By Sunil Sonker
Mussoorie, 23 Aug: With changing times, preparations are underway to emphasise everything from the use of technology in school education to the holistic development of students. A comprehensive discussion was held during the Dehradun cluster-level principals’ conference—organised at Saraswati Vidya Mandir, New Yamuna Colony, Dakpathar—covering topics such as the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in classroom teaching, English communication skills, sports, science and mathematics, moral values (sanskars), and cultural activities. Several important decisions regarding activities for the upcoming academic session were made during the meeting.
Principals from 12 schools in the district participated in the meeting, which was presided over by Dehradun Cluster Head Dr Manoj Rayal. Special emphasis was placed on improving academic standards and fostering leadership qualities, moral values, discipline, and creativity among students. Acknowledging the growing influence of technology, the meeting also highlighted the need to prepare teachers to meet the demands of the modern era. A consensus was reached to organise cluster-level training sessions on ‘Use of AI in Classroom Teaching,’ ‘Spoken English,’ and ‘Formulation of Five-Step Lesson Plans’ (Panchpadiya Path Yojana). A principal was also selected for the upcoming training proposed in Noida. Programmes were finalised to provide a platform for showcasing students’ sports talent alongside their intellectual capabilities. A Science and Mathematics Fair is scheduled for 25 and 26 August at Saraswati Vidya Mandir, Manduwala, while an athletics competition will be held on 29 and 30 August at Saraswati Vidya Mandir, Dhalipur. Following discussions on logistical arrangements and the number of participants, participation in these events was made mandatory for all schools. It was also decided to organise grand events across all towns on 25 September 2026, to mark the 150th anniversary of the National Song.
Additionally, plans were discussed to involve more schools and students in the ‘Sanskriti Bodh’ (Cultural Awareness) examination and related projects. A consensus was reached to organise inspiring programmes in schools to mark the 650th birth anniversary of Sant Ravidas.
Reviews were conducted regarding the budget, auditing, timely remittance of provincial funds, and the operation of effective ‘Sanskar Kendras’ to strengthen school management. Emphasis was placed on effectively addressing all aspects of the ‘Shishu Vatika’ (early childhood education) programme and implementing the key points discussed during the meeting within the schools. It was decided to accelerate the processes of alumni registration and the formation of alumni councils. Additionally, the current student enrolment was reviewed, with discussions focusing on increasing student numbers and enhancing their activities. Emphasis was placed on forming school bands comprising 28 students and ensuring regular practice sessions as part of the Amrit Mahotsav celebrations.
A decision was also taken to organise essay-writing competitions for both students and the teaching staff. Positive discussions were held regarding the framework and preparations for the cluster-level cultural festival.
Principals and local teachers including Anusuya Jakhmola, Ved Prakash Sharma, Kali Ram Bhatt, Ashutosh Sharma, Shishupal Rawat, Mahtab Gusain, Mahesh Gupta, Rakesh Medola, Deepa Bisht, and Dalveer Thapli—attended the meeting. The primary objective of the decisions taken was to prepare students holistically—encompassing technology, education, sports, values, culture, and leadership—rather than limiting them solely to the academic curriculum.
