In an era defined by rapid globalization and technological progress, the importance of Indian value-based education in shaping the future of India cannot be overstated, particularly, in light of the ‘Vision of Viksit Bharat@2047’. Serving as the bedrock for instilling ethical principles, fostering holistic development, and equipping students to navigate the complexities of contemporary society, Indian value-based education stands as a guiding light. In this enlightening interview, Mrs. Shanti Krishnamurthy, Director, Chinmaya International Residential School (CIRS) & Central Chinmaya Mission Trust (CCMT) Education Cell, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, offers insights on the crucial role of Indian value-based education in meeting the evolving demands of the 21st century. She sheds light on how CIRS seamlessly integrates Indian values into its curriculum, ensuring that students not only excel academically but also emerge as morally upright individuals deeply rooted in their cultural heritage. Let’s dive in!
Students take part in a Meditation Session.
Q. How does your school integrate Indian value-based education into its curriculum, and why is it important in today’s context? Can you provide specific aspects of this approach and share illustrative examples?
Students at the ‘Gita Chanting’ class.
The vision statement of the National Education Policy (NEP) declares “transforming Nation through the education system rooted in India.” The purpose of education is to transform the child, preparing them for life beyond examinations. At CIRS, this transformation encompasses cognitive, affective, and psychomotor domains, shaping the child’s character through holistic education. Our day starts with yoga, asanas, and pranayama, preparing students physically and mentally. We greet each other with “Hari Om” and encourage students to touch the feet of their parents and elders, instilling reverence. Daily, 30-minute spiritual classes explore scriptures like the Ramayana, Mahabharata, Gita, and Upanishads, promoting values through discussions and brainstorming. Morning assemblies feature cultural talks by students, highlighting Indian traditions. Cultural integration in subjects includes teaching ancient Indian medicinal uses in EVS and Brahmagupta’s contributions in math. Students present plays on different tribal communities, enhancing cultural appreciation. This comprehensive approach ensures values are integrated into everyday learning, making them applicable in real life.
Students take part in a Pranayama Session.
Q. Balancing Indian values with global competitiveness is crucial in today’s world. How does your school achieve this balance while ensuring students excel academically and compete internationally?
The Global Generation.
Indian values have always been inclusive, encompassing global competitiveness. In almost every lesson, global perspectives are included. For example, during the celebration of Pongal, students also learn about harvest festivals around the world. They learn the national anthems of other countries alongside the Indian anthem. Initiatives like the International School Award program and Generation Global sessions are regular features at the school. The school has registered for the Generation Global initiative under the Tony Blair Foundation UK, allowing students to chat and discuss various topics with peers worldwide. Last year, students worked on different aspects of the G20 countries when India hosted the summit, beautifully integrating the concept of “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam” in classrooms. Additionally, our curriculum includes subjects like “Knowledge, Traditions, and Practices of India” (KTPI), where students are exposed to experts in fields such as ancient architecture, metallurgy, and martial arts. Vedic mathematics is taught and assessed for classes 5 to 8, and classical music and dance are integral parts of the curriculum. These integrations ensure students excel academically while appreciating their cultural heritage.
Interactions with students from other countries.
Q. Can you share instances where Indian value-based education has positively influenced students’ character development and ethical understanding at your school?
Students take part in the ‘Matru-Pitru Pooja’.
Values are universal, not just Indian. The competitiveness in education needs to be replaced by accommodativeness. Competition nurtures jealousy and selfishness among students, whereas we encourage students to help each other and recognize those who demonstrate good character and citizenship with soft skill awards, irrespective of academic performance. For example, one of our national record-holding sprinters let his roommate win an inter-house race. This touching gesture was applauded in the school assembly, emphasizing the value of selflessness. Additionally, daily evening sessions of Arthi and meditation, as well as the celebration of all festivals by explaining their true philosophical essence, help reinforce these values. The practice of “Matru Pitru Puja” during annual day celebrations, where children perform puja to their parents, is another significant initiative that fosters respect and reverence for elders. We also conduct annual exhibitions depicting the cultural highlights of our country in sports, architecture, and leadership, helping students appreciate and connect with their heritage.
The ‘Bal-Sevaks’.
Q. Within Indian value-based education, how does your school foster 21st-century skills like critical thinking, problem-solving, and digital literacy? Could you provide examples of these efforts?
‘STEM Education’ at the school.
CIRS encourages critical thinking, problem-solving, and digital literacy through innovative activities. The creative thinking webpage features student-written poems on monthly themes. The student-managed monthly magazine “Cross Roads” fosters leadership. Students present papers in forums; recently, a paper on the Indian Knowledge System by two students won first prize and Rs. 25,000/-. Assessments are real-life connected and open-ended. For instance, class 8 students analyze neighbours’ fuel bills to suggest energy conservation methods. Students conduct energy audits and reduce food waste, promoting responsibility. The Springboard Initiative of Infosys enhances digital literacy. Regular Sanskrit workshops also connect students with classical languages, enhancing cognitive abilities.
Mrs. Shanti Krishnamurthy at an ‘Expo’ conducted by students.
Q. What strategies does your school employ to ensure that students not only succeed academically but also develop a strong cultural identity and social responsibility?
‘SPIC MACAY’ cultural programs at the school.
At CIRS, students are deeply connected to Indian cultural practices as part of their education. Our structured syllabus for chanting, regular mass chanting, and celebrating festivals with a focus on their philosophical essence reinforces cultural identity. The subject “Knowledge, Traditions, and Practices of India” (KTPI) offered at the senior secondary level exposes students to various fields like ancient architecture, metallurgy, and martial arts through expert talks. Annual exhibitions showcase cultural highlights in sports, architecture, and leadership. Additionally, the requirement for students to complete 120 hours of service over two years, earning a “Bal Sevak” certificate, instils a sense of social responsibility. Workshops and expos motivate students to pursue civil services, and parents are actively oriented to partner with the school, ensuring a collaborative approach to nurturing children. Various mother tongue clubs function to help children nurture their home language skills, preserving their linguistic heritage. These strategies ensure students succeed academically while developing a strong cultural identity and social responsibility.
The ‘Inter-School Math Expo’.
Q. From your perspective, what role should Indian value-based education play in preparing students for the challenges of the 21st century? Can you provide examples of how your school is fulfilling this role?
Students take part in ‘Community Service’.
Value-based education is essential for addressing today’s societal challenges. The erosion of health standards, family relationships, and cultural identity can be countered through a holistic education that integrates physical, emotional, intellectual, and spiritual aspects. At CIRS, initiatives like the “Matru Pitru Puja,” where students perform a touching puja for their parents, reinforce respect and emotional bonds, involving parents actively in their children’s education. The holistic approach ensures that students remain relaxed and stress-free, even before board examinations. Moreover, workshops, Sanskrit classes, mother tongue clubs, and cultural exhibitions help students appreciate and preserve their heritage while preparing them to face global challenges confidently. By blending traditional values with modern education, we aim to cultivate well-rounded individuals capable of contributing positively to society.
Students take part in ‘Indian Music’ classes.
