Jigme Sherpa, the Principal of Namaste Academy, Rupandehi has spent years, lending educational and managerial leadership to the institutions. The institution is now a highly reputed education centre in the region, is a much sought-after location for the seekers of quality education. Remarkably, the school was named the best private school in Tilottma Municipality, Rupandehi. College Readers had a short conversation with Mr. Sherpa regarding his experiences and visions in the educational sector. Excerpts.

What inspired you to pursue a career in education, and how did you become a school principal?

While pursuing my bachelor's degree, I came across an NGO called Teach for Nepal. I quickly discovered that the quality of education is not very promising and that competent leaders are needed to alter it. After completing my undergraduate studies through Teach for Nepal's Fellowship program, I started my career in this field since I regarded myself as one of the change-agents.

After working in the field of education for a while in a wide range of positions starting with Teaching, I eventually accepted the leadership position in a school after the pandemic where young people like me were put to the test to lead the school given the never-before-seen issues schools were facing.

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

"To educate and instruct children and young people so they leave Namaste Academy with a rounded liberal education based upon British values and attitudes," is the mission statement of Namaste Academy. As a member of the British Education Group, we think that students should be given the necessary knowledge, skills, and attitude to enable them to succeed beyond the confines of our school, province, and even the nation. The principles upheld by Namaste Academy include curiosity, innovation, responsibility, and compassion.

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

From having to lead the school from every direction to to directly educating children in classrooms, the last two years as a principal have been truly amazing. It implies that all principals' responsibilities have changed, with the majority of their efforts focused on encouraging pupils to be innovative and creative so that they may persevere in challenging situations. Therefore, the majority of my recent experiences as a principal have been focused on making sure kids have access to a space where they can express their creativity and innovation while also developing strong emotional intelligence so they are able to manage their emotions under pressure.

Regarding some of the most notable accomplishments, Tilottama Municipality recognized Namaste Academy as the best private school in the municipality. With our students representing Nepal in martial arts competitions, the academy has also been able to receive recognition on a national and international level. Our students have even won 6 gold, 1 silver medal, and two bronze medals from International Karate Championship in Malaysia and Sri Lanka. Our Plus 2 students were able to shine the brightest in province level debate competition. Along with that, our school has introduced some fresh innovations with activities like the Creative Fest, Literature Fest, etc. that are entirely led by students.

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?

Because of the VUCA (volatile, uncertain, complex, and ambiguous) nature of the world we live in, it is impossible to predict which specific abilities will be valued most in the future. Many challenging talents may just be obsolete when AI takes care of practically everything.

Students are given opportunities and challenges that will help them develop their resilience, test their leadership and following skills, collaborate empathetically with the group, and persevere in the face of the most trying circumstances because we, as an institution, understand that students must not only be able to adapt in this world but also have the ability to accept and excel no matter what. Our Duke of Edinburg Awards Program, possibilities for event management and participation, as well as a number of workshops and programs, would greatly aid in developing the necessary skills and competencies. 

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

I would advise them to conduct a thorough self-evaluation of their weaknesses and talents and enlist the help of their professors, parents, and seniors to determine which courses and colleges will best meet their needs.

It is usually preferable to select a college where the students are recognized for their uniqueness and individuality and where the faculty members are sensitive to their needs.

Why do the students choose your school for plus-two study?

Here at Namaste Academy, we strive to give top services to Plus two students in the Rupandehi area at reasonable costs. Our motto is "Quality and Affordability." Faculty and administration at our school respect the individuality of every pupil and are attentive to their needs. We understand that Plus 2 students require attention in both academic and extracurricular endeavours because the greatest institutions in the world don't only look at students' ability in one area. In order to do this, we want to develop leaders who can make their presence felt in the best classrooms all over the world.