In this episode of ChildrenPlus Connects, we had the pleasure of speaking with Mr. Pramod Sharma, a renowned educator with over 50 years of experience. As the former Principal of Mayo College, Ajmer, and the current Vice President of Genesis Global School, Noida, Mr. Sharma offers valuable insights on education and its impact on mental wellbeing.
Genesis Global School: A Focus on Holistic Development
Mr. Sharma discussed the founding vision of Genesis Global School, emphasizing its commitment to providing diverse opportunities for students to explore their interests and talents. With 189 sports disciplines and a comprehensive curriculum, the school fosters holistic development, boosting students’ confidence and overall wellbeing.
Beyond Academics: Nutrition and the Parent-Child Program
Genesis Global School recognizes the crucial role of nutrition in a child’s development. Mr. Sharma highlighted the school’s dedication to providing nutritious meals, starting with a balanced breakfast, to fuel students’ physical and mental growth.
He also shed light on the unique Parent-Child Program designed for children under two and a half years old. This program offers a space for parents and children to engage in social activities, music, and art, fostering early learning and bonding.
Mental Health in School Children: Addressing Modern Challenges
Reflecting on his extensive experience, Mr. Sharma observed a growing awareness of mental health in recent years, particularly post-COVID-19. He addressed the challenges posed by increased screen time, social media pressures, and the impact of reduced social interaction during the pandemic.
Practical Advice for Parents: Navigating the Digital Age
Mr. Sharma offered practical advice for parents, stressing the importance of limiting screen time and establishing clear boundaries for technology use. He emphasized the need for parental guidance in navigating the digital world and ensuring healthy tech habits.
Boarding School vs. Day School: Relevance and Benefits
Mr. Sharma discussed the continued relevance of boarding schools in today’s world. He believes that boarding schools provide a structured environment that can help mitigate challenges like excessive screen time and foster social skills, independence, and resilience.
Inclusivity in Schools: Bridging the Gap Between Rhetoric and Practice
While many schools champion inclusivity, Mr. Sharma acknowledged the gap between intention and implementation. He shared how Genesis Global School collaborates with a neighboring school for children with severe disabilities, providing specialized support and integrating students into mainstream classrooms whenever possible.
The Role of Sports in Mental Wellbeing
Mr. Sharma highlighted the school’s investment in state-of-the-art sports facilities to provide students with opportunities to excel in various disciplines. He emphasized the strong link between physical activity, resilience, and mental wellbeing.
Empathy Building: Cultivating Compassion and Social Responsibility
Genesis Global School actively promotes empathy and compassion through initiatives where students interact with NGOs and communities in need. Mr. Sharma shared an inspiring anecdote of students taking action to improve the conditions in a government school, demonstrating the power of empathy and social responsibility.
Conclusion: Mental Strength as a Foundation for Wellbeing
Mr. Sharma concluded by emphasizing the importance of mental strength as a cornerstone of overall mental health. By fostering empathy, resilience, and a sense of social responsibility, schools can play a vital role in nurturing the wellbeing of future generations.
ChildrenPlus: Dedicated to Supporting Child and Youth Mental Health in Noida
ChildrenPlus is committed to supporting the mental health and wellbeing of children and adolescents in Noida and the surrounding areas. Contact us today or visit our website to learn more about our services.