A Call for Innovation in Schools

I was the Distinguished Speaker at Brainfeed Exemplary Women Education Awards 2025: A Call for Innovation in Schools

I had the privilege of being a Distinguished Speaker at the Brainfeed Exemplary Women Education Awards 2025, where I addressed a gathering of visionary school principals and education leaders. My focus was on innovation in education and why school leaders must look beyond traditional curricula to prepare students for the challenges of the future.

Why Principals must stay updated on Global Forums ?

In a world shaped by rapid technological advancements, climate change, and evolving job markets, education must be future-ready. Forums like DAVOS (World Economic Forum), COP (Climate Change Conferences), and global education discussions provide critical insights into the skills, knowledge, and mindsets students need to succeed. As educators, we must ensure that schools do not function in isolation but rather align with global developments.

Key takeaways from my Speech

1. The Role of DAVOS: Preparing for the Future of Jobs

• The workforce is evolving, and many traditional jobs will no longer exist in the next 10-20 years.
• The World Economic Forum’s ‘Future of Jobs Report’ highlights the need for critical thinking, AI literacy, and entrepreneurial skills.
• Principals must actively read and analyze these reports to understand the future job market and guide students accordingly.
• Students must be equipped with skills that cannot be automated—creativity, leadership, emotional intelligence, and adaptability.
• Question to ask: Are schools preparing students for real-world careers or just exam success?

2. Lessons from COP: Sustainability & Green Careers

• Climate change will impact economies, industries, and job opportunities.
• Schools must introduce green education, teaching sustainability, renewable energy, and environmental consciousness.
• We are currently wasting 50% of our water. Are we educating students on conservation and sustainable practices?
• Future careers in carbon accounting, climate AI, and green finance are growing, and students need exposure to these fields.
• Question to ask: Are we integrating climate literacy and green technology into our education system?

The Role of a School Principal: A Balancing Act

• A principal must remove the 'principal coat' when they enter home and remove the 'family coat' when they enter school.
• They cannot just outsource technology-related responsibilities to the vice principal or academic coordinator. They need not code but must understand technology to stay respected and informed. If teachers are well-versed in technology and the principal is not, they will lose their credibility.
• Modern parents are outsourcing parenting to schools. They question their children's attitude, behavior, and discipline, not just academics and skills, because they believe they pay for it.
• Being a school principal is tougher than being a college principal. Every day brings new challenges, requiring constant adaptation and leadership.

CBSE & NEP: A Push for Innovation & Interdisciplinary Learning

• CBSE is emphasizing STEM education, establishing labs, and promoting experiential learning.
• The National Education Policy (NEP) focuses on interdisciplinary learning, ensuring students gain exposure to a combination of sciences, arts, and humanities.
• Regardless of whether a student chooses a career in commerce, engineering, medicine, or psychology, they should experience STEM learning integrated with arts and humanities.
• Countries like the U.S., Germany, Finland, and Singapore are leading in school innovation initiatives.
• As school principals, it is essential to prepare students for jobs 10 years from now, not just for current job markets.
• Experiential learning must be embedded into the curriculum to help students develop problem-solving skills and adaptability.

A Call to Action for School Leaders

To make our schools globally competitive, principals must:

1. Stay updated on global discussions like DAVOS, COP, and education reforms.
2. Read the World Economic Forum’s Future of Jobs Report and align school initiatives accordingly.
3. Integrate future skills into the curriculum, beyond traditional textbooks.
4. Adopt AI, sustainability, and entrepreneurship education.
5. Teach students about climate resilience and sustainability to prepare them for global challenges.
6. Leverage government initiatives and funding to innovate.

Final Thoughts

Education is not just about teaching the past, it’s about preparing for the future. As school leaders, we must ensure that our students don’t just pass exams but thrive in an ever-changing world. Let’s commit to bringing global perspectives into our schools and equipping students with the skills they need to lead, innovate, and make a difference.

It was truly an honor to share this message at Brainfeed Exemplary Women Education Awards 2025, and I look forward to seeing principals across India take bold steps toward innovation and transformation.

Wishing All a Happy International Women’s Day!

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