Leader Must Have: Integrity; Leader Must Create: More Leaders

Dhawan Kumar, Principal and Director at SBRS GURUKUL in Punjab’s Moga, shares profound insights into his leadership philosophy and approach to student success in a dialogue with Education Post’s Prabhav Anand. Reflecting on integrity, humility, and mission-driven leadership, Kumar underscores the importance of nurturing future leaders and prioritizing student well-being.

Q. What lessons have you learned that have shaped your leadership style and approach to fostering student success?

Integrity is the most important quality a leader should have; developing other leaders is the most important thing a leader should do.

Leaders have a mission to execute in any organization and how the leader inspires, directs, mentors, counsels, recognizes, and influences the students can be accomplished through many different styles and techniques. But once leaders make it about them, and forget the mission, dismiss the people, they will ultimately fail. Yes, there are plenty of examples of egotistical, self-centred, and toxic leaders that can “succeed,” but to me it is at a great cost to the students’ future and on the backs of many students.

Be humble, consider leading a privilege with demanding expectations, but always remember that “it’s not about you.

Q. The National Education Policy 2020 emphasizes the need for a more flexible and skill-oriented education system. How is your school implementing these principles to prepare students for the challenges of the future?

In today’s rapidly changing world, there is a shift away from simply mastering content to emphasizing the skill of learning itself. We at SBRS Gurukul School establish a National Mission on Foundational Literacy and Numeracy, encourage multilingualism and promotion of Indian languages, with a preference for the mother tongue as the medium of instruction up to grade 5, emphasis on equitable and inclusive education, with a heightened focus on vocational education, so it can provide students with the opportunity to pursue their passions, develop new skills, and gain a global perspective. The comprehensive approach and focus on vocational training will equip students with the information and skills necessary to succeed in their careers.

Q. Technology plays a significant role in modern education. How does your school leverage digital tools and platforms to enhance teaching and learning experiences for students and teachers?

By leveraging digital technology, Gurukul empowers teachers, enriches student learning experiences, and prepares future generations for a digital-driven world. We do provide a Digital library (online database) that allows students to access various academic and research materials, including e-books, scholarly articles, journals, and sample papers for secondary and senior secondary classes that can support their learning.

We have integrated IT-based curriculum i.e. learning management systems (LMS) which provides a centralized location for teachers to share resources and for students to access information.

Q. Addressing social issues such as bullying, mental health, and diversity is essential for creating a positive school climate. What initiatives does your school have in place to promote a culture of respect, empathy, and inclusivity?

A positive school culture is one where students feel safe, supported, and valued, leading to better academic performance and overall well-being. Respect is at the core of a positive school culture.

Gurukul teachers and students are adhering to the value-based school policy which consists of a school-wide behavior plan that outlines the expected behaviors and the consequences for violating them. Teachers have created their own classroom rules and consequences. We encourage students to participate in initiatives such as anti-bullying campaigns and diversity awareness programs. School has initiated Roti Bank, School Clubs, School of Values Policy, Evening School to inculcate the values and responsibilities towards our society and Nation.

Q. Can you share an example of a partnership or collaboration with external organizations or community groups that has enriched the learning experiences of students at your school?

When schools and community organizations work together to support learning, everyone benefits. Partnerships can serve to strengthen, support, and even transform individual partners, resulting in improved program quality, more efficient use of resources, and better alignment of goals and curricula.

Gurukul has established a Skill hub under PMKVY in the school campus. Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY) is the flagship scheme of the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE) implemented by National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC).