Transforming Education: An Exclusive Interview with Ms. Rohini Aima, Principal of Jammu Sanskriti School
An exclusive interview with Ms. Rohini Aima, the Principal cum Vice-Chairperson of Jammu Sanskriti School, Jammu
By D.Raghavendra for ET TECH X, September 29, 2024
Welcome to ET TECH X. Today, we have the privilege of speaking with Ms. Rohini Aima, the Principal cum Vice-Chairperson of Jammu Sanskriti School, Jammu. With over 38 years of experience in the education sector, Ms. Aima has dedicated her career to fostering high-quality education and holistic development for students.
As the founder of Jammu Sanskriti School, a senior secondary CBSE institution, she has been instrumental in shaping its vision and mission. Her leadership has led to the school's recognition as one of the top educational institutions in India, celebrated for its commitment to social activism and educational excellence.
Ms. Aima is a recognized CBSE Master Trainer for the School Health & Wellness Programme and has contributed significantly as a resource person and Deputy District Training Coordinator for CBSE. She holds numerous accolades, including the prestigious "Education Leader of the Year 2022" and "Skill Ambassador of Skill Bharat Samman 2023."
A passionate advocate for experiential learning and inclusive education, Ms. Aima continually innovates teaching methodologies to make learning engaging and relevant to global trends. Under her guidance, Jammu Sanskriti School has earned accolades for its quality of education and community impact.
We look forward to gaining insights from her extensive experience and vision for the future of education. Welcome, Ms. Aima!
Q. What inspired you to pursue a career in education, and what motivated you to take on the role of a school principal?
A. I am a firm believer in leveraging innovative technology for educational purposes. The motivation to pursue a career in education and take on the role of a school principal comes from a desire to enhance the learning experience for students by providing them with the necessary tools, hardware, and technical support to facilitate this endeavor.
Q. How do you integrate technology into the curriculum to enhance teaching and learning outcomes in your school?
A. We integrate technology into the curriculum by using various tools and techniques in day to day teaching. Microsoft teams and Google space are some of the platforms which allows students to explore concepts and topics through interactive experiences instead of just reading about them. This includes virtually visiting historical sites and exploring experiments to enhance their understanding. Technology also helps in visualizing complex concepts that are difficult to replicate in traditional classrooms, fostering global and cultural awareness, and facilitating collaborative learning experiences. We also have interactive panels in classes loaded with Tata Class Edge Programs.
Q. Can you describe your leadership style and how it influences the culture and climate of your school?
A. My leadership style leans on vision and direction. We implement several strategies to create a dynamic environment where students and teachers’ achievements are appreciated, and they thrive together. I foster a positive culture of creativity, opportunities in the organization, ensuring that continuous professional growth for teachers is encouraged and that a sense of community and belonging is cultivated.
Q. In what ways do you ensure that digital literacy is prioritized among students and faculty members?
A. Digital literacy is prioritized by providing students and faculty with access to the latest tools, hardware, and technical support. We ensure that everyone is well-equipped to navigate the digital landscape, facilitating immersive, interactive, and personalized learning experiences that cater to the diverse needs of our students. We have successfully implemented virtual reality tools to create visualizations that are difficult to replicate in traditional classrooms. These tools have allowed students to explore complex concepts, experience local norms and cultural immersions, and engage in collaborative learning, sparking curiosity and a lifelong love for learning.
Q. Can you share examples of innovative teaching and learning practices that have been successful in your school under your leadership?
A. Under my leadership at Jammu Sanskriti School, we have introduced several innovative practices. Our Library on Wheels promotes reading in rural areas by bringing books directly to communities. We’ve also adopted the Green School concept, integrating eco-friendly practices into our curriculum. Additionally, our Innovation Ambassador Program empowers teachers to foster creativity and critical thinking in students. We prioritize Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in lesson plans, ensuring students learn to be socially and environmentally responsible. Lastly, our internship program offers Class 12th students real-world experience, aligning with the National Education Policy 2020.
Q. How do you collaborate with teachers, staff, and parents to create a supportive and inclusive learning environment for all students?
A. Collaboration is key to creating a supportive and inclusive learning environment. We foster a sense of community and belonging for all students, teachers, and stakeholders through open communication, regular interactions, and opportunities to participate in school activities. We maintain a shared sense of purpose and use various mediums such as social media, newsletters, and emails to keep everyone informed about school activities and progress. Parents as ambassadors of school participate in various events, activities and as guest speakers to interact with students.
Q. How do you ensure that your school remains responsive to the evolving needs of students and the broader educational landscape?
A. We remain responsive to the evolving needs of students and the educational landscape by continuously updating our strategies and tools. We delegate tasks, empower our team to make decisions, and foster a collaborative work environment that supports innovation and adaptability.
Q. Looking ahead, what do you see as the most pressing challenges and opportunities for education, and how do you plan to navigate them as a school principal?
A. The most pressing challenges and opportunities in education involve keeping up with technological advancements and ensuring that students are prepared for a rapidly changing world. As a school principal, I plan to navigate these challenges by continuing to integrate technology into our curriculum, fostering a culture of innovation, and providing students and staff with the skills they need to succeed in the future.
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