In an era where academic excellence is no longer the sole measure of a school’s success, Gurukul the School in Ghaziabad has emerged as a trailblazer. Under the visionary leadership of Chairperson Sachin Vats, Gurukul has redefined traditional educational paradigms, focusing on holistic development and real-world readiness. The school’s innovative initiatives, including the Peer Educator Program “Wevolve” and in-house internships, reflect its commitment to nurturing life skills, mental well-being, and leadership qualities in students.
“At Gurukul, parents, students, and teachers collaborate to create a happy, supportive environment. This strong partnership fosters mutual respect, open communication, and shared goals, ensuring holistic growth and a positive learning experience for all,” shares Taniya Chakrabarty, a dedicated teacher at Gurukul.
A Revolutionary Approach: Moving Beyond House Systems
Traditionally, Indian schools have fostered competitiveness and camaraderie through house systems. However, Gurukul the School has chosen to chart a different course. Recognizing the evolving needs of students, the institution has introduced internships within the school premises. These internships aim to equip students with practical skills that bridge the gap between academic learning and real-world challenges. From managing events to assisting in administrative tasks, these roles provide students with hands-on experience, preparing them for future professional environments.
Sachin Vats explains, “Our objective is to make students not just academically competent but also emotionally intelligent and professionally adept. Through internships, we provide them a platform to learn accountability, teamwork, and leadership, all within a safe and nurturing environment.”
According to Parul Sharma, a faculty member at Gurukul, “Our school is indeed a wonderful place to work, where a collaborative spirit, supportive colleagues, and a shared passion for education come together to create a positive and inspiring work environment.” This sentiment underscores the culture of mentorship and growth that is embedded in every aspect of student learning at Gurukul.
Wevolve: A CBSE-Endorsed Peer Educator Program
Among Gurukul’s standout initiatives is “Wevolve,” a certified life skills and well-being ambassador program endorsed by CBSE. Wevolve is designed to address one of the most pressing issues in today’s educational landscape—mental health. The program identifies and trains peer educators who act as mentors and confidants for younger students.
The rationale behind Wevolve is rooted in the understanding that children often feel more comfortable sharing their thoughts and challenges with peers rather than with teachers or parents. These peer educators are trained in effective communication, empathy, and problem-solving, enabling them to provide emotional support and guidance.
Hridev Ray, a teacher at Gurukul, praises the program: “The WeVolve Peer Group Educator Program is an initiative that empowers young individuals to become educators and facilitators, promoting mental wellness, emotional intelligence, and life skills among their peers.”
Bridging the Communication Gap
One of the key strengths of Wevolve is its emphasis on improving communication. In today’s fast-paced world, effective communication is a vital skill that is often overlooked in traditional curricula. Through Wevolve, students are trained to listen actively, express themselves clearly, and provide constructive feedback.
This focus on communication has a dual impact. First, it enhances the interpersonal skills of peer educators, making them more effective in their roles. Second, it helps younger students articulate their thoughts and emotions, leading to better conflict resolution and improved self-esteem.
“By fostering open communication, we are helping our students develop into confident individuals who can navigate personal and professional relationships with ease,” adds Vats.
Holistic Development Through Real-Life Skills
Both the in-house internships and the Wevolve program are integral to Gurukul’s philosophy of holistic development. While the internships instill practical skills and professional etiquette, Wevolve addresses the emotional and psychological well-being of students. Together, these initiatives ensure that students are well-rounded individuals equipped to face the complexities of life.
Parents have lauded these initiatives, noting significant positive changes in their children. “My daughter has become more confident and empathetic since she joined the Wevolve program. She’s not just excelling academically but also growing as a compassionate individual,” shares a parent.
Endorsed by CBSE, Embraced by the Community
The endorsement of Wevolve by CBSE lends credibility to the program and highlights its potential as a model for other schools. Gurukul’s innovative approach has already garnered attention in educational circles, setting a benchmark for progressive education.
As schools across the country grapple with the challenges of preparing students for an uncertain future, Gurukul the School offers a blueprint for success. By prioritizing life skills, mental well-being, and practical experience, the institution is shaping the leaders of tomorrow.
In the words of Sachin Vats, “Education is not just about scoring marks; it’s about creating individuals who can contribute meaningfully to society. At Gurukul, we are committed to this vision, and our initiatives like Wevolve and in-house internships are steps in that direction.”
As Gurukul continues to innovate and inspire, it serves as a reminder that true education goes beyond textbooks—it empowers, enlightens, and evolves.
Also read: Gurukul The School: Setting new benchmarks of K-12 education excellence
