'Education must go beyond marks'
India, Sept. 18 -- I see NEP 2020 as a shift from teaching for examinations to preparing children for life. Its emphasis on experiential learning, competency, skills, critical thinking and holistic development is highly relevant. For me, education must build academic competence alongside discipline, values, confidence, common sense and social responsibility. A policy succeeds only when its philosophy reaches the classroom.
At GGMSSS-20B, we are consciously translating NEP into practice. Special emphasis is given to skill education through beauty and wellness, fashion studies, textile design and information technology, supported by well-furnished laboratories and practical learning. This aligns with the Skill India vision of equipping students to become not merely job seekers but potential job creators. We also emphasise meaningful no-bag day activities, experiential learning, self-defence, sports and life skills. Every activity should have a clear purpose, meaningful participation and appropriate documentation.
Our priority must be to develop responsible human beings who are capable, disciplined, compassionate and resilient. Stronger learning outcomes and purposeful classroom practices must go together with civic sense, social responsibility and moral values. In an age of digital distraction, children must learn to question, analyse, apply and make responsible choices. Discipline, punctuality and regularity remain strong foundations of school life. I believe in motivation and positive reinforcement, but when required, a principal must also be firm, fair and respectful. My focus is continuous improvement-making our school better than it was yesterday.
Today's students are technologically confident, expressive and exposed to immense opportunities. However, excessive mobile use, social-media fantasies and the desire to project an artificial image can create unrealistic expectations. Patience, sustained attention, respect for boundaries and acceptance of failure need strengthening. We must help children distinguish reality from fantasy and understand that ambition cannot justify achieving a desired outcome at any cost. At the same time, every child matters; each child's unique potential must be recognised and nurtured.
As a girls' school, we want our students to see STEM as a field where they can explore, create and lead. Our emphasis on Information Technology and practical, skill-oriented learning develops scientific thinking, digital competence and problem-solving. Success is not merely a number; it is when a hesitant student gains the confidence to say, "I can do it." We want our girls to become creators and innovators, not merely users of technology.
Yes. As a government girls' school, we have a valuable opportunity to provide students exposure to every platform and a wide range of games. We encourage participation at school, cluster, state , national and higher levels, according to opportunity and potential. Sports develop discipline, punctuality, teamwork, perseverance, leadership and resilience. Success is not measured only by medals; increased participation, confidence and regular practice are equally meaningful. Every sporting opportunity is an opportunity to build character and confidence.
Ruchi Grover, Principal, GGMSSS-20B, cHANDIGARH...
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