In continuation with the ongoing ‘Students’ Corner’ series featuring student leaders across the country’s top education institutions, EducationWorld interviewed two student leaders of Sadhbhavana World School, Kozhikode — Navneeth Shiji and Manasi Ajith.

Navneeth Shiji is a Grade 12 (Commerce) student and School Pupil Leader at Sadbhavana World School. He is deeply interested in understanding financial systems and their impact on businesses and individuals. Beyond academics, he enjoys playing football and exploring film and media, pursuits that keep him active and creatively engaged. Navneeth aspires to pursue a Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) in Finance in Australia, aiming to build a strong foundation for a global career in the financial sector.

Manasi Ajith is a Grade 12 (Science) student of Sadbhavana World School. Deeply interested in understanding human behaviour, she aspires to build a career centred around working closely with people. An avid reader with a love for literature and poetry, she enjoys activities that encourage collaboration and self-expression. Manasi is particularly passionate about contributing meaningfully to the student community and hopes to pursue higher studies in a field that blends science with human interaction.

The Head Boy/Head Girl/Student Council representative is a coveted position. How do you carry out your responsibilities and studies together?

Navneeth: I manage both responsibilities through effective time management and clear priorities. I plan my schedule, ensuring I dedicate sufficient time to academics as well as student council duties. I stay organised and avoid procrastination so that neither area is compromised. I also believe in teamwork and sharing responsibilities, which helps in handling tasks efficiently. This balance allows me to stay consistent in my studies while actively fulfilling my role as a student representative.

Manasi: I believe balancing academics and responsibilities comes down to being mindful of how I use my time. If given the opportunity, I would approach both with sincerity, making sure I stay consistent in my studies while also being present and responsible in my role. I feel that when something matters to you, you naturally learn to give it the time and attention it deserves

Mention the challenges that come alongside this role.

Navneeth: One of the key challenges is balancing academic responsibilities with the demands of the role, especially during exams or busy school periods. Another challenge is representing the voices of all students fairly while making decisions that benefit the entire school. It can also be challenging to manage time effectively and handle responsibilities under pressure. However, I see these challenges as opportunities to improve my leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills.

Manasi: One of the biggest challenges would be understanding different perspectives and making decisions that are fair to everyone. There may also be times when balancing schoolwork and responsibilities feels overwhelming. But I see these moments as learning experiences that help build patience, maturity, and a better sense of responsibility.

Fulfilling your responsibilities as the Head Boy/Head Girl/Student Council representative has its pros and cons. Friends have their umpteen demands on you. How do you manage the same?

Navneeth: While it’s natural for friends to have expectations, I believe it’s important to remain fair and responsible in this role. I listen to their concerns, but I make decisions based on what is best for the entire student body rather than personal relationships. Setting clear boundaries and communicating honestly helps manage expectations. This way, I can maintain both my friendships and my integrity as a student representative.

Manasi: If I am given this responsibility, I understand that friends may approach me with their expectations. I would try to listen to them with understanding, but at the same time make sure my decisions are fair and not influenced by personal bias. I believe being honest and approachable can help maintain both trust and balance.

How much time do you spend on social media daily? Do you find it distracting?

Navneeth: I spend around 2–3 hours on social media daily. While it can sometimes be distracting, I try to use it mindfully and ensure that it does not interfere with my studies or responsibilities.

Manasi: I spend around 1–2 hours on social media daily. While it can sometimes become a distraction, I try to stay aware of how I use it and make sure it doesn’t affect my focus on studies or other responsibilities.

Have you understood the takeaways of the National Education Policy 2020?

Navneeth: Yes, I have understood the key takeaways of the National Education Policy 2020. It focuses on holistic and flexible learning, encouraging critical thinking, skill development, and multidisciplinary education. It also emphasizes reducing rote learning, promoting conceptual understanding, and integrating technology into education. Overall, the policy aims to make education more practical, inclusive, and aligned with the needs of the modern world.

Manasi: Yes, I have a basic understanding of the National Education Policy 2020. I appreciate how it focuses on holistic learning, flexibility, and moving beyond rote learning. It encourages students to explore their interests and develop skills that are useful in real life.

Do you think the post of Head Boy/Head Girl/Student Council representative helps you develop your soft skills and makes you ready for life after school too?

Navneeth: Yes, I believe this role plays a significant part in developing soft skills and preparing me for life beyond school. It helps build leadership, communication, teamwork, and decision-making abilities. Handling responsibilities, interacting with students and teachers, and managing challenges also improve confidence and problem-solving skills. These experiences are valuable and directly applicable to future academic and professional environments.

Manasi: Yes, I feel that being part of a student leadership role can help in personal growth. It allows students to become more confident, learn how to communicate better, and understand the importance of working with others. It also helps in becoming more responsible and aware, which is important for life beyond school.

Also read: Students’ Corner: Pranjal Kayada, Head Boy, Sarala Birla Academy