Advancing Dr. Jagdish Gandhi’s legacy of educational excellence at the core - Prof. Geeta Gandhi Kingdon
Carrying forward the legacy of CMS patron, Dr. Jagdish Gandhi is a humongous task and the mission to take his legacy forward now rests with his daughter, Dr. Geeta Gandhi Kingdon. Dr. Kingdon is the President and Manager of City Montessori School Society. Internationally she boasts of being Professor at Institute of Education, University College London (UCL) holding the prestigious Chair of ‘Education Economics and International Development’.
A BSc (Honours) in Economics from the London School of Economics and a D.Phil in Development Economics from the University Oxford in a special interview, she says that she is dedicated to advancing Dr. Jagdish Gandhi's legacy by prioritizing peace, understanding, and educational excellence.
How do you see the legacy of Dr Gandhi as a Gandhian and education reformer?
Dr. Jagdish Gandhi's legacy is profound and far-reaching as both a Gandhian and an education reformer. He embodies Gandhi's principles of non-violence, truth, and social justice, promoting peace education and compassion within City Montessori School (CMS) and beyond. As an education reformer, his transformative approach emphasizes holistic development and character building. By founding CMS, the world's largest school in a single city, he demonstrates education's power to uplift communities. His innovative practices rooted in Montessori principles have inspired educators globally. Dr. Gandhi's focus on global citizenship and peace education aims to foster responsibility towards humanity and the planet. Overall, his legacy is one of inspiration, empowerment, and social transformation, impacting generations worldwide.
Why do you think Dr Gandhi will always be remembered as someone who tirelessly championed the cause of global peace?
Dr. Gandhi's legacy is marked by his unwavering commitment to global peace. He founded City Montessori School (CMS), prioritizing peace education to instill values of tolerance and cooperation in students. Through CMS and international peace conferences like the International Conference of Chief Justices of the World, he fostered dialogue and collaboration on pressing global issues. Inspired by Gandhian principles, Dr. Gandhi advocated for non-violence and conflict resolution through dialogue, earning recognition such as the UNESCO Prize for Peace Education and the Gandhi-King Award for Nonviolence. His lifelong dedication to promoting peace through education and advocacy cements his remembrance as a visionary and tireless advocate for a more harmonious and just world.
How do you plan to carry forward Dr Gandhi’s legacy as you now lead the institution?
As the new leader of City Montessori School (CMS), I am dedicated to advancing Dr. Gandhi's legacy by prioritizing peace, understanding, and educational excellence. Key strategies include integrating peace education into the curriculum, promoting tolerance and non-violent conflict resolution, and fostering innovation through technology and new initiatives. Strengthening international partnerships will enhance global understanding, while empowering students to enact positive change locally and globally. Additionally, we'll honour Dr Gandhi's legacy through commemorative events and initiatives. By upholding his values, fostering innovation, nurturing partnerships, empowering students, and commemorating his legacy, CMS will continue to excel in education and champion peace and unity.
City Montessori School (CMS) recognizes the importance of leveraging technology and modern pedagogy to prepare students as future leaders. Here are some ways CMS is utilizing technology and innovative teaching methods to nurture leadership skills:
1. Digital Learning Platforms: CMS incorporates digital learning platforms and educational software to enhance student’s learning ironingCity Montessori School (CMS) prioritizes technology and modern pedagogy to nurture future leaders. Strategies include:
1. Digital Learning Platforms: Integrating interactive tools and adaptive assessments for personalized learning.
2. Blended Learning Approach: Combining traditional teaching with online resources for independent learning.
3. Project-Based Learning (PBL): Encouraging collaboration and problem-solving through hands-on projects.
4. STEM Education: Emphasizing science, technology, engineering, and math through robotics and coding.
5. Leadership Development Programs: Offering activities like student councils and community service to cultivate leadership skills.
6. Teacher Training: Investing in teacher development to ensure effective integration of technology and modern methods.
These initiatives prepare students to navigate the modern world, fostering leadership, innovation, and positive societal contributions.
Given the diverse academic portfolio that you are known for, how do you touch lives of the people at the grassroots level?
Both individually and as an institution of note?
City Montessori School (CMS) is committed to touching lives at the grassroots level through both individual and institutional efforts. Individually, our staff and students engage in community outreach, volunteering for initiatives like educational workshops and environmental projects. Collectively, CMS implements programs such as scholarships for marginalized students and partnerships with local organizations to provide resources and infrastructure support. These efforts aim to directly address the needs of the community, ensuring that education and opportunity are accessible to all. By combining individual dedication with institutional support, CMS endeavors to make a meaningful and lasting impact on the lives of people at the grassroots level, fostering positive change within our society.
What makes your students tick at the global level given that they often shine on world stage?
City Montessori School (CMS) students excel globally due to its holistic education approach, emphasizing talents, character, and diverse skills. Global citizenship education instills responsibility towards humanity and the planet through Model United Nations and cultural exchanges. Exposure to diversity fosters open-mindedness and empathy, crucial for navigating global contexts. CMS promotes critical thinking and innovation, nurturing an entrepreneurial mind-set. High-quality teaching supports students' academic and personal growth, while leadership opportunities and extracurricular activities allow them to showcase talents. CMS's comprehensive approach prepares students to succeed on the global stage, making them stand out for their well-roundedness, cross-cultural competence, and readiness to tackle complex challenges.
How are your promoting co-curricular and sports in CMS?
City Montessori School (CMS) prioritizes co-curricular activities and sports to nurture talents, teamwork, and physical fitness among students. CMS offers diverse programs like music, art, debate, and robotics, allowing students to explore interests and express creativity. Various clubs and societies provide opportunities for specific interests and hobbies, fostering connections and meaningful extracurricular involvement. CMS emphasizes sports and physical education, offering activities like cricket, football, and yoga to promote healthy lifestyles. State-of-the-art facilities support athletic pursuits, including playgrounds, gyms, and swimming pools. Qualified coaches provide expert guidance and training to enhance students' performance in various sports. CMS participates in inter-school competitions locally and nationally, allowing students to showcase talents and build camaraderie. Through these initiatives, CMS promotes holistic development, teamwork, and physical well-being, enriching the educational experience and fostering personal growth among students.CMS organizes international sports events for students across the globe, namely ISCPL for cricket and Concorde for football.
When you look back, how do you explain the journey of CMS from 5 students to a movement of sorts in academics?
City Montessori School's (CMS) remarkable journey from modest beginnings to educational prominence stems from several critical factors. Visionary leadership by founders Dr. Jagdish Gandhi and Dr. Bharti Gandhi laid the foundation for CMS's mission of accessible, high-quality education. The institution's commitment to academic excellence, embracing the Montessori philosophy alongside modern teaching methods, fosters dynamic learning environments. CMS prioritizes holistic student development through diverse co-curricular activities, promoting inclusivity and mutual respect within its community. Globally, CMS's initiatives in peace education and cross-cultural understanding elevate its impact, reflecting its commitment to shaping future leaders. Continual innovation, including technological integration and program expansion, keeps CMS at the forefront of educational advancement. To sum it up, CMS's journey underscores the transformative potential of visionary leadership, educational excellence, holistic development, inclusivity, global outreach, and innovation in shaping a brighter future.
What is CMS Vision 2025 and its objectives?
Technology and rapid rise of AI, Globalism and climate crisis call for world citizens who will solve the problems of our planet. Since, CMS is a learning organisation, we wish to nurture future ready students who are active participants in their own learning, are adaptable and equipped to work in a shifting industry, who as world citizens are connected with real world issues and are proficient in communication, collaboration and creativity. We are arming and working towards a system where all stakeholders strive to develop as individuals and as an organisation. Professional development opportunities are offered to all stakeholders. Reflection continuous improvement of process, capacity building, usage of data and facts to make informed organization discussions are helping us in making our systems effective and meaningful.
Women play a prominent role at different levels in CMS as an institution? What makes women empowerment at the core of your working?
City Montessori School (CMS) prioritizes women's empowerment, evident through several key initiatives. Firstly, CMS actively promotes women to leadership positions, ensuring gender diversity and inclusivity in decision-making roles. Additionally, the school empowers female educators through professional development opportunities and mentorship programs, recognizing their contributions to education. CMS fosters a supportive work environment valuing all employees' contributions regardless of gender. Moreover, the institution advocates gender equality in education, challenging stereotypes and providing equal opportunities for female students. CMS extends its impact through broader advocacy efforts for women's rights in the community. Finally, female leaders and educators within CMS serve as role models and mentors, inspiring students to pursue their aspirations. Overall, CMS's commitment to women's empowerment aligns with its values of equality and social justice, contributing to a more equitable society.
How do you see the growing need for industry academia interface at the school level?
Recognizing the growing need for industry-academia collaboration at the school level, several key factors underscore its significance. Firstly, schools must ensure the relevance of education by aligning curricula with real-world skills’ demand in the job market. Collaboration with industries provides students with invaluable experiential learning opportunities through internships and hands-on projects, bridging the gap between theory and practice. Furthermore, such partnerships facilitate professional development for teachers, keeping them abreast of industry trends and technologies. Moreover, industry-academia collaborations foster a culture of innovation and research within schools, enabling students and educators to address real-world challenges. Additionally, these collaborations open pathways to employment and entrepreneurship for students, offering job placements, mentorship programs, and networking opportunities. Ultimately, this interface enhances education's relevance, enriches learning experiences, fosters innovation, and facilitates seamless transitions for students into the workforce or entrepreneurship endeavors.
Your message to the public?
My message to the public is one of hope, unity, and resilience.
In these uncertain times, it's essential to remember that we are stronger together. Let's embrace compassion, empathy, and understanding as we navigate the challenges ahead. Let's support one another, lift each other up, and work towards building a more inclusive and equitable society for all.
Together, we can overcome adversity, forge a brighter future, and create positive change in our communities and beyond. Let's hold onto hope, stay united, and keep moving forward with determination and resilience.
Remember, even in the darkest of times, there is always light. Let's shine brightly together.
Thank you, and let's continue to strive for a better tomorrow.
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