leadership

“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.

“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.

“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.