Author: VIBGYOR Group of Schools

Cultivating Sustainable Futures Through Local Food Initiatives

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According to the 2020 report on Empowering Communities through Participatory Learning and Action Approach, more than a quarter of the world’s undernourished people are in India, despite economic growth and self-sufficiency in food grain production.

However, the emergence of local food initiatives has not only ensured access to fresh, nutritious food but also sparked a wave of economic growth and community empowerment.

Before delving in-depth, let’s take a moment to consider the importance of empowering communities through local food initiatives.

  • Fostering self-reliance: Local food networks allow farmers to cultivate their own food. Communities reduce their dependence on external sources and gain control over their food supply, leading to greater resilience and the ability to thrive independently.
  • Increasing employment opportunities: By encompassing every stage of the food supply chain – farming, harvesting, processing, and selling – these initiatives create employment opportunities. As a result, local food initiatives foster economic growth, creating a ripple effect that strengthens the entire community.
  • Inspiring innovation: Through local food networks, communities tap into their collective creativity and resourcefulness. Such community food projects inspire innovative solutions and encourage experimentation with new farming techniques and community engagement strategies. For example, DeHaat utilises AI, data analytics, and machine learning to streamline the supply chain, reduce inefficiencies, and ensure better prices for farmers.

Another initiative that uses IoT is Farm Basket which has introduced vending machines that dispense fresh, locally grown fruits and vegetables. The innovation lies in making healthy, farm-fresh produce available 24/7 in urban areas, offering convenience to busy city dwellers while supporting local farmers.

  • Reducing carbon footprint: By prioritising local production and consumption, these initiatives eliminate the need for long-distance transportation, which contributes to greenhouse gas emissions. This shift not only supports environmental sustainability but also promotes a healthier planet.
  • Building sustainable roots: Laying the foundation for food sustainability, these efforts instil a sense of responsibility towards the environment and future generations, ensuring that communities remain strong, healthy, and self-sufficient for years to come.

While local food initiatives have become the cornerstone of sustainable development, Budget 2024 has played a pivotal role towards this grassroots movement. The budget’s strategic focus on local food systems is a testament to its commitment to building a stronger, more self-reliant India.

Budget 2024: Sowing the seeds of an agriculture revolution

A substantial allocation of ₹1.52 lakh crore strengthens the foundation of an inclusive agriculture ecosystem. With a laser focus on agri-infrastructure and rural development, the budget empowers farmers to make informed choices, access financial resources, and adapt to changing market conditions with ease.

Moreover, in the next two years, one crore farmers across the country are going to be initiated into natural farming. While oilseeds and pulses production will be on the rise, Farmer-Producer Organisations (FPOs), cooperatives, and start-ups for vegetable supply chains – for collection, storage, and marketing – are going to be promoted.

With the Budget 2024, the government has made a bold commitment towards community empowerment. But over the years, several local food systems have fortified the nation’s food security and economic stability, and continue to do so. 

The Food System in India: Challenges, Performance and Promise Report 2023 mentions that towards 2030 and beyond, feeding India’s growing population is going to be a major task.

There is a need to analyse India’s economic development, agricultural production, and nutrition through a “food systems approach. Local food initiatives are bridging the gap between food production and nutrition, transforming lives and fuelling sustainable development across communities.

Here are some community food projects that have been making a difference.

Local food initiatives: Feeding communities, fuelling change

Eat Right

This community food project is based on three broad pillars – Eat Healthy, Eat Safe, and Eat Sustainable. A pan-India movement, it not only promotes good food habits for people but also food that is good for the planet. Integrating a ‘whole of society’ approach, this initiative blends regulatory, capacity-building, collaboration, and empowerment approaches.

Save Food, Share Food, Share Joy

Tackling food waste and hunger, this program empowers people to minimise their food wastage. Several local food networks come together to provide strategic policies and facilitate the safe distribution of surplus food by connecting trained food recovery agencies with food chains.

Farmer’s Market

Aimed at uplifting small and marginal farmers, this program directly connects them to the consumers. This local food initiative empowers the farmers by substantially increasing their income and transforming them into entrepreneurs, who are not dependent on the middlemen or other intermediaries to reach the market.

Farm to Table

Also known as farm to fork, this farm-to-table movement strives to promote serving local food at restaurants and cafeterias by establishing a direct sales relationship with the producer. A social movement, this community food project gained momentum by aligning with the change in attitudes about food safety, food freshness, seasonality, and small-farm economics.

Promoting Seasonal Consumption

Local food initiatives are reshaping the way we think about what’s on our plate. These sustainable food practices highlight the unmatched quality and flavour of seasonal produce, which is harvested at its peak and delivered fresh. By choosing seasonal over frozen, we embrace a sustainable lifestyle that supports local farmers, reduces our carbon footprint, and solidifies our connection with nature.

Clean Street Food

An all-rounded approach to food safety and healthy nutrition, this initiative focuses on street food vendors’ social and economic upliftment through training and capacity-building. Building healthy communities through local food, the initiative aims to keep a tab on street food’s health, hygiene and safety standards whilst enhancing Street food’s popularity by transforming it into a global brand.

As we celebrate World Food Day on the 16th of October, we strive to create a more informed public, capable of making choices that benefit both personal health and the planet. Local food initiatives have presented us with a holistic approach to nourishing communities, supporting local economies, and ensuring a sustainable future for all. These initiatives pave the way for a future where food security is not just a goal but a reality for all.

The Climate Academy at VIBGYOR Group of Schools provides opportunities for students to tackle climate challenges and become proactive changemakers.

Student Exchange Programme Expanding Horizons: The Importance of Student Exchange Programmes in K-12 Education

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In today’s interconnected world, fostering global citizens equipped with intercultural understanding is more crucial than ever. The student exchange programmes bridge geographic divides, offering K-12 students a transformative experience that transcends textbooks. By immersing themselves in new cultures, languages, and educational systems, students embark on a journey of self-discovery that enriches their academic development, personal growth, and future prospects.

Broadening Academic Horizons
Student exchange programmes provide a unique opportunity to engage with different educational systems and teaching methodologies. Students are exposed to new subjects, approaches to learning, and diverse perspectives within their chosen field of study. This exposure can spark intellectual curiosity, enhance critical thinking skills, and encourage a deeper understanding of their own academic pursuits.

For example, consider a science student from India participating in an exchange programme focused on environmental conservation in Europe. They may witness cutting-edge sustainability practices and collaborate with international peers on tackling global challenges. This first-hand experience not only deepens their scientific knowledge but also ignites a passion for environmental responsibility.

These academic exchanges foster a spirit of lifelong learning, encouraging students to embrace new ideas and adapt to unfamiliar learning environments. This adaptability forms a crucial skill set for success in a globalised workplace, where working collaboratively with individuals from various backgrounds is increasingly important.

Fostering Cultural Understanding
Student exchange programmes serve as a bridge between cultures, promoting tolerance, empathy, and a genuine appreciation for diversity. Living and learning alongside students from different backgrounds provides invaluable first-hand experience with customs, traditions, and social norms beyond what textbooks can offer.

Imagine a student from a bustling metropolitan city participating in an exchange programme in a rural village. They may experience a slower pace of life, participate in traditional farming practices, and learn to appreciate the value of community. This cultural immersion fosters empathy and understanding, challenging their own preconceived notions of the world.

Exchange programmes also provide a platform for students to develop their communication skills in a real-world context. By interacting with native speakers, students overcome language barriers and gain confidence in expressing themselves in a foreign tongue. This enhances their overall communication skills, preparing them for future interactions with people from diverse cultural backgrounds.

Building Bridges: Cultivating Personal Growth and Independence
Student exchange programmes act as catalysts for personal growth and development. Stepping outside one’s comfort zone and adapting to a new environment fosters self-reliance, problem-solving skills, and resilience. Students learn to navigate unfamiliar situations, manage their time effectively, and develop a sense of independence that proves invaluable throughout their lives.

Furthermore, exchange programmes provide exceptional opportunities for personal growth through forging meaningful relationships with students from different cultures. These friendships broaden perspectives, challenge preconceived notions, and teach invaluable lessons about teamwork, collaboration, and building bridges across borders.

A World of Opportunities: Preparing Students for the Future
Student Exchange Programmes equip students with valuable skills and experiences that enhance their future prospects. Universities and colleges increasingly seek applicants with global competencies and intercultural understanding. Participating in a Student Exchange Programme demonstrates a commitment to personal growth, adaptability, and a willingness to embrace new challenges – qualities highly valued by employers in today’s globalised workforce.

Students who participate in exchange programmes may also discover new academic or career interests. An exchange programme focused on art and design could spark a passion for pursuing a career in fashion or graphic design. This exposure to diverse opportunities broadens their perspectives and empowers them to make informed decisions about their future paths.

VIBGYOR Schools’ STEP and EUmIND Initiatives
VIBGYOR Schools, a leading educational institution in India, recognises the transformative power of student exchange programmes. Their innovative Student Teacher Exchange Programme (STEP) allows students to participate in cultural exchange programmes with partner schools in various countries. STEP provides students with carefully curated experiences designed to broaden their academic knowledge, cultivate cultural understanding, and promote personal growth.

VIBGYOR also takes international collaboration to the next level with its EUmIND initiative. This programme fosters student exchanges specifically within European Union countries, allowing students to experience the rich cultural tapestry of Europe first-hand. EUmIND creates a platform for students from diverse backgrounds to learn from each other, fostering a spirit of global citizenship.

These initiatives demonstrate VIBGYOR’s commitment to providing students with a well-rounded education that extends beyond traditional academic boundaries. By prioritising international experiences, VIBGYOR empowers its students to become global citizens equipped to thrive in an interconnected world.

Conclusion
Student exchange programmes in K-12 education offer a transformative experience that benefits students on a personal, academic, and global level. These programmes equip students with the skills and perspectives necessary to thrive in an interconnected world by fostering self-reliance, intercultural understanding, and a global mindset. As the world continues to shrink, the importance of fostering global citizens who can collaborate and contribute to a better future cannot be overstated. Student exchange programmes are a powerful tool for achieving this goal, creating a generation of individuals prepared to lead the way in a world without borders.

Beyond Words: Effective Approaches to Parent-Child Communication

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Children are easily influenced by the words and actions of those around them. As parents, it is up to you to keep the conversations more free-flowing and enhance parent-child communication.

When you converse with your child as if they are the wisest and kindest ones, you not only nurture their self-esteem but also encourage them to see themselves through a lens of positivity, confidence, and compassion.

But, why are communication skills vital for children?

Parent-child relationship building is all about understanding a child’s perspective and truly connecting with them on a deeper level. By honing their communication skills, you empower them to thrive in a world where communication is key to success and fulfillment.

Even the ‘Parent-Child Communication: A Case Study of Teachers from a Romanian Life-Sciences University’ study suggests that the relationship between parents and children can be improved if parents do their best to communicate effectively. This allows the child to feel heard and understood.

So, here are some effective communication techniques to improve your dialogue with children:

Listen carefully

This involves affirming and accepting your child’s emotions. When you listen to your little ones, you show them that they are loved, and in turn, they too are motivated to communicate freely. Active listening skills require you to show intent, sit at their eye level to make them feel equal to you when they speak, and ask more questions to let them know that you are interested.

Be more expressive

Often, the unspoken cues speak louder than words, and your facial expressions convey a lot that is unsaid. A simple gesture like patting your child’s back on a job well done, a bear hug, or just your tone of voice can express how you feel or what you think about the topic at hand. The way you sit, stand, or hold your kid’s hand means more to them.

Speak with clarity

Converse with your child in a way that is concise, understandable, and makes them feel respected and loved. Being mindful of your words creates a supportive and loving environment for your child’s growth and development.

Inspire through action

You must lead by example as your child emulates your behaviour, attitude, and values. So, remember to always make thoughtful choices. Be kind with your words, honest in your actions, and a positive role model, significantly influencing your child’s development and character.

Foster empathy

Respecting your child’s thoughts is a powerful way to validate their experiences and opinions. By showing empathy, you teach your child the importance of considering others’ viewpoints, nurturing their ability to forge positive relationships, and interacting with kindness and consideration. Here are some ways to introduce empathy in your parenting style:

  • Keep it open-ended: Instead of a ‘yes’ or ‘no’, open-ended questions allow your child to stay in control of the conversation and invite more meaningful discussions. Asking questions like, ‘What are you thinking about’ or ‘What do you think happened’, allows them to be more expressive and builds their social-emotional skills.
  • Opt for reflective listening: Don’t just listen, show your child that you care. This way, your child trusts you more and knows that you are an active part of their conversation. Phrases like, ‘I’m sorry to hear that…’, ‘It sounds like…’ or ‘In other words…’, can help keep the conversation going.
  • Acknowledge their emotions: When your child experiences a certain emotion, don’t negate it. Instead use responses like, ‘I’m sorry you are hurting, or ‘Are you worried about something?’. This validates their feelings and reassures them that it is natural to feel a range of emotions.

Family Bondings

In today’s digital age, prioritise healthy family communication by setting aside dedicated time for your little one. Spend quality time with them, fostering an environment that encourages effective family dialogue and connections. Improve family communication skills through:

  • One-on-one time: Set aside specific time for your child, giving them every minute and opportunity to share their daily experiences and forging a stronger bond between the two of you.
  • Spend time with family: Reserve specific days for cosy family dinners or game nights that offer enjoyment and facilitate meaningful conversations with your little one.
  • Disconnect to reconnect: Create boundaries around your child’s and your screen time to make more time for each other, minimising distractions, and fostering unhindered interactions.

​​In addition to prioritising open communication, it is also important to be mindful of and steer clear of negative communication that can hamper your relationship with your child.

The Don’ts of Negative Communication

A ResearchGate review paper from March 2022, ‘Communication Problem and Conflicts in Parent-Child Relationship’, states that negative communication creates many psychological and social problems among children as well as parents.

So, be alert and aware, and correct these negative forms of communication if they arise.

Don’t dwell on the past

What’s done is in the past; once a conflict is resolved, refrain from revisiting past mistakes. Instead, support your child in moving forward with a clean slate.

Don’t criticise

While criticism involves judgment, correction serves as guidance. For example, instead of saying, ‘You are so messy’, tell them, ‘Leaving your toys scattered makes the room look untidy. Let’s put them away together.’

Don’t break the flow

Give your child the liberty to speak their mind and convey their thoughts. Interrupting them can make them feel discouraged and unwilling to share their feelings in the future.

Don’t lecture

Avoid lecturing as it can lead to your little one becoming defensive. Switch to some positive parenting strategies like asking them why they did what they did or helping them find solutions instead. Like many things in life, open communication is more about patience and practice, not perfection. As parents, you might inevitably make mistakes, but what improves parent-child communication and helps in building trust with children is your constant effort to communicate effectively with your kids from an early age.

Also check out our blog on Supporting Through Transitions: A Blueprint for Parents.

Choosing the Right Board for Your Child

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Choosing the right educational board for your child is one of the most critical decisions you’ll make as a parent. It can be overwhelming to decide which is the best school board for a child, as there are a variety of options available, including Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE), Indian Certificate of Secondary Education (ICSE), State Boards, Cambridge International Education (CIE), and International Baccalaureate (IB), and Waldorf. This comprehensive guide aims to simplify the process by comparing different educational boards, outlining their benefits, and providing factors to be considered while making the decision.

Understanding School Board Options

In India, every education board has its unique curriculum, teaching methodologies, and assessment patterns.

to different educational needs and goals.

CBSE is known for its national presence and structured curriculum, making it a popular choice among parents. The curriculum is designed to foster analytical skills and is aligned with competitive exams like JEE and NEET, making it suitable for students pursuing engineering or medical fields. CBSE provides national recognition and a strong emphasis on science and mathematics. However, it may offer less focus on the humanities and arts, with an occasional tendency towards rote learning. CBSE’s standardised curriculum provides consistency for families who move frequently within India.

On the other hand, ICSE focuses on a balanced curriculum with equal emphasis on languages, arts, and sciences. It encourages critical thinking and creativity, ensures a deep understanding of subjects. It provides a comprehensive curriculum with a strong emphasis on English language and literature, offering a holistic education. ICSE’s emphasis on English and comprehensive curriculum equips students for diverse yet rigorous academic pursuits.

State Boards offer region-specific curriculums and are usually taught in the regional language, suitable for those planning to pursue further education within the same state. State Boards provide affordability and a curriculum aligned with state universities but vary in quality and may not prepare students for national-level exams. The regional language medium can also pose challenges as it may cater only to local needs. 

Cambridge International Examinations (CIE), part of the International Board, provides a global perspective on education, emphasises on creativity, critical thinking, and independent learning, and prepares students for an interconnected world. It is ideal for families seeking an international standard of education for their children. CIE education can be expensive and have limited availability.

International Baccalaureate (IB)’s practical approach towards learning helps children carve their own learning path with real-life concept-based learning. By fostering critical thinking and problem-solving skills, IB prepares students to be global citizens and lifelong learners. This educational framework is designed to cultivate inquisitive minds, enabling them to apply their practical knowledge in various contexts.

Waldorf Education, on the other hand, makes students passionate about learning by teaching them a subject through various vantage points. This holistic approach integrates artistic, practical, and academic experiences to nurture creativity and cognitive development. Waldorf methods emphasise the development of the whole child—intellectually, emotionally, and socially—through a curriculum that evolves in harmony with the students’ growth stages. This approach encourages students to view learning as an interconnected and dynamic journey.


Selecting the Right Curriculum for Your Child

Selecting the right board for your child depends upon a lot of factors such as learning style, future plans, flexibility of easy transition between different boards, the school’s reputation, and affordability. For instance, children who thrive in structured environments can enjoy a disciplined learning approach in CBSE, while others who excel in a more balanced and exploratory learning approach can choose between ICSE or International Boards (CIE, IB, Waldorf).

Additionally, if you anticipate relocating within India, a national board like CBSE can provide continuity in education. Researching the schools offering the curriculum is crucial, as a good school can significantly enhance the learning experience, regardless of the board.

Parents’ Guide to School Boards

For parents, selecting the right education board involves careful consideration of various factors as mentioned below:

  1. Engage with teachers, visit schools, and talk to other parents to understand the pros and cons of each board.
  2. Take into account your child’s strengths, interests, and future aspirations.

The right school board is one that aligns well with your child’s learning style, aspirations, and your family’s educational philosophy.

SSC/HSCCBSECISCEIBWaldorfCIE
Full FormSecondary School Certificate/Higher Secondary CertificateCentral Board of Secondary EducationCouncil for the Indian School Certificate ExaminationsInternational BaccalaureateWaldorf EducationCambridge International Education
LevelStateNationalNational InternationalInternationalInternational
Examination2 major examinations on 10th (SSC) and 12th (HSC)2 major examinations on 10th and 12th2 examinations on 10th (ICSE) and one for 12th (ISC).Examinations are divided into 3 sections: PYP (Kg to 5th), MYP (6th to 10th) and DYP (11th and 12th).Multi-staged examination on real-life topics2 exams: IGCSE for 14- to 16-year-olds and  AS&A for 16- to 19-year-olds.
Learning ApproachMore focus on educating the students about their local and state heritage.Briefly consists of every essential topic as per the age of the students. The focus is more on textual knowledge.More emphasis on real-world application than memorizing.Students are liberated to explore the world and their surroundings limitlessly, with more focus on instilling in students the values of a global citizen.Developmentally appropriate, experiential, and practical approach.Solely intend to prepare the students for life after school. They have various (more than 50 subjects) to choose from and the curriculum is set according to the choice of the students.
Fee StructureNominalModerately highModerately highHighHighHigh
Language of InstructionState language and EnglishEnglish and HindiEnglishEnglishEnglishEnglish
Ideal For    Students aiming for state colleges and universities  Students who plan to attempt national competitive examsStudents who plan to pursue their higher education abroadStudents who seek global exposure and international educationStudents who like to explore their creativity through experience learningStudents who are seeking holistic education

Conclusion

At VIBGYOR Group of Schools, we offer a range of curriculum options to suit the diverse needs of our students, ensuring that each child receives the best possible education tailored to their unique abilities and goals. Whether you are considering CBSE, ICSE, or Cambridge (CIE), we provide a nurturing environment that supports your child’s academic and personal growth. In conclusion, choosing the right school board for your child is a significant decision that requires thorough research and thoughtful consideration. By understanding the differences and assessing your child’s needs and goals, you can make an informed decision that will provide the best educational foundation for their future. Remember, the right school board is one that best suits your child’s unique learning style and future aspirations

A Glimpse into the Evolution of Preschool Education in India

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Preschools have gained significant prominence, becoming an essential foundation for early childhood education. They are no longer just places for kids to play or socialise, but rather vibrant spaces where young minds are prepared for the future.

In the past, the Vedic education system required students to reside in the residential schools known as gurukuls. They studied the Vedas, languages, philosophies, and other skills under the guidance of their gurus.

Then, the early childhood education paradigm shifted to Montessori education. Mahatma Gandhi met Maria Montessori at a roundtable conference in London. He recognised the need for Montessori education for children in India and invited her to start a school there. Thus, the Montessori movement commenced in 1939, with a small group of students learning on the banks of the Adyar River in Chennai.

Then and Now: The Changing Face of Preschool Education

Over the years, preschool infrastructure in India has drastically transformed. From $4.2 billion in 2023, the ‘Indian Pre-School/Childcare Market Report’ states that the Indian preschool market is projected to reach $10.2 billion by 2032.

A realisation amongst parents about early childhood education has contributed to the growth of preschools in India. An increase in the number of nuclear families has also urged working parents to look for reliable early education options for their children. Additionally, rapid urbanisation and a rise in disposable income have enabled families to invest more in their children’s early education.

However, one of the biggest contributors to this changing landscape of preschools in India is government policies. They have provided the necessary framework for the establishment and growth of preschool education in India.

The National Education Policy 2023: A Blueprint for the Future

The new National Education Policy (NEP) of 2023 transitions from the 10+2 structure to a 5+3+3+4 system. The 5+3+3+4 structure denotes that students from the age group of 3-8 will spend five years in the foundational stage, whereas ones from 8-11 will spend three years in the preparatory stage. Students from the age group of 11-14 and 14-18 will spend 3 years and 4 years in the middle and secondary stages, respectively.

As mentioned by the International Journal for Multidisciplinary Research 2023, the motto of NEP is to Educate, Encourage, and Enlighten, with the government aiming to develop 21st-century skills in the students of India.

Key highlights of the NEP 2023 are:

  • Foundational Literacy and Numeracy (FLN): Improve every child’s basic writing, reading, and numerical skills by Grade 3.
  • Holistic development: Focus on cognitive, social, physical, and emotional abilities along with promoting critical thinking, problem-solving, creativity, and more.
  • Competency-based learning: Move away from rote learning and memorisation to learning that includes collaboration, creative learning, and digital literacy.
  • Redesigned pedagogy: Integrate vocational courses, arts, and sports for a well-rounded curriculum.
  • Technological advancements: Introduce the National Educational Technology Forum (NETF) that promotes technological innovation in education to improve classroom processes and teacher development.

The Influence and Impact of Preschool Trends and Philosophies

While government policies have been an integral factor in the growth of early childhood education in India, various philosophies have laid the groundwork for modern preschools in India, defining the new-age and developmentally appropriate curriculum and pedagogies.

Promising an innovative and globally competitive educational system, the inclusion of international educational philosophies within the Indian educational ethos equips young minds to thrive in a world where knowledge knows no borders.

Kindergarten Shaping Lifelong Learners

In the 19th century, Friedrich Frobel acknowledged the value of play-based learning and established the kindergarten concept. Kindergarten became a fundamental part of preschool teaching methods in India and fostered an environment where children learned through guided activities. Children learn the fundamentals of reading, writing, counting, shapes, creative arts, and social skills.

Montessori Magic: Self-Directed Path

Under this philosophy, children get the chance to leverage an opportunity to learn and self-correct at their own pace. Introduced by Maria Montessori, this learning method is impactful for kids who prefer doing things at their own pace and speed.

With the changing landscape of preschools in India, teachers can integrate the Montessori approach by opting for activities that children prefer rather than formal teaching methods. Activities like solving puzzles, scavenger hunts, or gardening make children self-motivated learners.

Waldorf Wonders: Hands-on Learning

Developed by Rudolf Steiner, this philosophy explores a comprehensive and holistic side of education, aiming to cultivate students’ intellectual, artistic, and practical abilities, emphasising the importance of imagination and creativity.

One of the integral preschool teaching methods in India, it incorporates activities like storytelling, singing, painting, or taking a walk in nature, which help children become more creative and discover new things about themselves.

Reggio Emilia: The Third Teacher Principle

Depending on experiential learning, this philosophy taps into a child’s curiosity and desire to learn via experimentation. Introduced by Loris Malaguzzi, this hands-on experience incorporates the environment as the third teacher.

While children can enhance their creativity with storytelling, word building, and other games, teachers can document these activities through videos, notes, and photographs.

Forest School: Learning Outdoors

Originating in Denmark, this philosophy builds a strong connection between children and nature. Similar to Rabindranath Tagore’s Naturalism philosophy, kids get to play, build, and explore materials in an outdoor setting.

Apart from inculcating a love for nature, this philosophy teaches children to be empathetic and resilient and makes them self-aware and better at problem-solving. A study by the Australian Council for Educational Research states that 90% of a child’s brain develops in the first five years of their life. This emphasises the crucial role that preschools play in the holistic development of a child. While new trends emerge and various preschool educational reforms materialise, parents must recognise the importance of early childhood education on a child’s overall development, and how it can enhance their future learning outcomes and contribute to the overall development of the nation.

Do check out VIBGYOR Kids and VIBGYOR Roots– VIBGYOR Group of Schools’ preschools.

Education 4.0 Framework: Reimagining Learning for the Next Generation

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Skill development is a seed, which when sown, develops strong roots. Children, in particular, benefit immensely from skill development as it shapes their minds and helps them grow into confident, capable individuals.  

Harvard’s Center on the Developing Child explains how skills like focus, awareness, planning, flexibility, and self-control can be instrumental in helping children navigate life’s toughest challenges. 

Yet, studies show that 85% of schools in India haven’t implemented vocational courses as part of their curriculum, showcasing the lack of a robust skilling educational ecosystem.  

Hence, a gap still exists between a child and the skills they need to thrive in life. 

The World Economic Forum’s Education 4.0 framework strives to bridge this gap. Wondering how? The framework emphasises the importance of interpersonal and socio-emotional skills like collaboration, communication, and coordination. It explains how these skills better prepare the next generation to navigate work and life.  

It was designed after detailed consultations with educational experts from schools, non-profits, education ministries, and the private sector. It highlights the abilities, skills, attitudes, and values essential to learning, from early childhood through secondary school, ensuring that children foster a holistic approach to skill development. 

What does this entail for the education sector? 

Standing on the cusp of an era marked by rapid transformations, this framework clearly states the role of educational institutions. It urges schools to encourage young learners to become innovators, problem-solvers, and visionaries who are equipped to excel in the evolving world. 

The mandate for educational institutions is clear: Cultivate a holistic learning approach that imparts concrete skills and fosters interpersonal and societal values that serve as the cornerstone for a lifetime of growth and learning. 

In the face of escalating demands, there is a need for education that transcends traditional paradigms. Hence, this framework underscores that the future of education must inspire children to develop qualities like teamwork, empathy, punctuality, critical thinking, and more, that cannot be replicated or replaced by technology. 

How can the Education 4.0 framework be implemented in schools? 

Divided into broader brackets of content and experiences, this framework presents eight transformations, ensuring that the next-generation learners are academically poised to lead in a complex global landscape.  

Dynamic content for skill adaptation 

Going beyond the classroom, the content bracket focuses on the built-in mechanisms for skill adaptation, which equips young learners with a versatile skill set and a proactive mindset. 

Interpersonal skills Focus on content that delves deeper into interpersonal emotional intelligence – skills like leadership, negotiation, empathy, cooperation, and more. Innovation and creative skills Include content that fosters skills needed to innovate, mainly analytical thinking, system analysis, creativity, and complex problem-solving. 
Global citizenship skills Includes content that focuses on generating awareness about sustainability, playing an active role in the global community, and more. Technology skills Incorporate content based on enhancing a child’s digital knowledge about programming, digital responsibility, and the use of technology. 

Experience-based pedagogies for hands-on learning 

This approach ensures children understand and apply the concepts in various scenarios and contexts, developing personalised learning. This is how schools can implement experiential teachings: 

  • Problem-based and collaborative learning: This type of learning focuses on enhancing peer collaboration that mirrors the future of work. For example, younger students can visit a zoo/planetarium/museum, note down their learnings, and form a group to collaborate and share their observations with the class. Or, they can convene as a group, brainstorm ideas on a particular subject, interview members from that industry, design a business plan, and present impactful solutions in front of their classmates and industry experts. At VIBGYOR Group of Schools, we offer students a unique forum to debate, deliberate, discuss, and resolve international relations-related issues based on the actual policies of the nations they represent through the VIBGYORMUN initiative. 
  • Personalised and self-paced learning: Shifting from a standardised learning system and implementing self-paced learning techniques can boost students’ self-confidence.. Teachers can also conduct one-on-one or mentoring sessions with students to help them progress at their own pace.   For example, using a self-learning tool to build a website or write codes, learning a concept through the help of a favourite cartoon show or sports, etc. competency-based learning can go a long way. At VIBGYOR, we also have a Personalised Learning Centre that offers learning support and counselling services to students. 
  • Lifelong and student-driven learning: A system where children can improve their existing skills and acquire new ones. For example, if they are good at communication and collaboration, they can be encouraged to participate in panel discussions, debates, or give presentations. 
  • Accessible and inclusive learning: This type of learning goes beyond the confines of educational institutions and is accessible to all. One that happens online, giving children the option of learning from anywhere. Adding an inclusive touch to this can be done in the form of one-on-one sessions for students who require it, asking for student feedback, offering captions or subtitles to simplify learning, and more.  

Schools, therefore, play a pivotal role in preparing students to take on the future. By integrating the principles specified in the Education 4.0 framework, educational institutions can bridge the learning gap by not only enhancing academic learning but also nurturing the social and emotional growth of students. It is a bold step towards building an equitable and thriving educational landscape, where the potential of each student is realised. 



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