In a tale of youthful exuberance and unforeseen peril, six students from Class 12 embarked on a journey to Goa, a rite of passage celebrated by many as a final hurrah before stepping into adulthood. With permission from their parents, who were perhaps too trusting or caught up in their own lives, the group set out with excitement pulsing through their veins. Upon landing, they were greeted not just by the balmy Goan air but by three massive SUVs, reserved for their adventure—a promise of freedom and the thrill of the open road.

Their accommodation was a sprawling villa, costing a small fortune at 70,000 INR per night, equipped with private pools and luxuriously appointed rooms. It was a palace for kings and queens of the night, a haven for six souls intertwined in the throes of adolescence. Three rooms for three couples, the arrangements were a testament to their intentions, seeking privacy and moments of unchecked passion under the guise of a holiday.

As the days unfolded, the allure of Goa’s vibrant nightlife beckoned. The students, drawn to the magnetic pull of music and dance, found themselves in the heart of the party scene, clubbing into the early hours. It was here, amidst the revelry, that they encountered individuals with sinister motives—drug peddlers who saw not just customers but vulnerable targets in these wide-eyed teenagers.

Swept up in a desire to appear worldly and sophisticated, the group made a decision that would pivot their holiday from a dream to a nightmare. They purchased drugs, a choice made without foresight or understanding of the consequences. Their naivety became their downfall when the police, vigilant and unyielding, caught them in possession of these illegal substances.

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The aftermath was swift and severe. The teenagers, underage and unprepared for the legal ramifications, were thrust into the cold reality of juvenile custody. Their parents, irrespective of their affluence, were faced with a situation no amount of money could easily resolve. Frantic and fearful, they did everything within their power to secure their children’s release, confronted with the harsh truth of their offspring’s actions.

This story, inspired by real events, serves as a stark reminder of the dangers lurking behind the facade of freedom and the allure of adulthood. It raises pressing questions about the role of guardianship and parental oversight in the lives of teenagers standing on the precipice of adulthood.

Could this grave misstep have been avoided had there been a local guardian present, a guiding light in unfamiliar territory? Would a more vigilant approach from the parents, a pause to question and understand, have rewritten the story’s conclusion? This incident forces us to confront the reality of our responsibilities towards our youth—not just to grant them freedom but to equip them with the wisdom to navigate it. As we ponder the delicate balance between trust and caution, we must ask ourselves: At what cost does freedom come, and are we doing enough to ensure that the journey into independence does not lead to a fall from grace?

To read more on such trends that need to be called out and #un-trended, head to the April issue of our magazine here. 

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In the wake of escalating environmental concerns and the global push towards sustainability, the demand for green careers is surging. This World Health Day, celebrated on 22 April, 2024, let us understand these careers that not only aim to protect and preserve our planet but also offer promising economic prospects. Indian educational institutions, recognising the burgeoning sector of environmental jobs, are increasingly gearing their curricula and guidance services to help students navigate this new green economy.

Understanding Green Careers

Green careers encompass a broad spectrum of industries and sectors that aim to reduce environmental impact and promote sustainability. From renewable energy and sustainable agriculture to environmental policy and green architecture, the opportunities are vast and varied. These careers are crucial in addressing the challenges posed by climate change, resource depletion, and ecological degradation.

The Role of Schools in Promoting Green Careers

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Schools play a pivotal role in shaping the career choices of students. By integrating environmental education and sustainability into their curricula, schools can expose students to the importance and viability of green careers. This can be achieved through several strategic initiatives:

1. Curriculum Integration: Incorporating topics on sustainability, environmental science, and eco-friendly technologies within the STEM subjects can provide students with the foundational knowledge necessary for pursuing careers in these fields.
2. Career Counselling: Schools can offer specialised counselling sessions that inform students about various green careers. These sessions can include information on the requisite educational paths, potential job markets, and long-term benefits of working in eco-conscious sectors.
3. Industry Partnerships: Collaborations with companies and organisations in the sustainability sector can offer students real-world exposure through internships, workshops, and guest lectures. These experiences are invaluable in helping students make informed decisions about their future careers.
4. Project-Based Learning: Encouraging students to undertake projects that solve real environmental issues can spark interest in green careers. These projects not only enhance learning but also instil a sense of responsibility towards the environment.

The Indian Job Market Prospects 

In India, the renewable energy sector is a significant employer, with the country aiming to reach a renewable energy capacity of 450 GW by 2030. Careers in solar panel installation, wind energy engineering, and sustainability consultancy are on the rise. Moreover, the government’s emphasis on clean technologies and sustainable urban planning is creating numerous opportunities in green architecture and environmental planning.

Global Job Market Trends

Globally, the green job market is expanding rapidly. In Europe, the European Green Deal aims to make the EU’s economy sustainable by turning climate and environmental challenges into opportunities across all policy areas. This initiative is expected to bolster job creation in renewable energy, energy efficiency, and green transportation sectors.

In the United States, the growth of the electric vehicle (EV) industry is driving demand for jobs ranging from high-tech battery manufacturing to network systems management for EV charging stations. Similarly, the push for green buildings is fuelling a need for professionals skilled in green construction and building information modelling.

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Preparing Students for the Future

By promoting green careers, schools are not only guiding students towards economically viable job paths but are also preparing them to be active participants in the stewardship of the planet. This dual focus on economic growth and environmental sustainability is essential for building a resilient global economy that can address the pressing challenges of our times.

To summarise, as the world increasingly pivots towards sustainability, the role of education in preparing the next generation for green careers becomes more crucial. Schools that embrace this shift not only contribute to the global demand for environmental stewards but also ensure that their students are ready for the future job market—a market that values both the economy and the environment.

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In the intricate fabric of contemporary society, entwined with the threads of status and materialism, the ritual of gift-giving to young children has morphed into a showcase of wealth and social stature. This tale shines a light on the ripple effect of such extravagance through the eyes of Ayaan’s peers, young souls caught in the whirlwind of competition and comparison.

When Ayaan arrives at school with sneakers worth 80k or brandishes the latest iPhone as casually as a textbook, it’s not just a display of wealth; it becomes a benchmark, setting aflame a cycle of envy and desire among his classmates. The children, innocent in their yearnings, unknowingly step onto a treadmill of materialistic pursuit, urging their parents towards the edge of financial prudence in a bid to not fall behind.

The spectacle reaches its zenith when Ayaan, in a display of unparalleled opulence, gifts iPods as return gifts on his birthday. An act, while grand, sends shockwaves through his circle, planting seeds of expectation and entitlement in young hearts. Parents, caught between nurturing happiness and teaching value, find themselves navigating a treacherous path of societal pressure and fiscal responsibility.

As each child in Ayaan’s orbit feels compelled to mirror his lavish lifestyle, the essence of childhood camaraderie is shadowed by the looming spectre of materialism. Friendships, once untainted by the world’s complexities, now bear the weight of economic disparity. The playground becomes a silent witness to conversations not of games and dreams, but of gadgets and brands, a testament to a culture veering away from the innocence of youth.

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The impact extends beyond the tangible, chipping away at the pillars of equality and mutual respect. As peers vie to outdo each other in a race fuelled by parental indulgence, the divide widens not just in their possessions but in their perceptions of self-worth and success. The classroom, a microcosm of society, reflects a disturbing trend of measuring one’s value through the lens of ownership and extravagance.

This narrative, while centred on Ayaan and his affluent displays, casts a spotlight on the broader societal implications of such gift-giving practices. It prompts a critical examination of the values we impart to our children and the world we aspire to create for them. As we navigate this maze of materialism and the stories of Ayaan and his peers unfold, they serve as a mirror to our collective conscience, urging us to reconsider the legacy we wish to leave behind. The question that beckons us to reflect is profound: Are we raising a generation that values possessions over people, status over substance?

To read more on such trends that need to be called out and #un-trended, head to the April issue of our magazine here. 

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In the bustling academic corridors of Woody High, nestled amidst the verdant suburbs of a thriving city, the story of Vikram, a bright and ambitious student, begins to unfold. Vikram, like many of his peers, found himself at a crossroads as he stepped into the crucial years of 11th standard, caught between the traditional path of school education and the burgeoning trend of dummy admissions.Classrooms to Coaching: The Shifted Focus

The lure of coaching centres, promising a direct route to success in competitive exams, became increasingly irresistible. Vikram watched as one by one, his classmates traded the familiar setting of classrooms for the rigorous regimen of coaching institutes. The promise was simple: a focused preparation tailor-made for cracking entrance exams, seemingly a pragmatic choice in an increasingly competitive world.

However, this exodus from school to coaching centres revealed a deeper malaise within the education system. Schools, once vibrant communities of learning and growth, had slowly morphed into factories churning out board exam results. The holistic development of students, their readiness for the world beyond the gates of Woody High, seemed to have taken a backseat to the singular pursuit of academic scores.

Vikram’s decision to join the coaching bandwagon was met with a mix of hope and apprehension. The initial months were a blur of new concepts, relentless practice sessions, and the constant pressure to outperform. Yet, as the novelty wore off, Vikram found himself yearning for the missed debates in history class, the group projects in science, and the sense of belonging that came with being part of the school community.

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The turning point came when Vikram, amidst his packed coaching schedule, volunteered for a community project. The experience was eye-opening, highlighting the gap between the rote learning at coaching centres and the practical knowledge and soft skills required in the real world. It dawned on Vikram that education was not just about clearing exams but about building a foundation for life.

As Woody High grappled with the dwindling numbers of students in its classrooms, it became evident that a change was needed. Schools had to evolve beyond their board-result orientation, integrating curriculum with real-world applications, fostering critical thinking, and preparing students for life’s myriad challenges.

The story, based on real incidents, raises the question that looms large, as we reflect on the narrative of #ClassroomOrCoaching: How can schools reclaim their role as sanctuaries of holistic education, ensuring they remain relevant and valuable in the lives of students like Vikram, not just as conduits to board results but as launchpads for their futures?

In a world where the race to the top often overlooks the essence of learning, can we afford to let coaching centres replace the rich, multifaceted experience of school education?

To read more on such trends that need to be called out and #un-trended, head to the April issue of our magazine here. 

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Imagine your child is attending their Year 12 farewell. It is a night they have been looking forward to, marking the end of their school journey and the start of something new. The atmosphere is charged with excitement, laughter, and the bittersweet feeling of saying goodbye. As the evening wraps up, the buzz does not fade; it shifts to the streets. A group of friends, adrenaline still running high from the night’s celebrations, decide to extend the farewell with a car rally. Among them is Aarav, driving his family’s SUV, a vehicle too powerful for his inexperienced hands.

The city sleeps as the convoy of cars snakes its way through the deserted streets, the hum of engines breaking the night’s silence. Aarav, feeling the thrill of the chase, pushes the pedal down, the speedometer needle climbing higher and higher. His friends, in the car beside him, cheer him on, the competition heating up as they approach the ring road. It is a wide stretch, seemingly perfect for their race, away from the prying eyes of the night.

But in a heartbeat, the night turns tragic. Aarav loses control. The SUV, now a projectile, careers off the road, skidding and tumbling for what seems like an eternity. The aftermath is a scene of devastation. The vehicle, unrecognisable, lies in ruins, and silence once again claims the night, now heavy with the weight of consequences.

By the time the first light of dawn touches the sky, the police are at the scene, piecing together the events. The accident leaves one young soul lost to the night and another battling for life in hospital. Questions swirl around the circumstances that led to this moment. Was it the rush of speed, a momentary lapse in judgement, or something more? The community is left reeling, grappling with the reality of a celebration turned catastrophe.

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As the investigation unfolds, the police sift through CCTV footage, trying to trace the sequence of events and the other vehicles involved. Speculations arise that the tragedy was the result of a high-speed race gone wrong. Amidst this, a family mourns the loss of their child, a farewell that was meant to be a celebration now a memory marred by loss and regret.

This story, though actual, has been anonymized to protect the identity and privacy of the student involved. It highlights a critical issue prevalent in communities worldwide: the trend of extravagant farewells escalating into dangerous activities, posing threats not only to the students but also to society as a whole.

As we reflect on this story, it compels us to ask: Is the pursuit of a grand goodbye worth the price of a life? How do we balance the celebration of milestones with the responsibility we owe to our children’s safety and to each other? This tale, inspired by true events, leaves us pondering the traditions we uphold and the lessons we impart to the young minds we are nurturing for the future.

To read more on such trends that need to be called out and #un-trended, head to the April issue of our magazine here. 

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STEMpedia, in collaboration with ART PARK@IISc, India’s premier AI & Robotics Technology Park, established by the Indian Institute of Science in Bengaluru, successfully concluded the national level event of 2023’s biggest innovation fest, Codeavour 5.0 International. This year’s event, supported by leading organisations including AI Foundry, Startup India, and INDIAai, witnessed participation from 300,000 students across 70 countries, underscoring its global impact and the cumulative achievements of the competition to date.

The event, which also enjoyed backing from entities like AWS, NITI Aayog, and STEM.org, focused on fostering hands-on learning and innovation among next-gen participants. They were encouraged to create projects using PictoBlox that would contribute towards making the world a better place, aligning with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.

Dhrupal Shah, Director and CEO of STEMpedia, reflected on the journey and the fest’s objectives, saying, “Five years ago, we initiated Codeavour with the intention to empower young innovators and equip them with the necessary skills for the future workforce. This year, we are thrilled to announce that the top 20 winners will be awarded a trip to Mexico to participate in the FAB24 Event, accompanied by their mentors.”

The fest not only highlighted the technical skills of young minds but also provided them with a platform to showcase their creative solutions to real-world problems. In addition to the innovation and entrepreneurship track, participants competed in the AI-Robo City Challenge, demonstrating their prowess in applying AI and robotics to urban development challenges.

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The panel discussion titled “AI EduFusion Conclave: Shaping Global School Education with AI, Robotics, and Policy Insights” was a highlight of the event, featuring experts like Dr. Sreejit Chakrabarthy from GEMS Dubai American Academy and Mr. Pankaj Verma from STEMpedia. The discussion provided insights into how governments and educational institutions are integrating AI and robotics into school curriculums to prepare students for future job markets.

The event culminated with the National Innovation Awards, where participants presented projects that tackled environmental challenges and proposed sustainable solutions. Winners from the event will now proceed to the International Showdown in Dubai, hosted in partnership with Dubai American Academy.

As Codeavour 5.0 International wraps up, its success marks a significant step forward in integrating technology and education, inspiring the next generation of innovators and leaders to think critically and act creatively. The continued expansion of this fest promises to keep pushing the boundaries of what young students can achieve in the fields of AI and robotics.

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In recent years, a troubling trend has emerged within the educational landscape: the rise of “Dummy Admissions,” where students formally enrolled in schools are effectively abandoning the classroom in favour of coaching institutes. This phenomenon, particularly prevalent from the 11th standard onwards, sees students dropping out of school to prepare for competitive exams under the tutelage of coaching centres, which were originally intended to supplement, not supplant, school education.

The shift has been stark. Coaching, once a support system, has transformed into a parallel education industry, with some arguing it overshadows the broader developmental benefits of traditional schooling. This evolution poses a critical question: How can schools reclaim their role not just as preparatory grounds for board exams but as sanctuaries of holistic education that truly prepare students for life?

The Diminishing Role of Schools

The primary role of any educational institution is to foster an environment conducive to learning, curiosity, and personal growth. Schools are meant to be arenas where young minds receive a balanced education — academically, socially, and emotionally. However, the allure of scoring top marks in competitive exams has tilted the focus sharply towards rote learning and intensive exam preparation, often at the expense of holistic development.

The Coaching Conundrum

Coaching centres operate with a laser focus on results, primarily targeting competitive exams like the JEE, NEET, and others. This narrow approach prioritises immediate academic results over long-term learning and personal development. Students, driven by the pressure to excel in these high-stakes environments, often find themselves estranged from the broader educational experiences that school offers — experiences that are crucial in shaping well-rounded individuals capable of adapting to life’s varied challenges.

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Reclaiming the Sanctuary of Education

For schools to regain their central place in the educational journey of students, they must evolve to meet the diverse needs of their students. Here are a few strategies that could help schools reassert their relevance:

1. Integrated Curriculum: Schools could integrate aspects of competitive exam preparation into their regular curriculum, thus reducing the need for external coaching. This would allow students to prepare for exams without missing out on the broader educational offerings of the school.
2. Focus on Skill Development: Beyond academic prowess, schools should enhance their focus on developing critical life skills such as critical thinking, problem-solving, creativity, and communication. These skills are crucial for success in professional and personal life and can make schooling more relevant.
3. Counselling and Support Services: Enhanced counselling services can help students navigate their educational pathways and career choices effectively. Schools should equip students with the tools to make informed decisions about their futures.
4. Experiential Learning: Schools must emphasise experiential and contextual learning, making education a more engaging, practical, and enjoyable experience. This can be achieved through project-based learning, internships, and real-world problem-solving scenarios.
5. Parental Engagement: Engaging parents in the educational process and informing them about the importance of a balanced education can help shift the focus from mere exam preparation to overall development.
6. Promotion of Arts and Sports: Encouraging participation in arts, sports, and other co-curricular activities can enrich students’ educational experience and support the development of a wide range of skills.

As the educational landscape continues to evolve, the challenge for schools is not just to prepare students for exams but to prepare them for life. In a world increasingly dominated by coaching centres, schools must innovate and broaden their educational offerings to ensure they remain valued not just as conduits to board results but as launchpads for the futures of students. It’s about striking a balance between academic rigor and holistic development, ensuring that schools remain the nurturing grounds for the leaders of tomorrow.

To read more on such trends that need to be called out and #un-trended, head to the April issue of our magazine here. 

The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) is set to launch the pilot for National Credit Framework for students in classes 6, 9, and 11, commencing in the 2024-25 academic session. This innovative step, aimed at fostering a seamless integration of school, higher, and vocational education, aligns with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020’s vision for a holistic and flexible educational system.

Under the new scheme, students will have the opportunity to earn credits through a variety of learning avenues, including classroom teaching, laboratory work, projects, sports, performing arts, NCC, social work, vocational education, and experiential learning. These credits will be accumulated in the Academic Bank of Credit (ABC), linked to the student’s APAAR ID and DigiLocker, ensuring a cohesive and secure record of their academic journey.

The introduction of the National Credit Framework marks a significant shift towards competency and outcome-based education, aiming to bridge the gap in achieving learning outcomes. It encourages students to engage in additional courses, programs, or projects beyond the mandatory 40 credits, offering them the flexibility to tailor their educational experiences to their interests and career aspirations.

To facilitate the smooth implementation of this framework, the CBSE has developed draft guidelines, which have been refined through multiple workshops and received approval from the Union Ministry of Education. “To further test, refine, and assess their effectiveness in real-world contexts, a pilot implementation of these guidelines has been planned in schools affiliated with CBSE,” stated a letter from the CBSE to school principals.

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Schools interested in participating in this groundbreaking pilot program have been invited to register their interest, marking a collaborative effort to enhance the educational offerings for students across the nation.

This initiative not only promises to transform the way students learn and earn qualifications but also paves the way for a more inclusive and flexible education system that caters to the diverse needs and aspirations of India’s youth. As the CBSE embarks on this ambitious journey, it sets the stage for a future where education is not just about accumulation of knowledge but the holistic development of every student.

(Source- PTI)

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In an increasingly competitive and interconnected world, the concept of marketing, once synonymous with businesses and industries, has found its place within the realm of education. As educational institutions vie for attention amidst a cacophony of voices, the need for strategic marketing and public relations (PR) efforts has become paramount. While the moral implications of marketing in education may spark debate, there is a compelling argument for incorporating marketing concepts into the educational curriculum, equipping students, teachers, and parents with the knowledge and skills to make informed decisions in an ever-evolving educational landscape.

Gone are the days when educational institutions relied solely on their academic prowess to attract students. In today’s digital age, where information is abundant and attention spans are fleeting, the ability to cut through the noise and communicate effectively has become a prerequisite for success. From crafting compelling brand narratives to leveraging social media platforms, educational institutions are embracing marketing strategies to enhance their visibility and appeal to prospective students and stakeholders.

However, the incorporation of marketing into the educational sector extends beyond mere promotional efforts. At its core, marketing is about understanding the needs and preferences of your target audience and delivering value accordingly. By teaching marketing concepts to students, educators empower them with critical thinking skills and an understanding of consumer behaviour, enabling them to navigate the complex marketplace of ideas and opportunities.

Moreover, marketing education goes beyond the classroom, extending its reach to teachers and parents alike. Educators, tasked with shaping the minds of future generations, can benefit from an understanding of marketing principles to engage students more effectively and create meaningful learning experiences. Similarly, parents, as key stakeholders in their children’s education, can make more informed decisions about school choice and educational resources by understanding the marketing strategies employed by educational institutions.

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Critics may argue that the commodification of education undermines its intrinsic value and fosters a culture of competition at the expense of collaboration. While these concerns are valid, it is essential to recognize that marketing, when approached ethically and responsibly, can serve as a powerful tool for positive change. By promoting transparency, accountability, and accessibility, marketing can help bridge the gap between educational institutions and the communities they serve, fostering a culture of trust and mutual respect.

The integration of marketing concepts into the educational curriculum represents a paradigm shift in how we approach education in the digital age. By equipping students, teachers, and parents with the knowledge and skills to navigate the complexities of the modern educational landscape, we empower them to make informed decisions and drive meaningful change. As we embrace the potential of marketing in education, let us remain mindful of its ethical implications and strive to harness its power for the greater good.

In the corridors of any classroom, teachers stand as pillars of guidance, tasked not only with imparting knowledge but also with nurturing the holistic development of their students. However, the onerous burden of managing a multitude of responsibilities within resource-constrained environments poses a formidable challenge, underscoring the urgent need for enhanced teacher training programmes.

At the heart of this challenge lies the staggering class sizes prevalent in Indian schools. With classrooms often overflowing with 35 or more students, the task of catering to diverse learning needs while maintaining order can seem insurmountable. Effective classroom management techniques, tailored to accommodate large cohorts, are essential for fostering a conducive learning environment and mitigating stress for both teachers and students.

Moreover, the complexity of the modern educational landscape necessitates a multifaceted approach to teaching. From addressing academic gaps to promoting socio-emotional well-being, educators are expected to wear multiple hats, often without adequate training or support. Enhanced teacher training programmes must equip educators with the pedagogical tools and strategies necessary to navigate this intricate web of responsibilities effectively.

Central to the need for better teacher training is the imperative of managing workload and stress. The relentless demands of completing the curriculum, crafting assessments, and addressing administrative tasks can take a toll on educators’ mental health and overall well-being. By providing teachers with comprehensive training in stress management techniques, time management strategies, and self-care practices, we can empower them to strike a balance between professional duties and personal wellness.

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Addressing the point of the topics that should be touched upon, these teacher training programmes must encompass modules on effective assessment practices and differentiated instruction. By equipping educators with the skills to design assessments that cater to diverse learning styles and abilities, we can ensure that every student receives the support they need to thrive academically. Similarly, training in differentiated instruction enables teachers to tailor their teaching methods to meet the individual needs of each student, fostering a more inclusive and equitable learning environment.

In addition to addressing immediate challenges, enhanced teacher training programmes must also focus on future-oriented skills and competencies. With rapid advancements in technology and pedagogy, educators must be prepared to adapt to changing educational landscapes and embrace innovative teaching methodologies. By providing training in digital literacy, collaborative learning, and project-based instruction, we can empower teachers to harness the potential of emerging technologies and create engaging learning experiences for their students.

Ultimately, the need for better teacher training is not merely a matter of professional development; it is a moral imperative. By investing in the growth and well-being of educators, we invest in the future of our nation. Because one teacher’s well-being will lead to the well being of those 35 other kids in a classroom.

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