Chandigarh University confers awards upon 179 educationists during Indian School Awards

NEW DELHI: The Indian School Awards (ISA) were presented to 179 educationalists across India on 22 December at Chandigarh University, Gharuan (Mohali) to recognise and appreciate them for their contributions to the implementation of the National Education Policy, (NEP) 2020.

The Indian School Awards, which are held yearly, are a forum for schools, principals, teachers, and counsellors across the country to recognise and celebrate their efforts, accomplishments, and successes in the field of education.

This year, for annual Indian School Awards, 890 applications were submitted from 18 states and union territories, out of which 179 awards were selected across 61 categories.

Panel discussion on the role of edtech in revolutionising Indian schools and the impact of NEP were held during the awards ceremony. In addition, workshops on topics such as 'Innovations in Education: Navigating the digital age' and 'Empowering students for tomorrow's world' were also conducted.

Chief Guest, lieutenant general Kanwal Jeet Singh Dhillon, in his address, emphasised the significance of goal selection and maintenance, using Guru Gobind Singh Ji's words 'Nishchay kar apni jeet karo'.

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Role of teachers in guiding students

Highlighting the importance of educators in shaping the future of the students, Singh said, “As a teacher and mentor, it is your responsibility to clarify any confusion in the minds of students, helping them set their goals clearly, since you are the best guide for them, especially for those who do not have a background to receive good advice. Only teachers can provide guidance to the students across various fields, and education’s powerful influence can steer students away from wrong paths, such as involvement in terrorism.”

While addressing the audience, Vivek Atray, former IAS, motivational speaker emphasised that a teacher's capacity to lead is what's important, regardless of the subject matter that they teach. He said, “India’s tomorrow requires not just leaders but role models, who can be from any field and teachers have embraced the responsibility of nurturing the country’s future. Since children observe and emulate our actions more than our words, teachers must strive to be exceptional leaders and serve as role models for them.” He encouraged educators to strive to be role models for society regardless of the circumstances.

Leadership qualities for school

While speaking on school leadership, R S Bawa, pro chancellor of Chandigarh University, stated that the role of a school principal has more responsibility than that of a corporate or organisational leader. A school principal must have a vision for the school, capacity to lead colleagues, and mentor students.