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Inauguration of Sakura – The Indo-Japanese Nursery Division at JG International School Marks a New Era in Global Education

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In a landmark collaboration, JG International School (JGIS) in Ahmedabad and Keimei Gakuin School (KG) from Kobe, Japan, proudly inaugurated Sakura, the first-of-its-kind Indo-Japanese Nursery division. This historic event at JGIS symbolised a unique partnership between two esteemed educational institutions, setting a new benchmark in early childhood education. Keimei Gakuin, a 100-year-old institution from Kobe, Japan, is renowned for its innovative approach to education, rooted in Japanese philosophy, culture, values, and excellence. The newly established Sakura division integrates pedagogical methods, educational approaches, and cultural aspects from India and Japan. This collaboration aims to nurture a generation of globally-minded students who possess curiosity, creativity, and empathy, empowering them to excel and lead in an interconnected world. The educational philosophy at Sakura aligns with core principles of education, focusing on the moral character of children and fundamental societal principles. Emphasis is placed on human dignity and the comprehensive assimilation of human knowledge. Education is viewed as a process of unfolding children’s innate abilities, nurturing the total personality of each child rather than developing isolated skills. The curriculum moves away from rote learning to a skill-based system, fostering real learners with complex and flexible learning frameworks. Dr. Kavita Sharma, Principal of JG International School, expressed her excitement about the collaboration, stating, “We are thrilled to embark on this remarkable journey with Keimei Gakuin. The Sakura division is a testament to our commitment to providing a holistic and globally enriched education. We believe this collaboration will inspire our students to become compassionate, culturally aware, and innovative leaders of tomorrow.” Mr. Ibusuki Chikara, Principal of Keimei Gakuin High School (KGHS), added, “This partnership marks a significant milestone in fostering educational excellence and cultural exchange between Japan and India. We are excited to bring the rich heritage and educational philosophies of both countries together, creating an environment where students can thrive and grow into global citizens.” The bicultural curriculum seamlessly blends ancient and contemporary Indian and Japanese educational frameworks, offering students a comprehensive understanding of both cultures. Students will master English and Japanese, fostering multilingual competence and cross-cultural communication skills. Equal emphasis is placed on Literacy, Numeracy, Program of Inquiry, and life skills education, including critical thinking, problem-solving, decision-making, communication, collaboration, and personal and social responsibility. Students will engage in traditional Japanese arts like calligraphy and martial arts, as well as Indian classical music, folk dances, and indigenous games. Regular student exchange programs and collaborative initiatives will foster mutual understanding among students from diverse backgrounds. Furthermore, expert educators from both countries will collaborate to enhance teaching methodologies and share best practices. The inauguration ceremony was a grand celebration featuring cultural performances, speeches by distinguished guests, and a tour of the new facilities. The event showcased the deepening ties between India and Japan, highlighting a shared vision of creating a world-class educational experience for young learners.

Anantha Krishnan B, CEO- Operations, Kalorex Group, Ahmedabad shared their approach at Kalorex Group of Institutions

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“The issue today is with the influx of AI and other technologies, identifying the skill set needed for a generation that will see the world 15 years later” said Anantha Krishnan B, CEO- Operations, Kalorex Group, Ahmedabad  Could you please highlight some of the initiatives or significant projects of the Kalorex Group of Institutions? We, as an organization, have always been forward-looking. As a policy, we think 15 years ahead of our times. The issue today is with the influx of AI and other technologies, identifying the skill set needed for a generation that will see the world 15 years later. We are working on those lines. The initiative of the AI clone and Avtar Maya that we have created of Dr. Shroff is a step towards that same vision to get the best of skill sets to the children. The progress is ongoing. What are the steps of Kalorex Group towards sustainable education? A couple of things I’d like to mention from today’s session. The morning session on NEP was fantastic. NEP, as a document, is very detailed, but the challenge is implementation. We, as a company, have created ways to implement NEP and converted those practices into a booklet, which we distributed today. This booklet is the outcome of dedicated efforts by about 70-80 teachers across the city who brainstormed and came up with easy implementation strategies adaptable by any school. By following these practices, we can expect a better future in the next 10 years. What motivates a teacher in your institution, and how do they cope with diverse students in a classroom? A teacher must always be forward-looking and a source of information and knowledge. In the age of AI, information is readily available on screens. If a teacher teaches something in the classroom, a child can immediately verify it on a computer. The challenge is teaching students how to compete with humanoids and AI. If you compete with a robot, like in a game of chess or badminton, the robot is likely to win. We need to teach students resilience, value systems, and adaptations required to compete with AI and robots. That’s what we are working on. What are your takeaways from today’s events, and how do such forums help society at large? On paper, many policies and government initiatives come up, especially in the last 10 years with the current government. Initiatives like the AAR card program and UPI payments are examples of good governance practices that schools need to implement for the next generation. Schools play a significant role in translating these policies into practice. For example, I come from a deep south village where the river used to have water up to my neck, but now the water level is down to 1 foot. We, as humans, are responsible for this and for restoring the river. Sessions like these teach us how to implement policies at a ground level, which is crucial for the future. Your efforts in organizing such sessions are commendable. I plan to attend your upcoming sessions in Indore and Vishakapatnam. Any final thoughts or messages? Thank you for having me at this event. It was a pleasure to be here and support your initiatives. Keep up the good work, and I look forward to your future sessions. Thank you.

Dr. Gangadhar G Hugar, Director – MBA Department, Laxmi Vidyapeeth Institute of Management, Valsad expressed the vision of S.N.V International School on NEP 2020

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“AICTE and UGC need to organize massive decentralized workshops at state, regional, and district levels to educate stakeholders on how to implement NEP policies effectively” said Dr. Gangadhar G Hugar, Director – MBA Department, Laxmi Vidyapeeth Institute of Management, Valsad at ArdorComm Media Group hosted ‘New Normal – Education Leadership Summit & Awards 2024’ on 10th February 2024 at Crowne Plaza Ahmedabad City Centre, Ahmedabad, Gujarat. How does the new education policy actually help students become market-ready? In my view, the National Education Policy, which has been drafted by AICTE and UGC, is still not visible in the education market. As per my knowledge, only about 10 to 15% of elite higher education institutions have been able to execute NEP policy amendments and move forward. The remaining 85 to 90% of institutions, especially those in rural and tier 2 areas, are still following traditional methods of education. In my opinion, to address this, AICTE and UGC need to organize massive decentralized workshops at state, regional, and district levels to educate stakeholders on how to implement NEP policies effectively. This will ensure that the benefits of these policies reach the broader education community. How do you think implementing AI and technology in the education system will impact it in the next 5 to 10 years? While I’m not a technical expert, artificial intelligence is making waves globally, including in education and corporate sectors. However, its impact on the education system in India may not be significant in the next five to ten years. India needs to be more open to accepting new technologies like AI. Currently, traditional methods still dominate, and there is hesitancy in embracing new developments. I believe that AI implementation may only impact around 5 to 10% of the education system in India within the next decade. How is your university taking the lead in terms of addressing the mental health of students on campus? At Laxmi Vidyapeeth Institute, we have a vision to become a private university in the coming years. We aim to offer diverse courses to cater to the needs of students in our geographical area. Additionally, we prioritize creating a supportive and friendly environment on campus to alleviate stress among students. We encourage two-way communication with students, listen to their ideas, and implement feasible suggestions to enhance their experience. Moreover, we organize extracurricular activities to provide students with opportunities for relaxation and exploration outside the classroom, fostering creativity and personal growth. ArdorComm Media is now celebrating its second year of existence. Any message or suggestions you wish to share with us? I would like to extend my gratitude to Mr. Chandan Ji for leading ArdorComm. This event has brought together education leaders, including vice-chancellors, directors, and philanthropists, to share valuable insights. I believe that together, we can work towards converting the ideas discussed here into practical implementations for the benefit of the education community. I encourage ArdorComm to continue its efforts in facilitating such discussions and initiatives.

Archit Bhatt, Managing Director, Tripada Group of Schools & President, AOPS, Ahmedabad expressed the roadmap of NEP 2020

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“We need to understand the previous national education policy of 1986 and the Indian knowledge system” said Archit Bhatt, Managing Director, Tripada Group of Schools & President, AOPS, Ahmedabad at ArdorComm Media Group hosted ‘New Normal – Education Leadership Summit & Awards 2024’ on 10th February 2024 at Crowne Plaza Ahmedabad City Centre, Ahmedabad, Gujarat. How can educators align with the government to uplift the Indian education system for the upcoming years? The government has indeed provided a new policy, and it’s the role of educators to work on implementing it. We need to understand the previous national education policy of 1986 and the Indian knowledge system. Educators should start by understanding the new policy, unlearn old methods, and adapt to the necessities of the new era. It will take about four to five years to implement the new policy comprehensively, both in rural and urban areas. It’s essential for educators to actively participate in policy discussions, provide feedback, and collaborate with government bodies to ensure effective implementation. By aligning with the government’s vision and actively contributing to policy development, educators can play a significant role in uplifting the Indian education system for the upcoming years. What steps do you suggest to improve school infrastructure for all educators? Infrastructure needs to be inclusive, accommodating learning and physically disabled students into mainstream schooling. From upgrading washrooms to staircases, every aspect needs to ensure equality. The divide between regular and special schools should be eliminated. Also, teacher training infrastructure needs upgrading to align with the new policy’s requirements. Providing accessible and modern facilities not only enhances the learning environment but also fosters inclusivity and equality among students. Additionally, investing in continuous professional development programs for teachers is crucial to ensure they are equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to create an inclusive and supportive learning environment for all students. How is the new education policy targeting the rote learning process and promoting experiential learning? The focus is on developing skills rather than rote or experiential learning. From grade five onwards, the emphasis is on skill development for better employability, considering the uncertain job market due to technological advancements like AI. The new education policy aims to shift the focus from memorization to understanding and application of concepts. By incorporating experiential learning methods such as project-based learning, internships, and hands-on activities, students can develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and collaboration skills essential for success in the modern world. The policy encourages educators to adopt innovative teaching methodologies that engage students actively in the learning process, fostering creativity, curiosity, and lifelong learning skills. What’s your overall takeaway from this event? More open forums and discussions are needed for societal progress. Media organizations should spread awareness, involving parents as major stakeholders. Bridging the gap between traditional entrance exams and the skills-focused new policy is crucial, and platforms like ArdorComm can facilitate this. The event provided valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities in education and emphasized the importance of collaboration and innovation in driving positive change. As educators, policymakers, and stakeholders, we must continue to work together to create a more inclusive, equitable, and future-ready education system for all learners. As we’re celebrating our second anniversary, any message you’d like to share with us? I believe open forums and panel discussions should involve parents more, as they’re crucial stakeholders. Platforms like yours play a significant role in bridging the gap between traditional and skill-based education.

Kamal Mangal, Founder, Anand Niketan Group of Schools, Ahmedabad expressed his thought on the roadmap of NEP 2020

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“We are focusing on using technology to make children familiar with it” said Kamal Mangal, Founder, Anand Niketan Group of Schools, Ahmedabad at ArdorComm Media Group hosted ‘New Normal – Education Leadership Summit & Awards 2024’ on 10th February 2024 at Crowne Plaza Ahmedabad City Centre, Ahmedabad, Gujarat. What are you doing in your school for the implementation of the NEP? Shed some light on it. Implementing NEP is a nice thing if done properly. For that, we are developing theme-based curriculum and focusing on providing practical vocational experiences to children after sixth grade. We are working extensively on this aspect, including AI, carpentry, and pottery. We are striving to provide proper education in schools. How important do you consider digital learning in proper education, and what role does teacher training play in your school? Well, although COVID has done a lot, there is still much work left. We are focusing on using technology to make children familiar with it. We are also working on how to match the technology with our products, so that the burden on teachers is reduced, management is streamlined, and children are motivated. What initiatives should schools take in skill development, and what initiatives have you taken in your schools? There’s still a lot of work left. We have done more work on soft skills than hard skills. Besides hard skills, we are now thinking of working on live skills and development in soft skills too. What do you learn from such events where so many academic educators come together, and what do you gain from ArdorComm Media’s events? Firstly, there is an exchange of views, and communication continues even after the event. Secondly, there is much opportunity for development in mindset. We haven’t changed our mindset yet, how the learning of new schools changes, we will work extensively on that. I extend my good wishes for ArdorComm Media Group.

Sheena Johnstone discussed various possibilities for Nursery Story in the Indian market.

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‘The standard of people speaking and the group discussions and everything has been really great” said Sheena Johnstone, Founder & CEO, Nursery Story at the ‘New Normal – Education Leadership Summit & Awards 2024’ on 10th February 2024 at Crowne Plaza Ahmedabad City Centre, Ahmedabad, Gujarat hosted by ArdorComm Media Group. How do you think nursery story will impact the lives of individuals when it comes to teaching their toddlers?  Nursery story is an amazing way for teachers to communicate exactly what’s happening during the day. Things like, what they’re eating, what they’re drinking, and if they are going to the toilet. Also, they can click pictures and share and instantly with parents. So, the parents don’t feel like they’re missing out on anything, and then the child can continue because they know what they have eaten, what to expect, and what are the things they have learned throughout the day with the child. How did this idea come to you—integrating AI and technology for the nursery kids and helping their parents to give more attention and more time to the kids?  So, I have three grandchildren, my youngest, when she was starting nursery, I was shocked by the little information that we got. We didn’t get any information on her, she had a great day, and that was it, no information about the details of the day like what she was doing, what she was playing with, and that’s when the idea came. There had to be a better way of communicating. When you can order a pizza on a tablet, why can’t you have your child’s information when your child is so important to you. Now you have that information during the day and I think for a parent it is vital.  Is Nursery Story planning any future projects or any more software like this?  The wonderful time that we had here, the people that we have met, our partners in India also we have Indian developers and a company here that developed our product, So they have suggested that there was a need in India for this kind of product, and we have been delighted at the uptake, the people that we have spoken to, and the excitement it has created. So India will be doing a lot more business.  Can we expect this to be worldwide or just for India?  I hope so, but India is a very big market, and we have just been delighted to do our best for the all Indian people here and to produce and continue producing a software that they need.  What was the overall takeaway from this event?  It’s just been amazing the standard of people speaking and the group discussions and everything has been really great. The quality of the speaker, the university lecturer, has also been quite amazing.