Empowering Education: Insights from Ms. Jyoti Arora on Holistic Development and Global Citizenship

by Subeditor1

In education today, holistic development and global citizenship play pivotal roles in preparing students for the challenges of tomorrow. In this interview, Ms. Jyoti Arora, Principal, Mount Abu Public School, Rohini, Delhi, offers insights into her school’s approach to these critical aspects of education, highlighting strategies to empower students in addressing real-world challenges and nurturing a sense of community responsibility.

According to you, what do holistic development and global citizenship, within education, mean? What is their significance?

Global Citizenship within education extends learning beyond boundaries and helps develop learners who recognize the interconnectedness of the world and engage actively in addressing global challenges. It perfectly aligns with the approach of holistic education, aiming for the all-round development of students by focusing on skills relevant in the present and adaptable to the future. The primary focus is on acquiring knowledge and cultivating necessary 21st-century skills such as critical thinking, collaboration, and communication, along with the development of cultural awareness, empathy, and responsibility towards people and the planet. Nurturing global citizens creates enhanced responsiveness to the interconnected world, motivating them to take action and make choices that resonate with sustainability, both locally and globally.

How does your school approach holistic development and global citizenship in education?

The school follows an integrated approach to holistic development and global citizenship in education. The school’s self-curated, award-winning Global Citizenship program is rooted in the pillars of UNSDGs – people, prosperity, planet, peace, and partnership. The curriculum emphasizes intercultural dialogues along with an appreciation of diversity and similarities across the globe, acknowledging that young learners are change-makers. The transformation, through our program, turns students into responsible global citizens who are equipped with the knowledge, skills, and values to make a positive impact on the world. The curriculum includes realistic and age-appropriate exercises that seamlessly assimilate into the existing curriculum structure.

How does your school empower students to tackle real-world challenges and foster community responsibility?

The school is an SDG school wherein the curriculum is integrated with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and the 2030 Agenda. Activities involve the community to contribute to the promotion of SDGs. The school provides opportunities to young learners through various hands-on activities, discussions, collaborations, and partnerships as they learn to tackle challenges. The engagements integrate interactive projects, workshops, and field trips, allowing students to explore subjects in-depth and apply their learning in real-world contexts. Through collaborative activities, learners share ideas, brainstorm challenges, causes and effects, and deliberate over potential solutions. Through various workshops and sessions, the students become well-rounded individuals and work towards a prosperous planet.

How can values like integrity and resilience be integrated into education effectively?

Schools can effectively integrate values like integrity and resilience into education by providing platforms to students, where they are prepared to confront situations requiring ethical decisions and face challenges confidently. The school’s curriculum should be integrated with reflective engagements that highlight the importance of integrity and resilience. The use of stories, case studies, and real-life examples engages students in critical thinking and demonstrates how resilience can help overcome obstacles. Community service projects should be provided to give practical experiences for students to apply values like integrity and empathy in real-world settings.

What strategies does your school employ to promote inclusivity and diversity, and can you provide examples? 

At Mount Abu Public School, our journey towards inclusivity is an endeavour that binds a sense of community and social duty. We understand that breaking down barriers for families with specially-abled members, students facing behavioural challenges, and those from underprivileged backgrounds requires a joint effort. Through programs like the Mount Abu Touch initiative, we extend a helping hand beyond our school gates, providing tailored support to those in need. Moreover, our active participation in projects like CaCa (Children Against Child Abuse) empowers our students to confront real-world issues, nurturing a strong sense of empathy and responsibility within our school family. We strive to create a warm, welcoming environment where every individual is embraced and supported on their unique journey. Inclusivity is a heartfelt commitment that touches the lives of every member of our school family. Through the Mount Abu Touch program, we extend a helping hand to those who need it most, ensuring that marginalized groups receive the support and resources they deserve to thrive. Our students are not just passive recipients; they’re active participants in creating positive change. Project CaCa empowers them to stand up against child abuse, using their voices and creativity to make a real difference in our community and beyond. The school also provides a special educator and a career counsellor for the support of students.

What are your thoughts on the future of education concerning holistic development and global citizenship?

The future of education concerning holistic development and global citizenship is crucial for preparing students for the uncertain world ahead. It’s vital to integrate socio-emotional skills, creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills into the curriculum. It’s crucial to understand that children have varied interests, and their multiple intelligences must be identified for customized learning to be provided according to their preferences. It is vital to recognize that learners should be groomed to become global citizens as they live in an increasingly interdependent and interconnected world. Making learning practical with hands-on experience and providing context for the application of real-world scenarios is important. Further, incorporating global awareness across subjects with a sense of responsibility to create a sustainable and peaceful planet should be included in education to make it relevant and meaningful.

You may also like

Brainfeed’s educator edition connects thousands of school leaders and educators providing them objective insights and a clear vision to see what’s now and next.

Latest Posts

Address

Plot No: 47, Rd Number 4A, adjacent to Bose Edifice, Golden Tulip Estate, Raghavendra Colony, Hyderabad, Telangana 500084

Phone Number

+917207015151, +918448737157

Email

© Brainfeed Magazine – All Right Reserved. 

Need Help?