An interview with Dr. Sangeeta Bhatia, Principal of KIIT World School, Delhi
In this interview, we sit down with Dr. Sangeeta Bhatia, the esteemed Principal of KIIT World School in Delhi.
With a passion for innovative education and holistic development, Dr. Bhatia shares her insights on fostering a nurturing learning environment and the importance of empowering students to become lifelong learners. Her leadership has significantly transformed the school, making it a beacon of excellence in education.
Can you share your journey in education and what led you to become the Principal of KIIT World School?
Dr. Sangeeta Bhatia: My journey in education spans over four decades, starting as a passionate teacher and moving into leadership roles. Education has always been a calling for me, not just a profession.
My philosophy revolves around creating environments that encourage curiosity, innovation, and holistic growth. I’ve always been driven by the idea that education can transform lives, and at KIIT World School, Pitampura, Delhi, we have embraced this approach.
Becoming the Principal here felt like a natural step in my journey, as it aligned with my vision of blending academic excellence with innovation and personal development.
KIIT World School is known for its innovation-driven approach. Can you elaborate on some specific programs or initiatives that exemplify this?
Dr. Sangeeta Bhatia: At KIIT, we have several innovative programs designed to enrich student learning. Our Jaadui Grid integrates co-curricular activities with academics, encouraging interdisciplinary learning. Project NIRMAAN empowers students through peer education in oratory, STEM, and theatrical skills.
Our Centre for Innovation in Teaching and Learning (CITL) helps teachers stay updated on the latest teaching practices, while Reflective Journaling through Almanac encourages students to actively reflect on their learning journey. These programs foster creativity and ensure students are prepared for the future.
What steps does KIIT World School take to ensure a balanced curriculum that fosters both academic excellence and personal development?
Dr. Sangeeta Bhatia: We believe in nurturing the whole child—intellectually, emotionally, and socially. Our curriculum balances core academic subjects with arts, sports, and life skills.
Through initiatives like Action Research on Teacher Competencies for NEP 2020 Outcomes and the CFFC (Creative Forum For Change), we ensure that both students and teachers are growing continuously.
We emphasize experiential learning, project-based assessments, and reflective practices to build strong, independent learners who are capable of adapting to different challenges.
How does the school encourage student participation in extracurricular activities, and why do you believe these are important?
Dr. Sangeeta Bhatia: Extracurricular activities are a critical part of education at KIIT. We offer a wide range of activities, from sports to cultural events, to cater to varied interests.
Project NIRMAAN for instance, encourages students to participate in activities that build their oratory, STEM, and theatrical skills. These experiences develop life skills like teamwork, leadership, and time management, which are crucial for success in any field. I believe that such involvement builds confidence and helps students discover and pursue their passions beyond academics.
How does the school collaborate with other institutions or organizations to enhance educational opportunities for students?
Dr. Sangeeta Bhatia: We have established partnerships with various organisations to expand our students’ horizons.
Our collaboration with partner schools across the globe allows students to participate in many programs and competitions, such as Atal Innovation Mission’s ATL initiatives and World Creativity and Innovation Day.
These collaborations not only provide exposure to global best practices but also offer opportunities for experiential learning, helping students apply their knowledge to real life problems.
We also engage with higher education institutions to create awareness and accord opportunities for advanced learning and career readiness.
How do you see the role of education evolving in the coming years, and what challenges do you foresee?
Dr. Sangeeta Bhatia: Education is rapidly evolving, especially with the rise of technology. In the coming years, I see education becoming more personalised, interdisciplinary, and technology-driven.
The biggest challenge will be maintaining a balance between traditional perceived values and the integration of modern tools.
Another key challenge is preparing students for careers that don’t yet exist, requiring us to focus more on teaching critical thinking, adaptability, and emotional intelligence.
If you could share one piece of advice with aspiring educators, what would it be?
Dr. Sangeeta Bhatia: My advice would be to stay curious and never stop learning. Teaching is as much about evolving as it is about imparting knowledge.
Be open to new ideas, listen to your students, and continuously adapt to their needs. Above all, maintain your passion for education, as it’s this passion that truly inspires students to learn and grow.
Dr. Bhatia’s commitment to educational excellence and student empowerment is truly inspiring. Her vision for nurturing young minds not only shapes the future of KIIT World School but also sets a benchmark for educational practices in Delhi and beyond.
As she continues to lead with purpose, her insights remind us of the vital role educators play in shaping the leaders of tomorrow.
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