Refreshingly different

As a regular reader of EducationWorld, I was delighted with your refreshingly different cover story ‘Can India Rediscover its Fine Design & Aesthetics Heritage?’ (EW June). It made an overdue connection between design, culture, education, and national identity.

I fully agree with your argument that design is not merely about aesthetics and display but about problem-solving, sustainability, innovation, and beautifying everyday living. The suggestion to establish strong linkages between artisans, designers, education institutions, and industry offers an excellent perspective on how India can build a more creative and culturally rooted future.

The story also raises some pertinent questions about the role of schools and colleges in nurturing aesthetic sensibilities, hands-on learning, and appreciation for craftsmanship among children and youth. Thank you.

Kailash K.

Mumbai

Disappointing coverage

With the NEET paper leak scandal grabbing headlines, I was hoping that EducationWorld would feature a detailed cover story on the subject.

However, I was disappointed that you have only briefly covered this controversy, which adversely affected over 2 million students countrywide.

This is an issue that demands deeper discussion, investigation and visibility.

Lokesh Shetty

Bengaluru

Big reforms needed

Your Education News ‘West Bengal: Enduring long night’ (EW June) makes a very valid recommendation to the state’s newly elected BJP government: place education at the centre of your development agenda.

Once celebrated as India’s intellectual and cultural powerhouse, West Bengal is facing significant challenges within its education system ranging from declining academic standards, inadequate teachers, institutional corruption and politicisation. At this critical juncture, the state needs transformative reforms led by a competent and visionary leadership that places education above politics.

The children of West Bengal truly deserve a renewed commitment to educational excellence and a leadership that will spare no effort in revitalising the state’s rich educational legacy while creating employment opportunities.

 Chintan Mukherjee via email

Insightful perspective

Your Expert Comment ‘Design-driven NextGen schools’ (EW June) offers an insightful perspective on how the future of education is closely linked with the design of learning spaces. Author Shiraz Kirmani rightly observes that schools can no longer be viewed as mere buildings with classrooms, but as thoughtfully designed ecosystems that influence student engagement, safety, creativity and overall learning outcomes. The focus on efficient use of space, better ventilation, natural light, safety and smart infrastructure reflects a much-needed shift towards building child-centric learning environments.

I also liked the interview with Prof. Amit Chakma, Vice Chancellor of the University of Western Australia. By combining global expertise with an understanding of India’s educational needs, cultural context, and aspirations, foreign institutions can contribute meaningfully to the growth of Indian higher education.

Varija Iyer

Chennai

Remarkable story

Young achiever Shreya S. Mundhada (EW June) is a remarkable story of youthful brilliance and determination. Shreya’s historic achievement as India’s first gold medallist at the European Girls’ Mathematical Olympiad (EGMO) 2026 is not just a personal milestone, it’s a proud moment for Indian mathematics and young women in STEM.

Beyond her own success, her commitment to mentoring other maths enthusiasts through a student-led initiative reflects a commendable spirit of giving back.

Anju George

Kochi

Extraordinary example

Your Eyewitness Report ‘Nandha Gokulam Life School, Nellore: Pathbreaking Philanthropic Initiative’ (EW June) is an inspiring account of how education can become a powerful engine of social transformation. The free-of-charge NGLS is an extraordinary example of education driven by purpose, compassion, and commitment to the community.

By providing access to quality education for rural children, Mr. Chinta Sasidhar has exemplified the true spirit of philanthropy — of not merely offering support but enabling empowerment and self-reliance.

Saurabh Dubey

Delhi