Vidya Yeravdekar Principal Director, Symbiosis and Pro-chancellor, Symbiosis Interna onal (Deemed University)
Valuing the Vanguards of Education
Fromtheearlypioneerswho foughtforwomen'srightto educationtothemodern-day leadersshapingthefutureoflearning, womenhaveconsistentlypushed boundariesandshatteredglassceilings inthepursuitofknowledgeand progress.
Intherealmofeducation,womenhave beenthevanguardsofinnovationand transformation,drivingchangeand advocatingforinclusiveandequitable accesstolearningopportunities.In today'sworldofconstantevolution, characterizedbytechnological advancements,globalization,and shiftingparadigmsofteachingand learning,theroleofwomenhas becomeevenmorecrucial.
As The Knowledge Review celebrates the"Top5UnstoppableWomenin theEducationalSector,2024,"it aimstorecognizetheirsignificant contributionstoshapingtheeducation ofthenewage.
Thesewomenarenotonlyleadersin theirrespectivefieldsbutalsopioneers whohaverevolutionizedteaching methodologies,curriculum development,andeducationalpolicies.
Aswelooktothefuture,thesewomen willundoubtedlycontinuetoserveas catalystsforchange,drivingprogress andinnovationintheeducational sector.Theirvision,passion,and dedicationtoexcellencewillinspire futuregenerationsofeducators, leaders,andchange-makerstocontinue theworkofbuildingamoreinclusive, equitable,andprosperoussociety througheducation.
Ourpursuitistohighlighttheinspiring storiesandaccomplishmentsofthese extraordinarywomenwhohave overcomeobstaclesandmadealasting impactontheeducationalsector.From pioneeringnewapproachesto educationtoadvocatingfortherights ofmarginalizedcommunities.
Inthisedition,wecelebratethe achievementsoftheseremarkable womenandhonortheirinvaluable contributionstothefieldofeducation. Theirstoriessignifythepowerof perseverance,determination,and leadershipinshapingthefutureof learningandfosteringpositivesocial change.
Have an engaging read!
Ed ors
MuskanKapoor
- Muskan Kapoor
Bakhtawar Krishnan
Creators
of this Publication
Editor-in-Chief Pooja Bansal
Managing Editor Muskan Kapoor
Contributing Writer Kabir Sinha
Art & Design Head and Visualiser
Rahul Shinde
Co-designer Saurabh Gole
Vice President Swapnali Vasaikar
Asst. Vice President Ashwini Pahurkar
BDM Naitiki Ambekar
Sr. BDE Vikram Chauhan
Technical Specialist Rajeshwari Avhad
Digital Marketing Manager Renuka Kulkarni
SME-SMO Executive Sagar Lahigade
Circulation Manager Tanaji Fartade
Brief Name
Bakhtawar Krishnan
Dr Snehal Pinto
Dr. Vidya Yeravdekar
Designation
Founder and CEO, Inspirus Education
Director, Ryan International Group of Institutions
Principal Director, Symbiosis and Pro-Chancellor, Symbiosis International (Deemed University)
Bakhtawar's story serves as an inspiration for aspiring entrepreneurs, emphasizing the importance of thinking big, taking calculated risks and staying true to one's vision.
Dr Snehal's journey from a primary school teacher to a prominent educational influencer reflects her lifelong commitment to learning and development.
As a woman leader, Dr. Vidya champions women empowerment in higher education, with over 50 percent of leadership positions at Symbiosis held by women.
Ms. Shalini Mehrotra
Ms Shallu Jindal
Principal, Vidya Devi Jindal School
Chancellor, OP Jindal University (OPJU), Raigarh
Ms. Shalini envisions Vidya Devi Jindal School as a catalyst for nurturing well-rounded individuals equipped with the skills and mindset to navigate a rapidly changing world.
Ms Shallu believes in using her blessings to aid the less fortunate, aiming to make a tangible difference in their lives.
CoverStory
Vidya Dr.
Yeravdekar
Crafting an Inclusive and Holistic Educational Set-up
As a woman in the higher educa on sector, what I like the most is that I see many women entering this sector as professionals.
Dr. Vidya Yeravdekar
Principal Director, Symbiosis and Pro-chancellor, Symbiosis Interna onal (Deemed University)
Educationempowersindividuals anddrivesprogressin communities,impactingsocial, cultural,andeconomicdevelopment. Educationists,asleadersinthisfield, playacrucialroleinshapingthe educationalsystem.Theyintroduce innovativeapproacheswithresilience, empathy,humility,andan entrepreneurialmindset,embodying transformativeleadershipphilosophies.
Thesemotivatingleadersaren’t reluctanttodreambigbecausetheysee thebiggerpicture.Theyconfidently operate,takemeasuredchances,and significantlyimpacttheconstantly evolvingeducationallandscape.Dr. VidyaYeravdekarisashining exampleofwomenmakinga differenceintheeducationalsector BeingthePrincipalDirectorof SymbiosisandPro-Chancellorof SymbiosisInternational(Deemed University),sheisdeterminedtofoster positivetransformationsthatwillcraft astudent-centricenvironment.
Herjourneyintheeducationsectorisa taleofdestiny.Shewasapracticing medicaldoctor,havingherhospitalin Indiaandthenworkingwiththe MinistryofHealthinMuscat,Oman. Afteraboutsixyearsofworking,she returnedandstartedhelpingherfather inthedailyoperationsofSymbiosis, andthatishowshegotintothe educationsector
Sincethen,shehasbeeninthehigher educationsector,andshethoroughly enjoysbeinganeducationleader,not justworkingforSymbiosisbutalso workingonGovernmentandQuasiGovernmentbodiessuchasFICCI, wheresheistheChairforHigher Education.Thus,shegetstobeapart ofpolicymakingfortheIndianHigher Educationsector.
EncouragingWomenEmpowerment
Asawomaninthehighereducation sector,whatDr Vidyalikesthemostis thatsheseesmanywomenentering thissectorasprofessionals.At Symbiosis,morethan50percentofthe leadershippositionsaretakenby women.Sheishappytosaythateven amongthestudentpopulation,55 percentarewomen.Asauniversity, Symbiosishasestablishedthe SymbiosisMedicalCollege,whichis exclusivelyforwomen.Shefeelsthat includingwomeninprofessional careersisessential,especiallyina countrylikeIndia,whichwillhelp empowerwomen.
ExpandingtheInstitute
In2024,Dr Vidyaandherstaffin Symbiosishavesetthegoalof establishingtheirfirstinternational campusinDubai.SIUDubaihasbeen approvedbytheMinistryofEducation, Govt.ofIndia.Itisunderprocessof accreditationbyCAA,theMinistryof Education,UAE.
Thiswillbe amultidisciplinary campusinDubai.AsSymbiosisgetsa
lotofstudentsfromtheGulfregion, WestAsia,andAfricaandahuge IndiandiasporaintheGulfRegion, thiscampuswillhelpthesestudentsto getaqualityeducationwiththe SymbiosisInternationalUniversity degreesrightthereinDubai.
ASmoothEducationalSet-up
TheIndianeducationsystempreserves thebalanceandfoundationsofa comprehensiveadvancementprocess. Itmakesanefforttopromoteboth cognitiveadvantagesandlinguistic variety.Itcreatesacollaborativeand experimentallearningenvironment centeredonthestudent.
Dr Vidyahasn’tencounteredany challengesintheHigherEducation sector.ShesaysthattheGovernment ofIndiaandthepresentMinistryof Educationareveryopenand approachable.AccordingtoDr.Vidya, theNewEducationPolicythatthe MinistryofEducationrolledoutis veryprogressiveandfocusesonthe student'sholisticdevelopment.She doesnotforeseeanychallengesinthe IndianHighereducationsector
I plan to u lize the enhancement in technology to invite a wave of transforma on in the Indian educa on system.
LeveragingTechnologytoEnhance theEducationalSet-up
Inthe21stcentury,technologyplays themostcrucialroleineveryfield.It’s nolongeranoption;it’sanecessity Theeducationsectorhaswitnessedthe mostprofoundtransformationdueto technologicalenhancements.Itmakes lifeconvenientandeducationmore accessible,personalized,andengaging.
Dr Vidyaisavisionarywhoplansto utilizethisenhancementintechnology toinviteawaveoftransformationin theIndianeducationsystem;according toher,Indiahasoneofthelargest educationsystemsintheworld. Despitethat,thegrossenrolmentratio isonly27.SheaimstoreachaGross EnrolmentRatioof50by2030.
Dr Vidyaseesalotofcompanies comingupwiththelatesttechnologyto accomplishthis.Also,Symbiosis impartsdegreesthroughtheonline medium.Thiswillhelpincreasethe GERandcontributetoupskillingthe studentswhocomefromruralareas anddonothaveaccesstogood universities.Thatpromotesquality highereducation.
AUniqueLeadershipMethod
Regardingleadershipandinitiatives, Symbiosisworkswiththemantraof decentralization,whichmeansthatthe universityempowersthedirectorsof variousdepartmentsanddeansof diversefacultytoruntheirdomainhow theywantto.
TheUniversityhasdefineditsstrategy, butonceithasdefinedtheplan,itis lefttotheindividualdeansand directorstoruntheirdomains. AccordingtoDr Vidya,thiskindof empowermentbringsasenseof belonging.AtSymbiosis,
thisdecentralizedmodeofleadership hashelpedwalkthepathofsuccess.
The fundamental principle I define my leadership style with is decentralizing the work.
AwardsandRecognitions:An InspirationtoKeepGoing
Awardsareatestamenttoan organization'sachievementsandarea sourceofinspirationtoothers,in additiontoexpressinggratitudefor theirhardwork.ThoughDr Vidyahas receivedafewawardsforher contributiontoHighereducationin India,shetakesprideinmentioningthe awardsthatherfather,Dr.S.B. Mujumdar,theFounderofSymbiosis, hasreceived:thePadmaShriandthe
PadmaBhushanforhiscontributionto theeducationsectorinIndia.
Thishasencouragedalltheemployees atSymbiosistoperformbetter.Asshe says, “So, awards and recognitions are a way to encourage people and organizations to do better.”
EfficientLeadershipPrinciples
Decision-makingandleadershipskills holdgreatvalueforleadersinthe educationdomain.Dr.Vidyahasfaith inthepeoplewhoworkwithher.She hasateamapproach,encourages peopletoworkinteams,andgives
credittopeopleforSymbiosis's success,notherself.
Thisempowermenthashelpedto highlightthecumulativeeffortsofthe team.Shehasalsoimbibedalotof leadershipqualitiesfromherfather,Dr. Mujumdar.Hehasalwayshadthe mantraofhavingfaithinthepeople whoworkforhimsothattheyfeel empoweredandhaveasenseof belongingthatleadsthemtoworkeven betterfortheorganization.
StrategiesthatEnhanceLearning Symbiosisoffersamultidisciplinary
educationalprogram.AccordingtoDr. Vidya,studentswillbenefitfromthe NewEducationPolicy,whichwill emphasizeliberaleducationand changethethree-yearUGprograminto afour-yearUGprogram.Experiential learningwillbeheavilyemphasized.
AsahallmarkofSymbiosis,students willlearnbeyondwhattheylearnin theclassroom.Additionally,Symbiosis isaveryinclusiveanddiverse universitywherestudentscomefrom alloverIndiaaswellasothernations. StudentsatSymbiosisstandout asa resultofthis,whichalsocontributesto thedevelopmentoftheirpersonalities andcharacterswhentheyleavethe campus.
Dr.Vidya’sProficienciesandPowers Dr Vidyaholdsapostgraduatedegree inmedicine,adegreeinlaw,anda Ph.D.in'InternationalizationofHigher EducationinIndia.’Havingpresented papersatvariousnationaland Internationalconferences,shehas numerousresearchpublicationstoher creditandhasalsoauthoredseveral books.RankedNo.14amongstIndia’s top25PowerfulWomen,Dr.Vidyahas beeninstrumentalinbringingin innovativeapproachestopromotethe internationalizationofhighereducation inIndia.
AsamemberoftheUniversityGrants Commission(UGC)fortwoterms,the CentralAdvisoryBoardofEducation (CABE)undertheMinistryof Education,andtheIndianCouncilfor CulturalRelations(ICCR)underthe MinistryofExternalAffairs,shehas beenafacilitatorofinnovative approachestohighereducationin India.
Dr.Vidyahasbeenappointedasa memberoftheexpertgrouponGlobal OutreachofHigherEducation, formulatedbyUGCtoimplementthe
NationalEducationPolicy2020that wasrolledoutbytheMinistryof EducationGovt.ofIndia,memberof theAdvisoryGroupofAnalyticaland Advisorywork(ASA)WorldBank, AdvisoryCommitteeoftheIAUfor theglobalsurveyon internationalizationandmemberofthe BoardofTrusteesofMuscat University,Oman.
SheistheChairpersonoftheFICCI CommitteeonHigherEducationandis servingherthirdterm.Sheisalsothe
VicePresidentoftheMahratta ChamberofCommerce,Industries,and Agriculture(MCCIA).Dr Vidyahas beenappointedasaMemberofthe IndiaBrandEquityFoundation(IBEF) TrustsetupbytheMinistryof Commerce&Industries,Government ofIndia,topromotethe‘BrandIndia’ labelinoverseasmarkets,memberof theExpertGroupconstitutedbythe UGCforDevelopmentofEducational FrameworkforGlobalCitizenshipin HigherEducationInstitutionsand UGCExpertCommitteeconstitutedto
preparetheguidelinesforCredit-Based CoursesandInternshipopportunities.
ShehasbeenelectedasMemberofthe CentralGoverningCouncilofServices ExportPromotionCouncil(SEPC)set upbytheMinistryofCommerce& Industry,GovernmentofIndia, MemberoftheGeneralAssemblyof theIndianCouncilforCultural Relations(ICCR),GoverningBodyof YashwantraoChavanAcademyof DevelopmentAdministration (YASHADA),GoverningBoard
I want to make a special men on of the Awards that my father, Dr. S. B. Mujumdar, the Founder of Symbiosis, has received: the Padma Shri and the Padma Bhushan for his contribu on to the educa on sector in India.
MemberoftheInternationalSports University,Governmentof MaharashtraandMemberoftheNEP implementationcommitteeof GovernmentofMaharashtra.Shealso servesontheBoardofDirectorsof EmcurePharmaceuticalsLtdandBajaj Holdings&InvestmentLimited.
Dr Vidyahasbeenappointedasthe firstChairoftheOBREALGlobal IndiaChapterforaperiodofthree years.SheisamemberoftheBoardof severalorganizationslike
RayatShikshanSanstha,theResearch CommitteeoftheAssociationofIndian Universities(AIU),PublicHealth FoundationofIndia,Symbiosis UniversityofAppliedSciencesIndore, SymbiosisSkillsandOpenUniversity, Pune.
Sheisamemberofmanycorporate bodiessuchastheFederationofIndian ChambersofCommerce&Industry (FICCI),ConfederationofIndia Industry(CII),MahrattaChambersof CommerceandIndustries(MCCIA), andnotforprofitorganizationslike HKFirodiyaFoundation,India InternationalCentre(IIC)&Pune InternationalCentre(PIC).
Shehasalsobeenamemberonmany otherorganizationssuchas IndependentDirectorontheBoardof
RITESLimitedunderMinistryof Railways,GovernmentofIndia, EducationQualityUpgradationand InclusionProgramme(EQUIP) Committee,MinistryofEducation, Govt.ofIndia,IndianInstituteof CorporateAffairs,Yashwantrao ChavanMaharashtraOpenUniversity, StateKnowledgeAdvisoryBoardof HigherEducation,Governmentof AndhraPradesh,Sub-GrouponHigher &TechnicalEducationandSkill DevelopmentofChiefMinister’s AdvisoryCouncil,Governmentof Rajasthantonameafew
Dr.Vidya’shardworkhaswonher numerousawardsandaccolades.Her continuousendeavourtoinnovateand initiatehashelpedSymbiosisattainits presentrespectandadmiration.Having accomplishedallsuchfeats,Dr Vidya isnowcommittedtoshapingIndian highereducationgloballythroughher extensiveworkinthefieldof internationalizationofhigher education.
HergoalistoelevateSymbiosis International(DeemedUniversity)to thestatusofoneofAsia'stop universities.
Currently,itoffersattractive employmentopportunitiesand inclusiveeducation.Dr Vidyahas skilfullymouldedherfather'svision, makingfreedomofthoughtand expressiontheessenceofthis incredibleUniversityandthelaw,its religion.
BakhtawarKrishnan FounderandCEO, InspirusEducation
Bakhtawar Krishnan
Navigating the Entrepreneurial Landscape with Courage and Clarity
Inspire-us, as the name quite obviously suggests, intends to inspire young students to dream fearlessly and work hard to get to their goals.
Top 5 Unstoppable Women in Educa onal Sector, 2024
Entrepreneursfacethedynamic businesslandscapewithavital combinationofcourageand clarity.Couragepropelsthemto conquerchallengesandtakecalculated risks,whileclarityprovidesafocusfor settingobjectivesandmakinginformed decisions.Theseessentialqualities empowerentrepreneurstoadapt, innovate,andpersevere.Withcourage, theyembracegrowthopportunities, andwithclarity,theysteeractions towardstheirentrepreneurialvision.
BakhtawarKrishnan,aseasoned professionalwithtwodecadesof corporateexperience,embarkedona remarkablejourneyshapedbythese principles.Throughoutherextensive tenure,shecultivatedinvaluable
expertiseacrossvariousroles, ultimatelyfindingherselfinaposition thatfillsherwithimmensesatisfaction andjoy
BakhtawarKrishnan,Founderand CEOofInspirusEducation, possessesaremarkablesetofqualities thatdrivehersuccess.Withan insatiablethirstforlearning,she continuallyexpandsherknowledge andstaysaheadinanever-evolving world.Bakhtawar'sinnovativethinking generatestransformativeideas, exploringnewperspectivesand envisioningsolutions.
Sheexcelsatanalyzingcomplexdata andderivingclearconclusionswithher keeneyefordetail.Thrivingin
collaborativeenvironments, Bakhtawar'steamworkskillscontribute tocollectivesuccess.Herpassionfor learning,creativemindset,analytical acumen,andcollaborativenature positionherasacatalystfor innovation,propellingherendeavors forward.
EmbracingtheUnexpected
Intherealmofunforeseen circumstances,lifetookanunexpected turnforBakhtawarKrishnan.Atthe time,shewasdiligentlyengagedinher workatHSBCwhenacustomer presentedherwithaunique proposition.Withouthesitation,she embracedtheopportunitythatwould ultimatelyleadherintotherealmof entrepreneurship.Itwasattheageof
45thatBakhtawar,afirst-generation entrepreneur,embarkedonthisnew chapterinherlife,enteringtheworld ofbusinesslaterthananticipated.
In2013,Bakhtawartransitionedinto theeducationsector,drivenbyaclear visiontoassiststudentsinrealizing theiraspirationsofstudyingabroad.It wasin2017thattheconceptof InspirusEducationtookshape.With unwaveringdedication,Bakhtawarand herteamaimedtocreateasenseof delightandcontentmentforstudents andtheirparentsthroughtheirservices.
Asacomprehensivesolutionprovider forstudyingabroad,Inspirus Educationundertakesallnecessary entrancetests,ensuringstudents' seamlessprogressionintothetop100 universitiesworldwide.Witnessingthe sheerhappinessradiatingfromthe facesoftheirstudentsservedasa
At Inspirus, the targets are never compromised, but neither is the need of any employee. Teamwork and a spirit of equanimity ensure barriers are not allowed to gain permanent ground, and success is celebrated in team achievements of ‘US’ not just that of ‘I.’
constantreminderofthepurposeand fulfillmentthatworkinginthe educationindustrybroughtto BakhtawarKrishnan'slife.
FlourishingThroughConnections
BakhtawarKrishnanactivelyengages herselfinvariousgroups,findingher placeamidstthedynamiclandscapeof entrepreneurship.Amongthesegroups, shehasjoinedthewomen’s entrepreneurshipcircles,whereshenot onlycontributedherknowledgebut alsogainedvaluableinsights.
Shealsoimmersedherselfinother groupsspecificallytailoredforwomen entrepreneurs,enablinghertostay
well-informedaboutthelatest developmentsintheworldof entrepreneurship.
Keepingeducationasapriority,
Bakhtawarremainedanavidreader, continuouslyseekingnewknowledge. Moreover,sheacknowledgedthather studentsservedasawellspringof inspiration,constantlyteachingher valuablelessons.
NavigatingthePathofaFirstgenerationEntrepreneur
Intherealmofentrepreneurship, facingnumerouschallengesisan inherentpartofthejourneyfor BakhtawarKrishnan,
afirst-generationentrepreneur Withno guidingfigureorestablishedpathto follow,sheconfrontsthehurdleswith resilienceanddetermination. Entrepreneurship,sherealizes,isan ongoingexpeditionwherestumbling andencounteringunexpectedobstacles arecommonplace.However,each setbackbecomesanopportunityfor growthandlearning,assheconstantly seekstoupgradeherknowledge throughvariouscoursesand experiences.
Overtime,Bakhtawarhasdevelopeda heightenedsenseofanticipation, enablinghertonavigateuncharted territorymoreeffectively.Thelessons learnedfrompastexperienceshave empoweredhertoforeseeandprepare forpotentialhurdlesthatpreviously caughtheroffguard.Thisrealization hasbecomethecornerstoneofher
learningjourney—acontinuous processofgrowthandadaptation.
Inthisdynamicrealmof entrepreneurship,Bakhtawarembraces theunderstandingthatsuccessisnota staticdestinationbutrathera continuouspursuit.Itnecessitates relentlesseffort,ongoingdevelopment, andstayingaheadofthegame.Withan unwaveringcommitmenttoselfimprovementandbeingattheforefront ofherfield,Bakhtawarstrivestonot onlybesuccessfulbutalsotoleadher teamtonewheights.
TheTriadofSuccess
Intherealmofentrepreneurship, BakhtawarKrishnanrecognizesthat threefundamentalingredientsformthe bedrockofherjourney:patience, consistency,anddiscipline.Patience, sheunderstands,iscrucialforallowing thebusinesstogrowsteadilyover time.Overnightsuccessisararity,and thussheembracesthevirtueof patience,knowingthatitisessential forlong-termsustainablegrowth.
Recently, I read a book which said: ‘If you have an idea – perform it, If you have a goal – get it, achieve it, If you have knowledge - give it out, Love, share and distribute - do not keep it inside you’ and I truly believe this.
Women's Leadership in Educational Policy and Advocacy
Inthefieldofeducationalpolicyand
advocacy,thesignificanceofwomen's leadershipcannotbeoverstated.Women haveincreasinglytakencenterstageinshaping policies,drivingreforms,andadvocatingfor equitableeducationalopportunities.Their leadershipinthisdomainnotonlyfosters inclusivityanddiversitybutalsobringsforth uniqueperspectivesandapproachesthatare essentialforaddressingcomplexeducational challenges.
TheTerrainofWomen'sLeadershipin EducationalPolicy
Women'sparticipationineducationalpolicymakinghasseennotableadvancementsover theyears.Whilewomenconstituteasignificant portionoftheeducationworkforce,including teachersandadministrators,their representationinhigherleadershiproles remainsdisproportionallylow.Despitethis, womenleadershavebeeninstrumentalin drivingcrucialreformsandinitiativesaimedat improvingeducationaloutcomesforall.
ShapingPolicieswithaGenderLens
Oneofthekeycontributionsofwomen leadersineducationalpolicyistheir abilitytoadvocateforpoliciesthat prioritizegenderequalityandaddress theuniqueneedsofwomenandgirls. Frompromotinginclusivecurriculum frameworkstoadvocatingformeasures tocombatgender-basedviolencein schools,womenleadersbringa nuancedunderstandingofthe intersectionalityofgender,race,and socio-economicfactorstopolicy discussions.
ChampioningEquityandInclusion
Womenleadersineducationalpolicy andadvocacyareattheforefrontof effortstopromoteequityandinclusion ineducation.Theyworktirelesslyto dismantlesystemicbarriersthathinder accesstoqualityeducationfor marginalizedcommunities,including low-incomefamilies,minoritygroups, andchildrenwithdisabilities.Through theiradvocacyefforts,womenleaders strivetocreateinclusivelearning environmentswhereeverystudenthas theopportunitytothrive.
AmplifyingVoicesthroughAdvocacy
Womenleadersplayacrucialrolein amplifyingthevoicesofmarginalized communitiesineducationalpolicy debates.Byleveragingtheirpositions ofinfluenceandadvocatingfor inclusivedecision-makingprocesses, theyensurethattheperspectivesof diversestakeholders,including students,parents,andcommunity members,areheardandconsidered. Womenleadersalsoserveasmentors andallies,empoweringthenext generationofleaderstoadvocatefor changeanddriveprogressin education.
ChallengesandBarriers
Despitetheirsignificantcontributions, womenleadersineducationalpolicy
andadvocacycontinuetoface numerouschallengesandbarriers. Persistentgenderbiasesand stereotypesoftenunderminetheir credibilityandauthority,makingit difficultforthemtoasserttheir influenceinmale-dominated environments.Additionally,women leadersmayencounterobstaclessuch aslimitedaccesstoresources,lackof mentorshipopportunities,andworklifebalanceissues,whichcanhinder theirprofessionaladvancement.
EmpoweringWomen'sVoices
Toovercomethesechallengesand empowerwomen'svoicesin educationalpolicyandadvocacy, concertedeffortsareneededat individual,institutional,andsystemic levels.Organizationsandinstitutions mustprioritizegenderdiversityand inclusioninleadershiproles, implementpoliciesthatsupportworklifebalance,andprovidementorship andprofessionaldevelopment opportunitiesforwomenleaders. Moreover,fosteringacultureof respect,collaboration,andmutual supportcancreateanenabling environmentwherewomenfeel empoweredtoleadandadvocatefor change.
StrengtheningCollaborative Partnerships
Anothercrucialaspectofempowering women'sleadershipineducational policyandadvocacyisfostering collaborativepartnershipsacross sectors.Womenleaderscanleverage theirnetworksandforgeallianceswith governmentagencies,non-profit organizations,academicinstitutions, andgrassrootsmovementstoamplify theirimpactanddrivesystemic change.Byworkingtogether,women leaderscanpoolresources,sharebest practices,andadvocateforcollective actiononkeyeducationalissues,
suchasaccesstoqualityeducation, teachertraining,andcurriculum reform.
InvestinginLeadership Development
Investinginleadershipdevelopment programstailoredspecificallyfor womenineducationalpolicyand advocacyisessentialfornurturing talentandbuildingapipelineoffuture leaders.Theseprogramscanprovide womenleaderswiththeskills, knowledge,andconfidenceneededto navigatecomplexpolicyenvironments, buildstrategicpartnerships,and overcomebarrierstoadvancement.By investinginwomen'sleadership development,stakeholderscanunlock thefullpotentialofwomenleadersand empowerthemtodrivemeaningful changeineducation.
Conclusion
Women'sleadershipineducational policyandadvocacyisessentialfor drivingtransformativechangeand buildingamoreequitableandinclusive educationsystem.Byleveragingtheir expertise,experiences,and perspectives,womenleadershavethe powertoshapepolicies,influence decision-makingprocesses,and championtherightsofalllearners. Empoweringwomen'svoicesinthis domainisnotonlyamatterofsocial justicebutalsoastrategicimperative forachievingsustainabledevelopment andrealizingthepromiseofquality educationforall.Aswecontinueto navigatethecomplexchallengesfacing educationglobally,letusrecognizeand celebratetheinvaluablecontributions ofwomenleadersinshapingthefuture oflearningandadvancingthecauseof educationalequityandsocialjustice.
I believe that teachers hold the key to shaping the na on’s most valued asset- human resource.
A Celebrated Pedagogue, Passionate about Learning and Nurturing Students
Dr S nehal Pinto
Dr Snehal Pinto Director, Ryan Interna onal Group of Ins tu ons
Dedication,creativity, consistency,punctuality, empathy-thesearethe hallmarksoftheleadingeducational influencers.Theyarefaceliftingthe educationalsectorwithexpertiseand innovativeendeavors.These educationalinfluencersensurethat everystudentgrowsholistically They motivateyoungmindstoevolveinto theircompleteselfandbecomethe leadersoftomorrow.
Theseeducationalinfluencersarethe beaconsofacademicgrowth, educationalinnovation,andcareer development.Prominentnamessuchas DrSnehalPintoworktirelesslyto ensurethateverychildreceives excellenteducationalandcareer developmentopportunities.
Alifelonglearnerandapassionate educator,DrSnehalcurrentlyservesas DirectorattheRyanInternational GroupofInstitutions–oneofthe largestprivatelyownedchainsofK-12 institutionsinIndia. Shestartedasa primaryschoolteacher,movedupthe careerladdertotakeonvarious leadershiproles.
Today,DrSnehalisblessedtohavea richexperienceinvariouscapacities includingteachingandleadership. Whileservingtheorganization,she completedherDoctorateinEducation fromNovaSoutheasternUniversity, USA.
"It has been my privilege to be the President of the Association of Schools for the Indian Schools Certificate (ASISC)," sharesDrSnehal.Shehas alsobeenamemberoftheExecutive GeneralBodyoftheCouncilforthe IndianSchoolCertificateExaminations (CISCE).Moreover,DrSnehalhas servedasamemberoftheAdvisory CommitteeintheSouthAsia InternationalBaccalaureateSchools Association(SAIBSA).
DrSnehalbelievesthatteachershold thekeytoshapingthenation’smost valuedasset-HumanResource. Therefore,herfocused areashavebeen professional
development,assessments,and leadership.Shepossessesrich experienceacrossvariousstateand nationalboardssuchasCentralBoard ofSecondaryEducation(CBSE), IndianCertificateofSecondary Education(ICSE/ISC),and InternationalBaccalaureate(IB)and InternationalGeneralCertificateof SecondaryEducation(IGCSE)forthe RyanGlobalSchools.DrSnehalhas beeninstrumentalforleveraging strengthsacrossallofthesefor improvedschoolperformanceatRyan Group.
Our focus is to provide an immersive learning experience for our children.
"I am grateful to Lord Jesus Christ for the wonderful team he has blessed us with. We have worked together with consistency and today the schools under Ryan Group are among the Top International Schools in India for several years by various schools surveys such as the Times School, Brain feed and Education World," mentionsDrSnehal.
Tomaximizetheschools’efficiency, shehasbeenconsistentinbringing strongprocessorientationby leveragingvariousmethodologies includingthoseofIB(International Baccalaureate)andNABET(National AccreditationBoardforEducationand Training). "With a clear focus on st nurturing 21 -century skills, the Ryan Group is driving capacity building and scaling innovations with various highimpact student-centric initiatives across the country," sheadds.
ADecoratedEducator
Owingtoherconstanteffortsand dedicationtowardseducation,Dr Snehalhasbeenawardedwithmany accolades.Shewonthe'Prof.Indira Parikh50WomeninEducation LeadersAward2022,'whichwas conferredtoherbytheWorld EducationCongress.
Dr.Snehalwasconferredthe'Most AdmiredGlobalIndians2021'title byPassionVista.
Furthermore,shereceivedtheATL TeachersofChangeAwardinthestate ofMaharashtraforherexemplary leadershiptogalvanizeinnovationin education.
Shesays, "It is humbling to be acknowledged worldwide as a visionary thought leader today for our significant contribution in enhancing the teaching-learning
process to develop effective student engagement and for our transformational leadership in education."
ALifelongLearner
DrSnehalisalife-longlearnerbecause shepossessesthewillingnesstolearn. Itdrovehertocompleteherdoctoral studiesinEducation.Secondly,her passionforlearningandbuilding peopleupcontinuestoenableherto developandleadherteamstocarryout differentendeavorsandinitiatives acrossalltheschoolsPANIndia.
AboutRyanGroupofInstitutions
RyanGroupofInstitutionswas establishedin1976bythevisionary educationistDrA.F.Pinto,Chairman withthestrategicvisiontospread qualityeducationacrossIndia.The GroupisconsideredoneofIndia’s largestprivatelyownedgroupsof schoolsofferingK-12curriculum throughstate,nationaland internationalboards.TheGrouphas flourishingschoolsacross18statesand 40citiesinthecountry Today,Ryan Groupiswellrecognizedforits noteworthycontributiontoeducation.
EnduringAdversitiesIndustriously
DrSnehalhasbeenassociatedwiththe educationsectorforoverthelastfour decades.Shebelievesthatjustlikeall sectorsoftheeconomy,educationalso hasitschallenges. "The challenges we faced have only helped us as a group to align our efforts to our vision and stay grounded and rooted in values and our faith and have strengthened me to emerge as a confident leader in this segment," sharesDrSnehal.
Shealsoaddsthatin-spiteofvarious challenges,RyanGrouphas successfullyimpartedquality educationintownssuchas ShajahanpurinU.P,Jalnain
I am always driven to educate and develop students.
Maharashtra,BolpurinKolkata,and Durg-DhamtariinChattisgarhyielding encouragingresults.
AMotivatedEducator
DrSnehalstatesthatithasbeenvery helpfultoengagewithpeopleacross thecapacitiestheyservethe organizationinandbeyond.Shefeels thatitisablessingtobesurrounded withalearningcommunityseekingto contributetheirbest.Thishasalways motivatedhertokeeplearninginorder toprovidethebestlearning opportunitiesforthestudentsandhelp themsucceedintheirlife.
Consideringthepresentsituation,Dr Snehalbelievesthattheneedofthe houristoprovidethechildrenwith experientiallearningopportunities. Accordingtoher,practicallearning st withcultivationof21 -centuryskillsof criticalthinking,creativity, collaboration,communication, technologyliteracy,leadership,and socialskillsareessentialaspectsfor theholisticgrowthofthestudents.
ShebelievestheNewEducationPolicy introducedlastyearoutlinesa comprehensiveoverhauloftheway institutionsoperateinthecountry
"As part of our holistic approach to learning and educational excellence, many of Ryan Group's practices already align with the new policy," Dr Snehalexpresses.
Underherleadership,RyanGroup remainscommittedtofostering industry–academiapartnershipsto st instill21 -centuryskillsandtoprovide newopportunitiesforstudentsto ‘learn by doing’ andupskill,reskill, andreinventthemselves.Thisenables thestudentstokeepupwithaneverchangingworld,andemergenotonly asindustry-readyemployableyouth butalsochoosetheirvocationsand callingtobeentrepreneurs.Thiswill beanongoingprocessthatwillrequire bothpublicandprivatesector collaboration.
EnsuringMaximumStudent Engagement
DrSnehalworkswithutmost dedicationtoensurethatRyanGroup ofSchoolsisfocusedonbuilding conceptualunderstandingamong children.Shemakessurethatthe teachersarecontinuouslyprovided withprofessionaltraining.Sheseesto itthattheteachersarementoredtoplan anddeliveractivitybasedsessionsfor eachconcept.
"Teachers are encouraged to plan a week ahead for their sessions. This helps them to deliver an effective session that meets the learning objective for the session," expresses DrSnehal. "Collaborative learning activities like role play, debates and discussions, learning by doing/ experiential learning, field trips, project work, case studies, etc. are planned by the teachers to create an active and involved set of students who enjoy the process of learning," she furtherstates.
DrSnehalensuresthatchildrenare placedinagroupforvariousactivities sothattheydevelopteamworkand communicationskillsrequiredtobe leaders.Herteamalsoidentifiestheir leadershipskillsandinterestsand providestherightguidanceand supporttoenhancethemintheright direction.DrSnehalsharesthatat Ryan,studentscanexploretheir abilitiesthroughvariousevents pioneeredatschool,national,and internationallevelssuchasIndian ModelUnitedNations,World Scholar’sCup,InternationalChildren's Festival,andvariousInternational culturalexchangeprogramstovarious centresbasedinUK,US,Australia, Germany,Switzerland,andItaly
EmphasisonChoosingtheRight Career
InDrSnehal'seyes,choosingaright careerisoneofthemajoraspectsina student’slife.Therearestudentswho donothaveclarityaboutwhatthey wanttodoinfutureandwhichcareer paththeyshouldtake.Shebelievesthat whilechoosingacareer,astudent shouldprimarilyunderstandhis/her areaofinterest. Selfawarenessisvery importantasithelpsinidentifying one’sinterests,skills,andtalents.Dr Snehalfurtheropinesthatseeking appropriateguidancefromtheteachers andschoolcareercounselorsis beneficialwhenachildisconfused aboutwhattochoosepostcollegeand universitystudies.
WithconstantsupportfromDrSnehal, RyanGroupprovidesopportunitiesto thestudentstodiscovertheirtalents, nurturethem,andaspiretoachieve theirdesiredgoalinliferightfrom theirearlyyears.Theinstituteprovides aplethoraofexcellentopportunities throughsports,academics,media studies,environmentalawareness programmes,theatre,art,leadership
andentrepreneurshipprogrammes,and soon.Itoffersinternationalexchange programmeswithcountriesacrossthe globe,collaborationwithforeign universities,andentitiessuchas PennHubandtheCollegeBoard.Ryan Groupprovidesthestudentswitha platformwhichtheycanfurtheruseto buildonanddeveloptheirinterestsand aspirationsastheybegintheircollege anduniversitylife.
WordsofAdvicefortheLeadersof Tomorrow
IntheopinionofDrSnehal,students arethecoreoftheentireteaching–learningprocess.Shebelievesthatthey aretheambassadorsandmotivatorsfor theirparentsandteacherstomakeevery efforttoprovidethemwiththebest learningenvironment.
Sheurgesstudents, "Remember that you st are living in the 21 -century world, where rapid changes are taking place in every field due to the emergence of technology."
"There are several emerging career options, and at the same time the nature
Along with construc ng knowledge and fostering relevant a tudes and life skills, we also seek to develop social and spiritual values.
of the 'future jobs' remains unknown. Therefore, make the best of every opportunity provided to you," sheadds.
DrSnehalencouragesstudentstoequip themselveswithlifeskillsinorderto dealwithchallengesandcreate opportunities.Shebelievesthatthereis tremendousscopeforstudentstolearn independently,exploretheirabilities st fortimemanagement,develop21centuryskills,andtakeownershipof theirlearningjourney.DrSnehal suggeststhatstudentsshouldanchor themselvestovaluesandbe responsiblecitizensandlifelong learners.Thiswillhelpincontributing tothebettermentofsocietyatlarge.
TakingSteadyStepsTowardsthe Future
DrSnehalstatesthatRyanGroup believesinexcellenceineducation.As anationwidegroup,theinstitute's focusisoninnovation,leveraging technologicaltools,andimplementing variousstrategiestointegratethe appstoensurethatchildrenare engagedinanimmersivelearning experience.
AccordingtoDrSnehal,Ryan Grouphasmanygoodpracticesthat areinlinewiththeNEP,whichis somethingtheinstitutewillcontinue tobuildonfurtherinthecoming years. "We will continue with our
efforts to make quality education available and accessible to all," states DrSnehal.
Underherguidance,theinstitutehas collaboratedwithdifferententitiesto ensurethatevenpostK-12,the childrengetanopportunitytotransit smoothlyintohighereducationto pursuetheirinterests,developtheir talents,andhaveavocation.She believesthattheeffortsofRyanGroup arefocusedonprovidingvocational opportunitiesineducationandskillbasededucation.
Contributions to International Women's Cultural
Exchange Education and
Womenarethekeydriversof
innovation,collaboration, andprogressinthefieldof education.Theircontributionsspana widerangeofareas,fromacademic researchandcurriculumdevelopment tostudentexchangeprogramsand cross-culturaldialogue.
This article explores the invaluable role of women in advancing international education and fostering cultural exchange on a global scale, highlighting their diverse perspectives, achievements, and the transformative impact of their work.
EmpoweringGlobalCitizens
ThroughEducation
Womenininternationaleducationplay apivotalroleinshapingthemindsand
perspectivesoffuturegenerationsof globalcitizens.Throughtheirworkas educators,researchers,and administrators,theyfacilitatecrossculturallearningexperiencesthat promoteunderstanding,empathy,and tolerance.Byintegratingglobal perspectivesintocurricula,designing studyabroadprograms,andfostering interculturaldialogue,women educatorsempowerstudentstobecome engagedandresponsiblemembersofa diverseandinterconnectedworld.
BridgingCulturesThrough DiplomacyandAdvocacy
Womenleadersininternational educationserveasbridge-buildersand ambassadorsforculturalexchangeand mutualunderstanding.Throughtheir diplomaticeffortsand
advocacyinitiatives,theypromote educationalcollaboration,facilitate academicpartnerships,andadvocate forpoliciesthatsupport internationalizationandmobility
AdvancingResearchandInnovation
Womenscholarsandresearchersin internationaleducationdrive innovationandadvanceknowledgein criticalareassuchaslanguage acquisition,intercultural communication,andglobalcitizenship education.Theirresearchcontributesto evidence-basedpracticesthatinform educationalpolicy,program development,andteaching methodologies.
EmpoweringMarginalized Communities
Womenleadersininternational educationareattheforefrontofefforts toempowermarginalizedcommunities andpromoteeducationalaccessand equity.Throughinitiativessuchas community-basededucationprograms, scholarshipsfordisadvantaged students,andadvocacyforgender equalityineducation,theystriveto ensurethatallindividualshavethe opportunitytofulfilltheirpotentialand participatefullyintheglobal community.
ChallengesandOpportunities
Despitetheirsignificantcontributions, womenininternationaleducationface numerouschallenges,includinggender bias,limitedaccesstoleadershiproles, andwork-lifebalanceissues.However, thesechallengesalsopresent opportunitiesforcollectiveactionand advocacytopromotegenderequality andempowerwomenleaders.By fosteringmentorship,networking,and professionaldevelopmentopportunities forwomeninthefield,stakeholders cancultivateadiverseandinclusive leadershippipelinethatreflectsthe globalcommunityitserves.
LeveragingTechnologyforGlobal Impact
Inthedigitalage,womenin internationaleducationareharnessing thepoweroftechnologytoexpand accesstolearningopportunitiesand facilitatecross-culturalexchangeona globalscale.Fromonlinecoursesand virtualexchangeprogramstodigital resourcesandeducationalplatforms, womeneducatorsandinnovatorsare leveragingtechnologytoovercome geographicalbarriersandconnect studentsandlearnersfromdiverse backgrounds.Byembracingdigital toolsandplatforms,womenin internationaleducationare democratizingaccesstoeducation, fosteringcollaboration,andpromoting culturalexchangeininnovativeand transformativeways.
PromotingDiversity,Equity,and Inclusion
Womenleadersininternational educationarechampionsofdiversity, equity,andinclusion,advocatingfor policiesandpracticesthatpromote accesstoeducationforall,regardless ofgender,race,ethnicity,orsocioeconomicstatus.Throughtheir leadership,theyworktodismantle systemicbarriersandcreateinclusive learningenvironmentswhereevery individualfeelsvalued,respected,and empoweredtosucceed.Bypromoting diversityineducationalcurricula, recruitingdiversefacultyandstaff,and implementinginclusivepedagogies, womenleadersstrivetocreate educationalspacesthatreflectthe richnessanddiversityoftheglobal community.
NurturingFutureLeaders
Womenininternationaleducationare committedtonurturingthenext generationofleadersandchangemakers,providingmentorship, guidance,andsupporttoaspiring educators,researchers,andadvocates.
Throughmentorshipprograms, leadershipdevelopmentinitiatives,and networkingopportunities,women leadersinthefieldempoweremerging leaderstonavigatethecomplexitiesof theglobaleducationlandscapeand makemeaningfulcontributionstothe field.Bysharingtheirknowledge, experiences,andinsights,women mentorsinspireandempowerthenext generationofwomenleaderstodrive positivechangeandcreateamore inclusiveandequitablefuturefor internationaleducation.
CollaboratingforImpact
Collaborationisattheheartof women'scontributionstointernational educationandculturalexchange. Womeneducators,researchers,and advocatescollaborateacross disciplines,sectors,andbordersto addresscomplexchallenges,sharebest practices,andamplifytheirimpact. Throughcollaborativeinitiativessuch asinternationalresearchpartnerships, cross-culturalexchangeprograms,and globaladvocacynetworks,women leadersinthefieldfostercollaboration andcooperationthattranscends geographicalandculturalboundaries.
Conclusion
Inconclusion,women'scontributions tointernationaleducationandcultural exchangeareessentialforbuilding bridgesofunderstanding,fostering collaboration,andadvancinghuman progress.Throughtheirleadership, scholarship,andadvocacy,women playacentralroleinshapingthefuture ofeducationandpromotingglobal citizenship.Aswecontinuetonavigate thecomplexitiesofaninterconnected world,letusrecognizeandcelebrate theinvaluablecontributionsofwomen ininternationaleducation,andwork togethertocreateamoreinclusive, equitable,andpeacefulfutureforall.
Ms.Shalini
M e h r o t r a
Turning Tides in Education Pedagogy
I aim to make the learners of today responsible, meaningful, and sensitive human beings who can contribute towards the upliftment of society.
IntheIndianeducationalsystem, wheneverwomenhavestepped intoitstopography,theyhave enhancedandupgradeditsecosystem. Historyistheproofofthis,andover theyears,Indiahaswitnessedsomeof thefinestwomeneducatorsthat changedthefaceofeducationfor generationstocome.
Aneducator'sjobisnotjusttoeducate buttoensuretheconsistentevolution ofthelearners,evolutionofbody,mind andsoul.However,therehasalways beenalittlerestrictionwhenthetopic ofwomeneducationistickled.Ina worldwherenowequalityis consideredandpractisedasagender neutralprinciple,Indialacksbehindin educatingitsyoungergenerationof girls.
Afterspending27yearsinthe educationsectorMs.Shalini Mehrotra,PrincipalatVidyaDevi JindalSchool,hasembraced
educationforgirlsinallitsentiretyand hasdecidedtocoverupthedeficitin theliteracyratioofboysandgirlsin India.
Ms. Shalini Mehrotra
Principal, Vidya Devi Jindal School
Acknowledgingherefforts, The Knowledge Review Magazinehas recognisedhercontributiontothe educationsectorandspecifically upliftingeducationstandardsfor womeninIndia.Hereisadetailed overviewofherjourneyasan influentialandinnovativeeducator.
ALeaderDrivenbySternIntent
AfterherMaster'sdegreeinPhysics withaspecialisationinElectronicsand aMaster'sineducationwithamajorin CurriculumDevelopmentandAdvance TechniquesofInstructions,Ms.Shalini Mehrotra'stwenty-seven-yearcareer beganasaPhysicsteacher.Shehas evolvedtobeaPrincipalofoneofthe country'sleadingall-girlsresidential schools.Ms.Shalinihailsoriginally fromKanpurbuthastravelledacross thecountryandspentmostofher professionallifeintheesteemed boardingschoolsofIndia.
Ms.Shalinihasassimiliated excellencesofherexperiencesof workingwithMayoCollegeGirls' School,Ajmer,AssamValleySchool, Assam,TheScindiaSchool,Gwalior, andVidyaDeviJindalSchool,Hisar. Shehadcarriedoutresponsibilities undervariedrolesofacademic administrationastheDeanof Academics,followedbythepositionof thefirstwomanVicePrincipalofa 117-year-oldallboys'heritageschool andcurrently,thePrincipalofallgirls' residentialschool,whichenjoysatop rankinginthecountry.
Whilesharingherpastexperiences,she says, "In my journey as an educator, I believe that all children deserve a quality education and must have access to equality and also equity in terms of learning opportunities, to bring out their best version into this world."
Whileshehasbeenacrusaderof holisticeducation,hervisionasa leaderistocreateanenvironment wherethechildrencanachievehigh characterexcellenceandteachinglearningprocessfosteranimpacton theirmindandattitudetolivea fulfillinglifewithgritandresilience.
APreeminentSchoolanditsValue Construct
VidyaDeviJindalSchoolisanall-girls residentialschoolinHisar,Haryana. Theschoolhasbeenabeaconof impartingbothliteraryandcocurriculareducationtogirlseversince itsinceptionin1984.Itendeavoursto provideeducationthatformscharacter, strengthensthemind,expandsthe intellect,andenablesthestudentstobe self-reliant.Theschool'soutlined missionandvisionarelistedbelow:
Mission:
Ÿ Toprovideacaring,respectful,and securemulticulturalenvironment
Ÿ Toinspirestudentstoaccept challengesandenhancetheir performance.
Ÿ Toimbibeinthestudentsastrong senseofpersonalandsocial responsibility.
Ÿ Touseacomprehensive programmeofvariedinstructional strategiesandinnovative techniquesintechnologytowards academicandco-curricular excellence.
Ÿ Tosupportahighlycommittedand creativefaculty.
Ÿ Toencourageaparticipative communityofresponsiveand responsibleparents,alumni,and otherstakeholders.
Vision:
Tobecomealeadingresidentialschool knownforprovidingahappy environment,whichencourages fearlessintellectualcuriosity,learning throughenthusiasticself-discovery, andinspiresaloveforintegrity, compassion,andlife.
StrivingforExcellence
Academicexcellenceliesatthecoreof theVDJS'sendeavours.The curriculumiscalibratedthoughtfullyso thatstudentsmakesteadystrides,and finally,stretchtargetsaresetforthem withallpossibleinstitutionalsupport.
Theschoolprovidesitsstudentswitha conduciveenvironmentthatsupports experientiallearningthrough IntegratedLearningPedagogy The Air-ConditionedClassroomsare equippedwiththebesttechnology availableinawi-fi-enabledacademic blockandindividuallyheldMAC Books.Wefollowmostefficacious teaching-learningpracticeslike Mindspark,STEMeducationinour ATLLabs,FinancialLiteracy,Artificial Intelligence,MassMedia,Paper Recycling,DesignThinking,etc.
When you want something, the whole universe conspires in order for you to achieve it.
My earnest endeavour would be to provide all institutional support so that the multitalented and versatile girls chase their passions and dreams and shine both in mainstream and alternate fields.
VDJSencouragesaspiritofenquiry andfreethinkingthroughtheextensive educationalbuffetthatitprovides. Childrendisplayhighlevelsof researchskillsandareabletousethe informationtoolsforgleaningtheright informationforthedesiredobjective. Research-basedlearningallowsthem toexploreandexperienceandthereby holisticallyimbibelessons.
Theschoolhasreceivedmanyawards andrecognitionssinceitsinception. Someofthemarelistedbelow:
Ÿ VidyaDeviJindalSchool'is RankedNo.4inIndia,No.1in Haryana&RankedNo.1inHisar. Category-'India`sTop5Girls BoardingSchools'inasurvey conductedbyEducationToday.
Ÿ BestResidentialSchoolinHaryana inthe14thRashtriyaShikha GauravPuruskarceremony
Ÿ 9thrankinAllIndiaMHW rankings.Therankingrecognised theeffortscontinuouslyundertaken bytheschoolforachieving excellenceintransformingpeople andprioritisingthewell-beingof
thestudents,faculty,andstaff.
Ÿ BestSchooloftheYear2021for NorthIndiainthecategoryof QualityAcademics,Outstanding Administration,Women Empowerment&Leading InfrastructurebyNational EducationalExcellenceAwards.
Transformation,JustasItMatters
Whilespeakingabouthercontribution toeducationpedagogy,Ms.Shalini asserts, "As an educational leader and having the opportunity and privilege of being exposed to the best existing practices in the field of educational pedagogy, I am cognizant of my responsibility towards society. I aim to make the learners of today responsible, and conscious citizens of Mother Earth who can contribute towards the upliftment of the society and human race at large by addressing the educational needs of the underprivileged." AtVidyaDeviJindal School,shehasdesignedtheservice structureoftheschool,intendingto provideeducationalfacilitiestothe disadvantagedsectionsofsociety The studentsintheschoolareinvolvedin providingqualityteachingfacilitiesto thestudentsofunderprivileged sections.
Theschoolhasalsodonestellarwork inupgradingtheinfrastructureofafew villageschoolswithinthevicinityof VDJS.Theconstructionoftoilets, multipurposehall,basketballcourt, laboratory,kitchenfacility,and recreationalareashasmadethese otherwisedrabschoolslivelierand morewelcomingandchildfriendly, leadingtobettereducationaloutcomes. VDJSispersistentlycarryingout its commitmentofdiversifyingand expandingitscommunityinvolvement.
TakingtheLegacyForward
Whilespeakingaboutthefuture outlookoftheschool,Ms.Shalini
quotes,PauloCoehlo, "When you want something, the whole universe conspires in order for you to achieve it."
Shesays, "These quoted lines from The Alchemist have come to define my life. As an educationist, I had always wanted to be a part of organisations that look beyond academics and offer the powerful alliance of 'learning to do' with 'learning to be'." Soitwas providentthatonjoiningastheheadof theinstitution,sherealisedthather educationalphilosophyandbelief systemwerealignedwiththemission
andvisionofVDJS.Theschoolhas alreadyhadaverysoundunderpinning whichhashelpeditachievesomuch. Accordingtoher,VDJSwillcontinue toensuretherightecosystemto facilitatethespiritoffearlessenquiry
"I want that each girl who passes out of the portals of the school must be armed with the Jindal X factor. My earnest endeavour would be to provide all institutional support so that the multitalented and versatile girls chase their passions and dreams and shine both in mainstream and alternate fields," Ms.ShaliniMehrotraadds.
and Accreditations Awards
Ÿ Recipient of the 100 Highly Effective Principals awards 2017 from AKS Education Awards.
Ÿ SOF Best Zonal Principal Award for 2018-19.
Ÿ 10 Most Inuential Leaders of 2018 conferred by The Knowledge Review Magazine.
Ÿ 50 Effective Principals of 2019 by Education Today Magazine.
Ÿ Future 50 Leader Shaping Success 2019.
Ÿ The Most Admirable Principal Award 2020 for excellence and leadership in education by the Golden Aim Awards.
Ÿ Indian Achievers Award for Excellence in Education 2020.
