As the bell rings to mark the dawn of another year, our focus remains steadfast on societal upliftment. Once again, we gather at the heart of it all to celebrate International Women's Day on March 8, 2024. This global holiday serves as a poignant reminder of the ongoing struggle for gender equality, educational balance, reproductive rights, and the eradication of violence against women.

 

Originating from labor movements in North America and Europe during the early 20th century, International Women's Day has evolved into a beacon of empowerment for women worldwide. At EGN India, we echo this sentiment by championing the talents within the education industry.

 

Over the year, our efforts have led us to encounter numerous unsung heroes in education—a sector fundamental to a nation's development in moral, economic, and social spheres. Together, let us honor these individuals who tirelessly work to shape the future generation and pave the way for progress.

 

As we delve into the inspiring stories of female leaders in education, such as Dr. Meenakshi Ramesh, Ms. Sheba Thapar, Dr. Usha Reddy and Dr. Arundhati Hoskeri, it becomes evident that their transformative journeys have left an indelible mark. Their dedication, innovation, and advocacy for equality have set benchmarks, showcasing the profound impact of female leadership in education

 

Let us dive into the inspiring thoughts of these empowered women in education -

 

1)    Can you share a story or experience that illustrates the impact of female leadership in education?

Dr. Meenakshi Ramesh, Director, Curriculum Research and Development, Vels Group of Schools, Chennai - Certainly! My journey in education began as a lecturer in 1979, and today, as the Director overseeing curriculum and academics for 23 schools at Vels Group of Institutions, it's been a transformative experience. Starting from Delhi University, where I earned my B.Sc. and M.Sc. in Zoology, I pursued further studies in education, including a Ph.D. My passion for staying updated with educational trends led me to delve into computer software and become a NABET Accredited Assessor.

 

Throughout my career, I've prioritized holistic learning and nurturing educators. Achieving a 100 percent pass rate at CBSE Bhaktavatsalam Vidyashram and transformative work as a Principal further fueled my dedication. Beyond academics, I embrace a creative approach, fostering creativity through thematic curriculum projects. My efforts have been recognized with prestigious awards, including the "Iconic Senior Leadership in School Education 2023."

 

As a firm believer in ongoing professional development, I've trained over 400 candidates in Cambridge Professional Development. My journey reflects a commitment to excellence and innovation, with a focus on empowering fellow educators and shaping future generations. My story underscores the profound impact of female leadership in education, advocating for policies and programs that benefit the broader educational community. Wishing all women educators a rewarding Women’s Day!

 

2)    2) How do you prioritize work-life balance, and what advice would you give to other women striving to excel in their careers while maintaining personal well being?

 

Sheba Thapar, Founder, Sacredstep Experiential Learning School, Delhi - In the education sector, challenges are inevitable for everyone, particularly female aspirants who face immense pressure in various aspects. Time management is crucial, requiring a careful balance between work and family life. Support is essential for success, and maintaining a sense of equilibrium helps handle the pressure without succumbing to stress. Personally, I prioritize "me time" by waking up early, emphasizing the importance of balance. While there is a growing number of women in education due to their nurturing character, it's crucial not to lose one's inner child. I encourage women in leadership to excel in their roles but also engage in personal hobbies and interests to maintain a fulfilling and balanced life.

 

3)    3) As a woman in leadership position within the education sector, what challenges have you faced, and how have you overcome them?

Dr. Usha Reddy, Advisor, GVK educational initiatives & Basilwoods School, ISKCON, Hyderabad - To be honest, in the education sector, especially in school education, I haven't personally encountered significant challenges. The school environment is predominantly female-dominated, with few men on staff. However, we have faced some issues regarding gender balance, particularly in addressing certain behaviors exhibited by male students. In such cases, we prioritize counseling and raising awareness among both students and staff about the importance of gender equality. We firmly believe that fostering an ecosystem of equality within our schools is paramount.

 

While establishing this ethos among our staff has been relatively straightforward, we have encountered challenges with some parents. There's often a tendency for parents to assign traditional gender roles at home, such as expecting girls to handle household chores while neglecting boys' involvement. Over the years, we've consistently emphasized the importance of treating children equally and providing equal opportunities regardless of gender. We've conducted sessions with parents to promote awareness and encourage fair treatment at home.

 

Additionally, we've faced instances where parents expressed a desire to transfer their daughters to all-girls schools as they reached a certain age. However, we firmly believe in preparing students for the realities of the world, which includes interactions with individuals of all genders. We advocate for providing girls with the tools and confidence to thrive in diverse environments, rather than sheltering them unnecessarily. It's crucial to instill a sense of equality from a young age, ensuring that students are equipped to navigate the complexities of society with resilience and strength.

 

4)   4) What role do you see women playing in shaping the future of education, particularly in the context of technological advancements and evolving teaching methods?

Dr. Arundhati Hoskeri, Consultant, Cambridge International School, Mumbai - Women are quick learners, today they are increasingly striding in technology, engineering, and computer science, bringing diverse perspectives and innovative solutions. They are harnessing the power of technology to enhance learning experiences and make education more accessible to all. From developing educational apps and online platforms to incorporating virtual reality and artificial intelligence into classrooms, women are at the forefront of leveraging technology to revolutionize teaching and learning.

Women often bring unique empathetic and nurturing qualities to the teaching profession, which can be particularly valuable in an era where personalized and student-centered learning approaches are gaining prominence. Their ability to cultivate inclusive and supportive learning environments fosters creativity, critical thinking, and collaboration among students.

women are taking initiatives to bridge the digital gaps and ensure that all learners, regardless of gender or socioeconomic background, have the opportunity to thrive in an increasingly technology-driven world.

In a nutshell, women are playing a vital role in shaping the future of education by harnessing technology, fostering innovation, and promoting inclusive learning environments. Their contributions are instrumental in preparing students for success in an ever-changing global society.

"Women are the architects of education's future, leveraging technology and empathy to build inclusive learning environments and bridge the digital gap.”

 

As we delve into the inspiring stories of female leaders in education, such as Dr. Meenakshi Ramesh, Sheba Thapar, Dr. Usha Reddy and Dr. Arundhati Hoskeri, it becomes evident that their transformative journeys have left an indelible mark. Their dedication, innovation, and advocacy for equality have set benchmarks, showcasing the profound impact of female leadership in education.

 

In the face of challenges, these leaders exemplify resilience, whether it's in navigating gender imbalances, promoting equal opportunities, or preparing students for a diverse world. Their stories resonate with a common theme—the belief in the power of education to shape a brighter, more equitable future.

 

On this International Women's Day, let's not only celebrate these remarkable women in education but also acknowledge the collective impact of all women in shaping a future where knowledge knows no bounds. Through dedication, innovation, and a commitment to equality, women continue to pave the way for transformative change in the educational landscape.