toexplorewaystoincorporatehandson,experientiallearningactivitiesinto herteachingapproach.Throughthese efforts,DrKhurdiremainsdedicatedto makinglearningnotonlyeffectivebut alsoenjoyableandenrichingforher students.
GlobalImpactinEducation
DrKhurditakesgreatprideinthe
significantawardsreceivedthroughout heracademicjourney,each representingamilestoneinher dedicationtoeducationandinnovation:
• ShardaShatabdiSammanbyMr ManojSinha,LieutenantGovernor ofJammu&Kashmir,recognizes DrKhurdi'sexemplary contributionstoeducation.
• SheInspiresAward-Outstanding EducationalRolebyHonourable MPPadamshriBobBlackmanat theHouseofCommons,UK, celebratesherimpactfulworkin inspiringfuturegenerations.
• BharatGauravSammanbySmt. MeenakshiLekhiji,Ministerof StateforExternalAffairs& CultureofIndia,HouseofLords, London,UK,honorsher outstandingachievementsand contributionstoIndiancultureand education.
• 50under50LeadersbyHR AssociationofIndiaacknowledges DrKhurdi'sleadershipand
influenceinshapingthefutureof humanresources.
• AcademicExcellenceAwardby JaipuriaInstituteofManagement Lucknow,India,reflectsher dedicationtoacademicexcellence andinnovationinteaching.
AdviceforWomenMakinga Difference
DrKhurdioffersheartfeltadviceto womenwhoaspiretomakea differenceintheirfields:Beauthentic andtruetoyourself.Recognizeyour uniquenessandembraceit;there'sno needtoemulateothers.Instead, cultivateyourownteachingstylethat reflectsyourpersonalityandvalues. Remembertoremainalifelonglearner, continuouslyseekingoutnew knowledgeandinnovativeteaching methodstoinspireyourstudentsand keepyourpassionalive.Consistently putinthehardwork,stayingdedicated andpersistentinyourpursuitof success.Andremember,whenyou succeed,yourachievementswillspeak volumes.
Women Shaping Leaders India's Educational Renaissance
Champions of Learning
India'seducationalsectorpulsates
withinnovation,equity,and progress,fueledbythevisionary leadershipofwomen.Asthenation undergoesaneducationalawakening, thesechampionsoflearningstandtall, shapingpolicies,drivingreforms,and inspiringgenerations.They'renot bystanders—they'rearchitects, engineers,androlemodels.
Withsteadfastdetermination,theycraft inclusivepolicies,engineersystemic changes,andigniteinspirationacross generations.Theyarethebedrockof India'seducationalrenaissance,
forgingpathwaystoward aluminousfutureoflearning.
Join in to examine the transformative role of women leaders in India's educational realm, celebrating their contributions as champions of learning!
Pioneers,Policymakersand Innovators
WomenleadersinIndianeducation hailfromdiversebackgroundsand fields,eachmakinginvaluable contributionstothesector'sevolution.
Frompioneeringeducatorsand visionarypolicymakerstograssroots activistsandinnovativeentrepreneurs, theseleadersembodyresilience, compassion,anddedicationto improvinglearningoutcomesforall.
• Trailblazing Educators:Attheheart ofIndia'seducationalrenaissance aretrailblazingeducatorswhohave revolutionizedteachingandlearning paradigms.FigureslikeDr AnandibaiJoshi—India'sfirst femaledoctorandSavitribai Phule—thepioneerofwomen's th educationinthe19 century,laidthe foundationforequitableaccessto educationandchampionedsocial reform.
• Policy Architects:Womenleaders areinstrumentalinshaping educationalpoliciesthatfoster inclusivity,quality,andrelevance. Womenleadersareinstrumentalin shapingeducationalpoliciesthat fosterinclusivity,quality,and relevance.FigureslikeDr.Rajani Gupte—ViceChancellorof SymbiosisInternationalUniversity, advocateforeducationalreforms thatemphasizeholisticdevelopment andculturalenrichment.
• Social Entrepreneurs:Intheeraof digitaltransformation,women entrepreneursareleveraging technologytodemocratizeaccessto educationandpromotelifelong learning.LeaderssuchasShradha Sharma—FounderofYourStoryand DivyaGokulnath—Co-founderof BYJU'Shaverevolutionizedthe educationallandscape,making learningaccessible,engaging,and personalized.
VisiontoAction
Womenleadersarecatalystsforchange inIndia'seducationalecosystemby drivinginitiativesthatpromoteequity, excellence,andinnovation.
• Empowering Marginalized Communities:Womenleadersare championsofinclusiveeducation, advocatingfortherightsof marginalizedcommunities, includinggirls,ruralpopulations, andchildrenwithdisabilities.By promotingaccesstoquality educationandaddressingsystemic barriers,theyempowerindividuals torealizetheirfullpotentialand contributemeaningfullytosociety
• Promoting Innovation and Entrepreneurship:Womenleaders arefosteringacultureofinnovation andentrepreneurshipineducation, harnessingtechnologyandcreative pedagogiestoenhancelearning outcomes.Throughplatformslike EducompSolutionsandTeachFor India,theyarerevolutionizing teachingmethodologiesand equippinglearnerswith21st-century skills.
• Advancing Policy Reforms:Women leadersplayapivotalroleinshaping educationalpoliciesthatreflectthe evolvingneedsoflearnersand society.Byadvocatingforevidencebasedreformsandparticipatory decision-makingprocesses,they ensurethateducationalsystemsare responsive,inclusive,andfutureready.
IncentivizingtheDeterrents
Despitetheirsignificantcontributions, womenleadersinIndianeducation facepersistentchallenges,including genderbias,limitedrepresentationin leadershiproles,andunequalaccessto resources.However,thesechallenges arealsoopportunitiesforcollective actionandtransformativechange.
• Addressing Gender Bias:Gender biasandstereotypescontinueto impedewomen'sleadershipin education,perpetuatinginequalities andlimitingopportunitiesfor
advancement.Addressingimplicit biases,promotingmentorshipand sponsorshipprograms,andcreating inclusiveworkenvironmentsare criticalstepstowardsgenderparity inleadership.
• Empowering Women Leaders: Investinginwomen'sleadership developmentprograms,providing mentorshipandnetworking opportunities,andpromotingworklifebalancepoliciesareessentialfor empoweringwomenleadersto thriveineducationalleadership roles.
• Promoting Diversity and Inclusion: Promotingdiversityandinclusionin educationalleadershipisessential forfosteringinnovation,creativity, andequitableoutcomes.By embracingdiverseperspectives, experiences,andvoices,educational institutionscanbetteraddressthe needsandaspirationsofalllearners.
Conclusion
WomenleadersaredrivingIndia's educationalrenaissance,shaping policies,fosteringinnovation,and empoweringcommunities.Asthe nationstrivestowardseducational excellenceandequity,theirleadership isindispensableinnavigatingcomplex challengesandseizingtransformative opportunities.
Lookingahead,thefutureofwomen leadersinIndianeducationholds immensepromiseforadvancing educationalequity,excellence,and innovation.Bycontinuingtoadvocate forinclusivepolicies,harnessing technologytoenhancelearning outcomes,andempowering marginalizedcommunities,women leaderswillplayapivotalrolein shapingIndia'seducationallandscape andrealizingitsvisionofaknowledgedrivensociety.
Harsimar D
Advocating Social Causes with Passion and Dedication
Embodyingthespiritof passionateindividuals dedicatedtoservingasocial causeHarsimarD,theCOOofLittle IndiaFoundation,iscommittedto makingtheworldabetterplace. Harsimar'sjourneyisoneof selflessnessanddedicationtofulfilling herlifelongdesiretogivebackto society.
Harsimaremphasizesaleadershipstyle rootedintheorganization'smission andguidedbyfaith.Decision-making ischaracterizedbyaninclusiveprocess thatvaluesinputfromallteam members,regardlessofseniority.This approachfostersademocratic environmentwhereeveryone's perspectivesareconsideredvaluable, whethertheyareaseasonedsenior memberoranewintern.Byleveraging thecollectivewisdomoftheteam, LittleIndiaFoundationensuresthat decisionsreflectdiverseviewpoints andcontributetotheorganization's overallmissionandgoals.
ATaleofPassionandCollaboration
Harsimaroftenrecountsapivotal momentinherjourney,whichshe considersthecatalystforhercurrent endeavors.Itallbeganwithher daughter'swishtoparticipateinLittle IndiaFoundation's'ArtforaCause' competition,aneventsupportingthe NGO'snoblemission.Inspiredbyher daughter'sinitiative,Harsimarbecame deeplyinvolvedwiththefoundation, eagertocontributeinanyway possible.
Harsimar D
COO, Little India Foundation
At Little India Foundation we endeavor to carry forward not just numerical skills but also soft skills such as painting and singing in dancing with a collective effect.
Collaboratingwithindividualslike Salim,Harsimarembarkedonvarious flagshipprojects,includingthecreation ofthe'NariShaktiAwards'tohonor womenwhoexemplifystrengthand inspireothers.Fueledbytheir collectivebeliefinthepowerofGod andtheirowninitiatives,they perseveredintheirmission.
Today,theireffortshavemadea tangibledifferenceinthelivesof hundreds,ifnotthousands,of individuals.Throughinitiativessuchas providingfoodtothehungryand offeringuniqueeducational opportunities,theyhaveempowered communitiesandbroughtcountless smilestofaces.Harsimar'sjourney exemplifiesthetransformativeimpact thatpassion,collaboration,anda sharedvisioncanhaveoncreating positivechangeinsociety
Women'sEmpowermentInitiatives
Asawomanoperatinginthe predominantlymale-dominatedfieldof philanthropyandcharitydistribution, Harsimarrecognizestheunique challengesandopportunities
thispresents.Shevaluesthe opportunitytomakeadifferenceandis committedtoleveragingherposition forpositiveimpact.
Theflagshipprojectsundertakenby LittleIndiaFoundation,suchas providingdailymealstotheneedy, reflectalargergoalofensuringthatno childgoestobedhungry.Inlinewith theirdedicationtowomen's empowerment,initiativesliketheNari ShaktiAwardsofferaplatformto recognizeandcelebratewomenwho excelinentrepreneurshipandother fields.Throughtheseefforts,Little IndiaFoundationaimstobring happinessandsupporttooften overlookedsegmentsofsociety, demonstratingacommitmentto inclusivityandsocialjustice.
CoreMissionofFeedingHungry Children
Thisyear,LittleIndiaFoundation
remainssteadfastinitscommitmentto itscoremission:feedingasmany hungrychildrenaspossible.Inaddition tothisessentialinitiative,the foundationhasintroducedinnovative waystoenrichthelivesofthese children.Theyhaveintegrated extracurricularactivitiesintotheir curriculum,providingopportunitiesfor thechildrentoengageingroup activities,games,andevenamagic showtoappreciatetheartofillusion.
Furthermore,LittleIndiaFoundation hasexpandeditsofferingsbyinitiating remedialclassesandprovidingtraining inavarietyofskills,includingcircus arts,theater,sewing,anddance.These endeavorsaimtoempowerboth childrenandwomen,offeringthem avenuesforpersonalgrowthandselfexpression.
Bybroadeningtheirscopeofactivities andopportunities,
LittleIndiaFoundationcontinuesto bringjoyandenrichmenttothelivesof thosetheyserve,demonstratingtheir ongoingcommitmenttomakinga positiveimpactintheircommunity.
EngagementandMotivationof Children
AccordingtoHarsimar,oneofthe biggestchallengesfacedbyLittleIndia Foundationisconvincingparentsto enrolltheirchildreninthefoundation's programs.Despitetheirwillingnessto sendtheirchildrenforclasses,parents
oftenhavereservationsduetopersonal goalsfortheirchildrenandother commitments.Additionally,evenif childrenexpressinterest,itcanbe difficulttokeepthemengagedand motivatedtosustaintheirparticipation.
Toaddressthischallenge,LittleIndia Foundationhasimplementednew remedialactivitiesaimedat incentivizingandsustainingchildren's participation.Theseinitiativesare designedtoovercomebarriersand ensurethatchildrenandtheirfamilies
recognizethevalueandbenefitsofthe foundation'sprograms.Through ongoingeffortstoengageandsupport bothchildrenandparents,LittleIndia Foundationaimstoovercomethese challengesandcontinuemakinga positiveimpactinthecommunity.
EngagingSocialMediaPresence
HarsimarbelievesthatLittleIndia Foundation'smosteffectiveuseof technologyisthroughengagingsocial mediaplatforms.Byleveraging platformslikeInstagram,LinkedIn, andemployingSEOspecialiststo enhancetheironlinepresence,the foundationaimstoreachabroader audience.Thisstrategyextendsbeyond socialmediatoincludetheirrevamped website,ensuringthattheymaximize theirvisibilityandengagementacross digitalchannels.
Recognizingthecrucialroleof sponsorsinsupportingtheirmission, LittleIndiaFoundationutilizes technologytoconnectwithmore peopleandraisefundsfortheircause. Throughstrategicuseoftechnology, thefoundationendeavorstoexpandits reach,ultimatelyincreasingitsimpact inprovidingmealsandsupporttothose inneed.
InclusiveEducationforChildren's Growth
AtLittleIndiaFoundation,Harsimar emphasizestheimportanceoffostering notonlynumericalskillsbutalsosoft skillsamongthechildrentheyserve. Throughaholisticapproachto educationandenrichment,the foundationintroducesengaging activitiessuchaspainting,singing,and dancing,encouragingcollective participationandcreativity.
Tofurtherengagethechildren,Little IndiaFoundationorganizeseventslike magicshowsandgroupgames,
fosteringhealthycompetitionand camaraderieamongpeers. Additionally,thefoundationhas introducedremedialclassesinvarious disciplines,includingcircustraining, sewing,dance,theater,andart,catering tostudentsofallageswhoexpress interestinexpandingtheirskillsetand exploringnewpassions.Throughthese initiatives,LittleIndiaFoundation aimstoprovidecomprehensive opportunitiesforgrowthand development,empoweringchildrento unlocktheirfullpotential.
RecognitionsandHonors
LittleIndiaFoundationtakesimmense prideinwitnessingthesmilesof childrenaftertheyhaveenjoyeda nutritiousmealorparticipatedin engagingclasses,consideringittheir greatestachievement.However,their effortshavealsogarneredrecognition andhonorsfromvariousesteemed platforms.Someofthenotable accoladesinclude:
• WomenwhoWin:Guestof HonourforWomen’sDay
• RajdhaniGauravAwards:Best SupporterandBestSocialActivist
• HBWNewsGlobalAchievers Awards2021
• WomenIconOftheYearAward 2022
• InternationalWomen’sDay2020 PledgebytheMinistryofWomen andChildDevelopment
• GauravRajdhaniAwards,Seasons 2and3
• TheCitySalutesYouAwardby SelectCityWalk
• KrishnaSocialWelfareAward
• JayanFoundationAward
• InnerWheelClubofDelhiVasant ViharCoronaAward
• GreatSportsCulturalClub Samman
• HariNarayanMemorialTrust Award
Most Influential Women Shaping India’s Future, 2024
• United-ForumPeaceandHarmony Award
• AgritiEkMasahaalAward
• Shakti2.0Award
At our ‘Learn with Fun’ centres, we ensure that the children do not just learn the basic alphabetical and numerical skills but also inculcate soft skills such as drawing and painting and learning the joy of sharing and caring for others.
Thesehonorsserveasatestamentto theimpactfulworkanddedicationof LittleIndiaFoundationinservingthe communityandempoweringwomen andchildren.
InspirationfromArtforCause Competition
Thedecisiontojointhecollective initiativetofeedhungrychildren throughLittleIndiaFoundationwas inspiredbyHarsimar'sdaughter's participationinthe'ArtforCause' competition.Witnessingtheimmediate impactoftheireffortsthroughthe smilestheybringtochildren'sfaces reaffirmstheircommitmenttothe causewitheachpassingday Asmore like-mindedindividualsjointheir endeavor,theirfamilycontinuesto grow,drivenbythetangibleresultsand thefulfillmentofmakingapositive differenceinthelivesofothers.Itis thevisibleoutcomesandtheshared senseofpurposethatfueltheirpassion anddedicationtocontinuetheirwork.
SharingImportanceofBoth AcademicandSocialGrowth
AtLittleIndiaFoundation's'Learn withFun'centers,theemphasisextends
beyondtraditionalacademicskillsto encompassthedevelopmentofsoft skillssuchasartisticexpression, empathy,andteamwork.The organizationbelievesinnurturingwellroundedindividualswhorecognizethe importanceofbothacademicand socialdevelopment.Inadditionto conventionalclassroomeducation, childrenareexposedtoextracurricular activitieslikeschoolsportsdays, promotingabalanceofphysicaland mentalwell-being.
Lookingforward,thefoundation intendstobroadenitsofferingsby introducingremedialclassesinvarious creativedisciplinessuchasdance, painting,acting,andsewing.These classeswillcaternotonlytoteenagers butalsotowomenandolder individualsseekingopportunitiesfor personalgrowthandenrichment.The overarchinggoalremainstofacilitate holisticdevelopmentandfostera cultureoflifelonglearningforall participants.
StayingTruetoOneself
Harsimar'sadvicetowomenaspiring toenterthisfieldisinvaluable.She emphasizestheimportanceof resilienceinthefaceofsetbacksand challenges,urgingwomentopersevere evenwhenfacedwithobstacles. Additionally,shehighlightsthe significanceofmaintainingahealthy work-lifebalanceandprioritizingselfcare,particularlyinenvironments wherewomenmayface discouragementorsocietalpressures. Bystayingtruetooneself,listeningto innerguidance,andsurrounding oneselfwithsupportiveanddetermined individuals,womencansteadily progresstowardtheirgoalsandmakea meaningfulimpactintheirchosen field.
Mrs.
Saroj Khosla
An Eminent Educator Focused on Excellence and Innovation
TheeducationsectorinIndiahasevolvedmanifoldswhile openingdoorsofequalopportunitiestomalesand females.Intoday’sage,womenhavecompletefreedom topursueanycoursetheywantandbuildasuccessfulcareerin anyfieldoftheirchoice.Moreover,womenhavealsomadea markintheeducationsector.Theyhaveemergedassuccessful mentorsandeducatorswhilenurturingthestudentsandassisting themtobecometheleadersoftomorrow
Mrs. Saroj Khosla President,
Foundation for Life Sciences and Business Management (FLSBM), Shoolini University, Shimla
Most Influential Women Shaping India’s Future, 2024
Withtheirnever-give-upattitudeand dedicatedendeavours,these prominentwomenarechangingthe faceoftheeducationsectoraswe knowit.Onesuchprominent personalityamongtheleagueof renownedwomeneducationalleaders isMrs.SarojKhosla,thePresident oftheFoundationforLifeSciences andBusinessManagement
ApostgraduatefromtheUniversity ofOxfordintheUnitedKingdom, Mrs.Sarojisaneducationistwith extensiveexperienceinmanaging academicorganisations.Shecomes
My prime objective is to ensure the academic welfare development of the students.
fromafamilythatisdeeplycommitted totheteachingprofession.After graduatingfromSt.Stephen’sCollege inDelhi,Mrs.Saroj’sfatherMr.M.L. HandamovedtoLahoretostudylaw. However,hechangedhismindand decidedtobecomeateacher.Hefirmly believedthatgirlsshouldbeeducated sothattheycanbeindependentand becomeassetsfortheirfamiliesrather thanliabilities.Hewasarenowned educationistandanuprightmanwho servedasarolemodelforMrs.Saroj andinspiredhertochoosethenoble professionofteaching.Herthree sisterswentontobecometeachers, whilethefourthonepursuedacareer inmedicine.Herpaternaluncle,who wasthepresssecretarytoDr.Rajendra Prasad,India'sfirstPresident,also encouragedthesiblings’decisionto pursuehigherstudies.
ProfPremKumarKhosla,MrsSaroj’s husbandandaninternationally distinguishedacademician,provided unwaveringsupportthroughouther teachingcareer.ProfKhoslahasadded newdimensionstohighereducation andresearchinIndianUniversities.
HehasservedasVice-Chancellor, HPAU,Palampur(HP),andasSenior ScientificAdvisortotheGovernment ofHimachalPradeshandhasbeen responsibleforguidingitsscience policy.HebecamethefirstViceChancelloroftheShooliniUniversity andispresentlyitsChancellor
Prof.KhoslaandMrs.Khosla complementedeachotherthroughout theiracademicjourneys.In1972,they wenttotheU.K.,whereProf.Khosla conductedpost-doctoralresearchin treegeneticsatOxfordUniversityona CommonwealthFellowshipforthree years.Mrs.Khoslatookadvantageof herhusband’svisitbyenrollingina one-yearcourseoninternational educationatthesameuniversity
AnInspirationalJourney
TheKhoslashaveshownan inspirationalsenseofinitiativeand entrepreneurialacumenintheirover fourdecadesofuntiringwork.When peopleprefertoretirefromactivework andspendquiettimeathome,they tookacalculatedrisktoinvesttheir lifetimesavingsinestablishinga
Mrs. Khosla welcoming former President of India, Late Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam to Shoolini University at the First Convocation in 2013
not-for-profitorganizationafterretiring fromtheirrespectivejobs.Theysetup theFoundationforLifeSciencesand BusinessManagement(FLSBM)in 2004withamissiontoprovide affordablequalityeducationtothe youthfromruralandsemi-urbanareas ofHimachalPradesh.Theywere focusedontheirvisionofusingscience asatooltoempowerthemarginal farmersofHimachalPradesh.They emphasisedtheresearchandstudyof thestate'sbiodiversityfor environmentalconservation.Moreover, theyarepassionateaboutcreatinga globallyrecognizedandworld-class privateuniversity Theirthinkinghas beenaheadoftimeandhasalways beenfollowedupwithresult-oriented action.
AResponsibleandDynamicLeader
Mrs.SarojKhoslaisthe President of
theFLSBM,whichwasfoundedwith theaimofusingfrontierareasofbio andmanagementsciencesforthe socio-economicupliftmentof Himalayanpeopleingeneral,and HimachalPradeshinparticular.The Foundation’sprimarygoalisto develophigh-qualityhumanresources inbiotechnology,basicandapplied sciences,engineering,liberalartsand theirintegrationwithmanagement disciplines.
TheFLSBMmanagestwoprestigious educationalinstitutions:Shoolini InstituteofLifeSciencesandBusiness Management(SILB),foundedin2004, andtheShooliniUniversityof BiotechnologyandBusiness Management,establishedin2009.
Mrs.KhoslaisalsotheChairperson ofSILB,which isthemostprestigious
institutionofHimachalPradesh University.Sheisaneducationistwho isself-motivatedandresult-oriented. SheretiredfromtheHimachalPradesh EducationServicesasPrincipalofthe DistrictInstituteofEducationand TraininginSolan,whereshewas involvedintheacademicexcellenceof preandin-serviceteachers.Shefirmly believesinthegreateducatorGurudev RabindranathTagore'sphilosophyof “Where the mind is fearless, and the head is held high.” Accordingtoher, highlydedicatedteachersgivetheir verybesttotheirstudents,andstudents learnthebestpractices,allowingthem tobecomevirtuouscitizensofthe nation.
Shehasbeenconferredwiththe prestigious‘AcademicExcellence Award’byAdoptionofSocialMediain Academia(ASMA),theleadingglobal
I am passionate about nurturing the students and in ensuring that they succeed in their careers.
communityofAcademia. “Your leadership in the field of education is extraordinary,” saidthecitation presentedtoMrsKhoslaaspartof itsinitiativeonthe‘Trailblazing womenleadersinIndian education’.
BelieverinFamilyValuesand Students’Welfare
Mrs.Khoslabelievesinfamily values.Thisisevidentfromthefact thatsheandhersistersalwaystook goodcareoftheirmotheranddid notleaveheraloneevenforaday, despitetheirownfamilyand professionalcommitments. Students’welfareandtheir educationisverydeartoherheart. Sheisespeciallypassionateabout buildingtheircareers.Mrs.Khosla opinesthattheNewEducation Policy(NEP)wouldprovide academicfreedomtostudentsfor pursuingthesubjectsoftheir interestandaholisticeducation.
BothProfKhoslaandMrsKhosla belongtoParmahansaYogananda Orderandhavefullyimbibedtheir guru’steachings.
AboutShooliniUniversity
ShooliniUniversitywasestablishedin 2009byacademicianswithaveryclear visiontobeamongstthetop200global universitiesby2022.Torealisethis boldambition,significanteffortswere madeintheareasofresearch,teaching andlearning,andthecreationof world-classinfrastructure.Becauseof
Chancellor PK Khosla, Saroj Khosla and Vice Chancellor Atul Khosla water a newly planted sapling in Shoolini University campus #environment
itsadvantageouslocationinthe Himalayas,ShooliniUniversity decidedtoconcentrateallitsresearch operationsinandaroundthe Himalayas,andresearchcentresof excellencewereestablishedtothatend.
Variousnationalandinternational agencieshaverecognizedthe university’sresearchpotential,which havefundedseveralcompetitive researchprojects,totallingmorethan Rs40crore.Thevarsityisalso assistingindustriesthrough consultancyprojects.Itsresearch qualityindicators,suchasField WeightedCitationImpact(FWCI) (2.04),citationsperpublication(13.5), andpercentinternationalcollaboration (57.8%),havealwaysbeenatthetop oftheIndianeducationandresearch institutions.However,theuniversityis nowcompetingwithsomeofthebest intheworld.ShooliniisoneofIndia’s toppatentfilers,havingfiled800+ patents,100ofwhichhavebeen granted.Itscurrenth-indexis82, whichisthesecondhighestofall institutionsanduniversitiesestablished after2009.
Inthe2021NIRF-MHRDRankings, ShooliniUniversitywasplaced89th outofthetop100institutionsinthe country,withtheSchoolof PharmaceuticalSciencesat36th,the FacultyofManagementat76-100,and theSchoolofEngineeringat103rd. Theuniversityisrankedfirstinthe countryandsixthinAsiaintheQS Asia2022rankingsforcitationsper publication,asignofhigh-quality research.
Thecampuswasawardedoneof India’stopcleanestcampusesinthe SwachhBharatSurvey2020and YoganandaLibraryhaswonseveral nationalandinternationalarchitectural awards.
Founders of Shoolini University: Saroj Khosla and Chancellor PK Khosla
