“I See Education Becoming More Personalised, Interdisciplinary And Technology-driven”

At the recently-organised Top Education Brands Awards, KIIT World School, New Delhi, was awarded in ‘Innovative School of India’ category. Principal Sangeeta Bhatia describes a series of innovative practices that the school has introduced for enriching the learning process and for preparing the students for future. Excerpts:

KIIT World School is known for its innovation-driven approach. Can you elaborate on some specific programmes or initiatives that exemplify this?

At KIIT, we have several innovative programmes designed to enrich student learning. Our Jaadui Grid integrates co-curricular activities with academics, encouraging interdisciplinary learning. Project NIRMAAN empowers students through peer education in oratory, STEM, and theatrical skills. Our Centre for Innovation in Teaching and Learning (CITL) helps teachers stay updated on the latest teaching practices, while Reflective Journaling through Almanac encourages students to actively reflect on their learning journey. These programmes foster creativity and ensure students are prepared for the future.

What steps does KIIT World School take to ensure a balanced curriculum that fosters both academic excellence and personal development?

We believe in nurturing the whole child—intellectually, emotionally, and socially. Our curriculum balances core academic subjects with arts, sports, and life skills. Through initiatives like Action Research on Teacher Competencies for NEP 2020 Outcomes and the CFFC (Creative Forum For Change), we ensure that both students and teachers are growing continuously. We emphasise experiential learning, project-based assessments, and reflective practices to build strong, independent learners who are capable of adapting to different challenges.

We have established partnerships with various organisations to expand our students’ horizons. Our collaboration with partner schools across the globe allows students to participate in many programmes and competitions, such as Atal Innovation Mission’s ATL initiatives and World Creativity and Innovation Day. These collaborations not only provide exposure to global best practices but also offer opportunities for experiential learning, helping students apply their knowledge to real life problems. We also engage with higher education institutions to create awareness and accord opportunities for advanced learning and career readiness.

Extracurricular activities are a critical part of education at KIIT. We offer a wide range of activities, from sports to cultural events, to cater to varied interests. Project NIRMAAN for instance, encourages students to participate in activities that build their oratory, STEM, and theatrical skills. These experiences develop life skills like teamwork, leadership, and time management, which are crucial for success in any field. I believe that such involvement builds confidence and helps students discover and pursue their passions beyond academics.

How do you see the role of education evolving in the coming years, and what challenges do you foresee?

Education is rapidly evolving, especially with the rise of technology. In the coming years, I see education becoming more personalised, interdisciplinary  and technology-driven. The biggest challenge will be maintaining a balance between traditional perceived values and the integration of modern tools. Another key challenge is preparing students for careers that don't yet exist, requiring us to focus more on teaching critical thinking, adaptability, and emotional intelligence.

If you could share one piece of advice with aspiring educators, what would it be?

My advice would be to stay curious and never stop learning. Teaching is as much about evolving as it is about imparting knowledge. Be open to new ideas, listen to your students, and continuously adapt to their needs. Above all, maintain your passion for education, as it’s this passion that truly inspires students to learn and grow.

Meha Mathur

BW Reporters The author works as Senior Associate Editor with BW Businessworld