The National Education Policy (NEP) emphasises the need for a child-centred approach in our classrooms. Its aim is to create a superior, holistic, and egalitarian society by providing adaptable and personalised education to children from their formative years. To this end, we must integrate 21st century skills into our education system, and teachers have a crucial role to play. They are facilitators, inculcating the 4Cs—Critical Thinking, Creativity, Communication, and Collaboration—in the bright, young minds of today.
Sujatha Ashwin, Post Graduate Teacher, Gitanjali Devashray School.
There is a budding genius in every child
So, with brainteasers and curiosity my classes are styled.
Critical thinking is a student need, to which I cater
For first and foremost… I am an Educator.
Teachers develop critical thinking in the classroom. This enables students to think independently and innovatively. It makes them better troubleshooters and decision-makers. Critical thinking also leads to academic success, as students learn to analyse and evaluate rather than relying solely on rote learning.
There is an artist in every child
So, with arts and crafts my classes are styled.
Creativity is a student need, to which I cater
For first and foremost… I am an Educator.
Art is no longer restricted to the art room or an extracurricular activity. Art integration is a new and dynamic pedagogical approach where visual and performing arts serve as powerful mediums. Teachers now use art to promote experiential learning of academic subjects, encouraging innovation and expression.
There is a smart communicator in every child
So, with storytelling and role-playing my classes are styled.
Communication is a student need, to which I cater
For first and foremost… I am an Educator.
Communication is arguably the most important 21st century skill. It is the bridge between confusion and clarity. Teachers nurture communication in young learners, empowering them to engage with others meaningfully. This fosters empathy, confidence, and prepares students to become productive global citizens.
There is a team-player in every child
So, with debates and group activities my classes are styled.
Collaboration is a student need, to which I cater
For first and foremost… I am an Educator.
Collaboration is a core value recognised by teachers, involving teamwork to achieve common goals. The modern world presents complex challenges that cannot be solved by individuals alone. Working in teams develops interpersonal skills, adaptability, and problem-solving abilities, equipping students for future challenges.
There is a future citizen in every child
So, with innovation and learning my classes are styled.
21st century skills are a student need, to which I cater
For today and always… I am an Educator.
Conclusion
By instilling the 4Cs—Critical Thinking, Creativity, Communication, and Collaboration—teachers prepare today’s children to thrive in an ever-changing, competitive, and interconnected world. They are not just educators but enablers of future-ready citizens.
