In a landmark initiative, Cambridge Education Lab, organised a transformative Executive Leadership Conference for Indian School Leaders at the University of Cambridge, UK. The week-long program, held from 2nd to 9th July 2023 at Fitzwilliam College, University of Cambridge, brought together over 30 school owners from more than 10 Indian states, fostering collaboration and innovation.
Fostering Global Academic Collaboration:
The central theme of the conference was to explore innovative avenues for Indian school owners to contribute to the transformation of the Indian education system. The CEL team partnered with many academics and researchers at University of Cambridge and curated a dynamic programme, facilitating high-quality interactions between globally renowned academics and Indian educators. The delegation was hosted at Fitzwilliam College, providing an enriching environment for learning and collaboration.
Academic Sessions and School Visits:
The programme featured guest lectures by senior academics and researchers covering diverse topics such as implementing Lesson Study, building strategic frameworks, digitising learning, challenges in staff training, the role of play in schools, rhetoric of leadership, education in a globalised era, and delivering quality education through frugal innovation. The delegation also engaged with local schools, interacting with teachers and staff to witness firsthand, the outcomes of innovative learning methodologies.
A visit to the Cambridge Assessment Centre offered insights into the process of getting schools affiliated with Cambridge. Beyond academics, the program incorporated leisure activities, including a formal dinner at a Cambridge college, a daytime punting trip on the Cam river, and a visit to London and museums.
Culmination with Awards and Insights:
The programme's grand finale included an award ceremony in collaboration with the National Independent School Alliance (NISA), recognising high-achieving schools in India on an international platform. Preceding the ceremony was a "Manthan" session where accomplished educators shared insights on the Indian education system.
Dr. Kulbhushan Sharma, President of NISA, outlined the vision to impact one million students and engage one lakh Indian educators positively in the next five years. Distinguished speakers like Dr. Anirudh Gupta, Dr. Chinu Agrawal, Evani Mannur, Dr. Paranjyothi, Dr. Prasad Rao, and Dr. Charles Roddie addressed crucial aspects of education, mental health awareness, international collaboration, and quality enhancement through affordable innovations.
Marvin Fernandes, Co-Director at the Centre for India and Global Business at Cambridge Judge Business School, proposed ideas for Indian education, including the implementation of renowned professor Dr. Jaideep Prabhu's Jugaad innovation.
In his closing note, Suyash Bhatt emphasized the urgency of transforming the education system, particularly in tier 2 and tier 3 cities of India, for a substantial impact on the global economy.
Awards and Networking Dinner:
The programme concluded with a dignitary award ceremony and a networking dinner at Fitzwilliam College, fostering connections and celebrating the success of an initiative that promises to shape the future of Indian education through global collaboration and innovation.