Suman Paudel is the Principal of Ankuram Academy, Chitwan. He has spent many years giving leadership to this institution and lifting it to national fame as the first and the only A-grade school in Chitwan. College Readers caught up with him and held a conversation about his educational experiences. Excepts:

Can you describe the vision and mission of your institution, and explain how you plan to achieve them?

At Ankuram Academy, we have set for ourselves a vision is to make this institution a premier education provider in the country, offering top-quality education to our students. We aim to be recognized as an institution that adheres to international standards, providing world-class education and creating global citizens.

Our mission is to bring this vision to life by establishing a well-equipped school that offers a conducive learning environment and follows best practices in education. We strive to provide comprehensive and holistic education to our students, nurturing their academic, physical, emotional, and social development.

We are proud to share that our efforts have been recognized, and we achieved the distinction of being the first and only A-grade school in Chitwan last year. This accomplishment is a testimony to our commitment to delivering excellence in education.

To achieve our vision and mission, we have implemented various strategies. Firstly, we prioritize the recruitment of highly qualified and dedicated teachers who are passionate about teaching and creating positives on the students' lives. Our teachers undergo continuous professional development to stay updated with the latest teaching methodologies and approaches. Secondly, we focus on creating a student-centered learning environment that fosters creativity, critical thinking and problem-solving skills. We provide state-of-the-art facilities, resources, and technology to enhance the learning experience of our students.

Furthermore, we actively encourage extracurricular activities and provide opportunities for our students to participate in national and international events. For example, our students will be attending the Global Entrepreneurship Boot Camp in Dubai this July, which will expose them to a global platform and foster an entrepreneurial mindset.

In addition, we believe in the importance of international exposure and collaboration. Recently, a group of our students traveled to an international school located in Kohlapur, Maharashtra, which is a significant milestone for us as it allows our students to explore and experience different educational environments.

Overall, we remain committed to continuous improvement and growth, both academically and holistically. By upholding our vision and mission, we aim to provide our students with the best possible education and prepare them to excel in an ever-evolving global landscape.

How has your experience as a principal evolved over the years, and what have been some of your most significant achievements?

As a principal, my experience has been that of continuous personal evolution over the years. I firmly believe that learning and updating our knowledge is essential for personal and professional growth, which has helped me excel in my role.

Over the past four years since the inception of Ankuram Academy, we have achieved several significant milestones. One of our most noteworthy achievements was our recognition as the first A-grade school in Chitwan last year. This recognition is a testimony to the hard work and dedication of our entire team, including teachers, staff members and students.

Recently, we have also been designated as the one and only center for TOEFL Junior and TOEFL Primary tests. These tests, developed by ETS, are designed to assess the English language proficiency of young learners who are studying English as a foreign language. This recognition further reinforces our commitment to providing quality education and promoting English language skills among our students.

Beyond these achievements, I believe that the overall growth and development of our students are the most significant markers of success. Witnessing the progress and accomplishments of our students, both academic and personal, gives me immense satisfaction as a principal. It is gratifying to see our students evolve into confident individuals with a strong foundation of knowledge, skills, and values.                                               

As a principal, I am committed to fostering a culture of continuous improvement and innovation within the school. We regularly review our curriculum, teaching methodologies, and infrastructure to ensure that we are providing the best possible educational experience for our students.

In conclusion, my journey as a principal has been one of a constant learning experience, and I am grateful for the opportunities to grow and make a positive impact on the lives of our students. The achievements of Ankuram Academy, such as attaining an A-grade status and becoming a designated TOEFL testing center, reflect our commitment to excellence in education. However, our ultimate success lies in the growth and accomplishments of our students, who are at the center of everything we do.

How do you prepare students to meet the demands of the 21st century workforce, and what skills and competencies do you believe are most essential for success?

At Ankuram Academy, we are committed to preparing our students to meet the demands of the 21st century workforce by equipping them with the necessary skills, competencies, and a holistic education that goes beyond traditional academic subjects. Building upon the collaborative and innovative culture I described earlier, we focus on developing the following essential skills and competencies:

Critical thinking and problem-solving: We emphasize the development of analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and the capacity to approach challenges with creativity and innovation. Our STEAM-based education approach encourages students to think critically, analyze information, and come up with innovative solutions.

Communication and collaboration: Effective communication and collaboration are vital skills in the modern workplace. We provide opportunities for students to engage in group projects, presentations, debates, and discussions that foster effective communication, teamwork, and collaboration skills. Through these experiences, students learn to express their ideas confidently, actively listen to others, and work together towards common goals.

Technological literacy: In today's digital era, proficiency in technology is essential. We integrate technology into our teaching and learning processes to familiarize students with various digital tools and platforms. We emphasize digital literacy, information literacy, and responsible and ethical use of technology.

Adaptability and resilience: The 21st-century workforce is constantly evolving, requiring individuals to be adaptable and resilient. We provide students with opportunities to navigate through changing situations, accept challenges, and learn from failures. Through experiential learning, project-based activities, and real-world simulations, we cultivate adaptability and resilience in our students.

Global and cultural awareness: In an increasingly interconnected world, global and cultural awareness is crucial. We expose our students to diverse perspectives, cultures, and global issues. Through international collaborations, exchange programs, and participation in global events, students gain a broader understanding of different cultures, develop empathy, and become global citizens.

Lifelong learning: We instill a love for learning and a growth mindset in our students. We emphasize the importance of continuous learning, self-motivation, and self-directed learning. By encouraging curiosity, exploration, and independent thinking, we nurture a lifelong passion for acquiring knowledge and skills.

By focusing on these skills and competencies, we aim to prepare our students to succeed in the 21st century job market. We believe that a holistic education that combines academic excellence, critical thinking, communication, adaptability, global awareness, and a love for learning will enable our students to thrive in any career they choose and contribute positively to society.

What would you suggest for the SEE result awaiting students for the wise selection of subjects and colleges?

Students who are in the process of choosing subjects and colleges while awaiting their SEE results should consider the following advice.

• Consider your interests, passions, and strengths to determine your interests and strengths. Consider subjects and disciplines that correspond to your natural abilities and preferences. This will enhance your academic experience and improve your performance in your selected field.
• Explore your profession options. Examine various career paths and the subjects pertinent to those careers. Consider the labor market and the outlook for various disciplines. Consider your long-term ambitions and objectives when choosing courses and institutions.
• Consult teachers and professionals for advice. Consult your instructors, subject specialists, and career advisors. They can provide valuable insight and direction regarding subject selection and appropriate schools.  Discuss your interests, academic performance, and professional aspirations with them in order to obtain sound advice.
• Look for schools with a solid reputation and accreditation. Check their track record of producing successful graduates and their ties to reputable universities and educational organizations. Consider factors such as the qualifications of the faculty, the infrastructure, the facilities, and the extracurricular opportunities.
• Examine the programs and courses offered by institutions: Investigate the programs and courses provided by different schools.  Consider whether they align with your selected subjects and professional objectives. Consider colleges that offer a wide variety of subjects and allow you to select courses according to your interests.
• Attend open houses and visit educational campuses: Whenever possible, visit the campuses of the schools you're considering. Participate in open houses, orientations, or virtual information sessions to familiarize yourself with the school's environment, interact with faculty and students, and learn more about the programs they offer.
• Solicit input from current students and graduates: Make contact with current students and alumni of institutions of interest. They can provide insight into the institution's academic experience, teaching quality, campus life, and career support. Their experiences can provide you with a realistic outlook on what to anticipate.
• Examine admission criteria and eligibility: Comprehend the admission requirements and eligibility criteria of the institutions under consideration. Ensure you meet the prerequisites for the courses or programs in which you're interested. Keep track of application deadlines and required documents for an application process that runs smoothly.
• Trust your inclinations and make a decision based on extensive research, self-reflection, and informed guidance. Consider all of the aforementioned considerations, assess the advantages and disadvantages of each option, and select the courses and institutions that resonate with you and align with your goals.

Remember that subject selection and institution selection are crucial decisions that can have a substantial effect on your educational journey and future career. Take time, acquire relevant information, and make a decision that aligns with your interests, skills, and goals.