In an era marked by constant change and challenges, instilling leadership qualities in young learners is not just an option but a necessity. Mrs. Ruchi Masih, Principal, Ryan International Academy, Bavdhan, Pune, shares her valuable insights into the importance of cultivating leadership skills in school-going children and the innovative strategies employed at her school to integrate leadership development into the educational framework.
Ryan International Academy, Bavdhan, Pune.
Why is it important to inculcate leadership qualities in school-going children and how does your school incorporate leadership development into its educational framework?
In today’s rapidly evolving world, it’s crucial to equip our children with the skills and mindset needed to navigate and thrive in unforeseen circumstances with responsibility. At Ryan International Academy in Bavdhan, Pune, we commit to preparing them for future challenges by fostering leadership qualities and instilling core values. Our curriculum is thoughtfully designed around the IKIGAI Centre of Learning, where we focus on holistic development. We provide abundant opportunities for students to lead and organize events and assemblies, from the initial concept to execution, ensuring they gain the confidence and experience to become effective leaders.
A cultural program at the school.
What specific programs or initiatives does your school offer to nurture leadership qualities among students?
At our school, we are deeply committed to transforming our educational environment into a hub for social change. We organize a series of events in collaboration with esteemed local organizations and leaders dedicated to fostering positive transformations in our community. Our students are at the forefront of these initiatives, embodying the role of change-makers.
In addition to traditional academics, we offer a range of club activities designed to enrich our student’s learning experiences and develop their skills in various areas. This holistic approach is supported by self-directed learning opportunities that are enhanced through experiential learning and STEM activities in our well-equipped Innovation Lab.
Furthermore, we offer high-end programs such as the Beyond Breaking News Programme and the Young Director’s Programme through Ryan TV and Media Studies. These unique platforms not only provide our students with practical experience in media production but also empower them to become leaders in their fields. Through these initiatives, we nurture the potential of each student, preparing them to make significant contributions to society.
Students at the Laboratory.
In your opinion, what are the essential leadership qualities that students should possess, and how does your school foster the development of these qualities?
At Ryan International Academy, we see each child as a unique and special individual. We focus on fostering key values such as integrity, empathy, and confidence. By entrusting them with responsibilities and providing opportunities to hone their decision-making and communication skills, we empower our students to grow and thrive.
We ensure that our students have access to a wide range of curricular and co-curricular activities both within the school environment and in broader community contexts. This exposure helps them develop a well-rounded personality and acquire practical skills. Our platform also encourages community engagement and learning, where students can contribute meaningfully and gain real-world experiences.
Furthermore, we offer a variety of learning programs that cater to the diverse interests and talents of our students. Most importantly, we believe in giving them the freedom to choose and decide what works best for them, ensuring that their educational journey is both fulfilling and aligned with their personal aspirations.
Student observing a ‘Chemical Experiment’.
What role does mentorship or guidance play in shaping students’ leadership capabilities at your school?
Mentorship and guidance are cornerstone practices at our school, essential for cultivating strong leadership skills among our students. By offering personalized support and showcasing real-life examples of leadership, our teachers act as vital role models. They provide tailored feedback that is critical for the holistic development of each child, helping to identify and nurture their unique strengths and areas for improvement.
We work closely with each student to help them recognize and fulfil their potential. Our mentorship program is designed to widen their perspectives and deepen their understanding, thereby enhancing their creativity and problem-solving skills. This personalized approach allows students to develop specific skills that are essential for their personal and academic growth.
Additionally, we offer opportunities that extend beyond the classroom to foster real-world experiences. These include goal setting and achievement strategies tailored to each student’s aspirations, along with encouraging regular reflection. This reflective practice is designed to maximize their learning outcomes and enhance their overall educational experience, ensuring they are well-prepared for future challenges.
Looking ahead, what future initiatives or strategies is your school considering to further enhance the leadership development opportunities for students?
At Ryan, our commitment extends beyond delivering quality education; we aim to cultivate individuals who embody a strong value system. Our approach integrates a philanthropic aspect into our activities, with the goal of nurturing our students to become torchbearers of positive change in society.
We actively involve our students in important discussions and include their perspectives in our safety committees, which operate with rigour within the school. This inclusive approach ensures that our students feel valued and heard, reinforcing their sense of responsibility and engagement.
Furthermore, our School Parliament plays a pivotal role in leading events and initiatives. Members of the parliament are not only active participants but also take on the role of caretakers for younger students, fostering a nurturing and supportive school environment. This leadership experience empowers them to make impactful decisions and builds a cohesive community where every student thrives.
