Leaders
Nelson Mandela once eloquently stated, "Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world." These profound words encapsulate the extraordinary impact of educators. They possess the remarkable ability to wield this weapon of education, transforming not only the lives of their students but also the trajectory of society.
Abhilasha Singh embarked on her illustrious journey as an educator in 1996, spanning over two and a half decades. Her teaching experiences have taken her across India and abroad, including prestigious institutions like Independent School, Republic of Seychelles,Mahbert High School in Siliguri, Pinegrove School in Himachal Pradesh, and as the Founder and Principal of Golden Harrier School. In 2015, she joined New Indian Model School in Dubai, initially as the Head of Girls Section and Head of the English Department and was promoted to Vice Principal in 2018 and assumed the role of Principal at Shining Star International School in Abu Dhabi in 2019. Engaging in an idiosyncratic interaction with Women Entrepreneur, Abhilasha shares the imperious details of her professional journey, leadership approach, and future roadmap for Shining Star International School.
How would you define Shining Star International School?
Shining Star International School (SSIS) in Abu Dhabi, holds full accreditation from CBSE, the largest examination conducting institution worldwide. Guided by our vision to prepare students for global challenges, we proudly hold the distinction of being recognized as an HP Idea School. SSIS prioritizes environmental stewardship in its curriculum, earning recognition as a School of Excellence among 250 global institutions by Take Action Global, co-founded by Dr. Jennifer Williams and Koen Timmers for Climate Action Education. Implementing the Climate Action School program sets SSIS apart as the only school in Abu Dhabi, among 100 worldwide, and Top 10 school nominee for Best School Prize by T4 Education in the Innovation category.
What are some of the biggest milestones that you have achieved in your professional career so far?
As the Principal of SSIS in Abu Dhabi, UAE, I am privileged to lead an institution that follows the Indian curriculum. I have honed my expertise by successfully completing the International Inspection Skills training by Tribal Group, UK, earning the School Inspection Competency Certificate. Being honored with the Most Amazing Principal Award by Yalla Schools, UAE, was a profound Aha! Moment, as it resulted from nominations by my own students and teachers. My qualifications encompass an ISO 20001 Internal Auditor certification, School Management and Leadership training from Harvard School of Education, and a 3-month certificate course on Visible Thinking from Harvard as well.
"Education is not just about filling minds with knowledge but igniting hearts with a lifelong passion for learning"
As a Global School Advocate supported by the UN Sustainable Development Solutions Network, I underwent rigorous UN4MUN training at the UN Headquarters in NYC. I have excelled as a Model UN Trainer, leading a UNGA Committee on Women Empowerment and Global Economy and presenting the committee report at the UN General Assembly. My continued work on SDGs and volunteering with the UN has led me to the honor of serving as the Strategy and Outreach Coordinator for UN Common Cluster NGO Major Group, a part-time role and a step closer to my childhood dream of working for the United Nations.
As a leader, how do you promote Sustainable Development Goals and climate action initiatives in education?
I wholeheartedly embrace the Global Goals - Agenda 2030 and the dissemination of knowledge about Sustainable Development Goals as a shared responsibility. Since 2019, I have spearheaded the Global Classrooms Goals Project, guiding international educators in implementing initiatives aligned with the assigned Sustainable Development Goals in their schools. As my commitment to Mission 4.7, I have taught SDGs at the Jane Goodall Roots and Shoots Institute during Covid 19 pandemic and English at Kakuma Refugee camp joining hands with Koen Timmers for Project Kakuma.
Where do you see yourself headed towards in the upcoming years?
As I gaze into the horizon of 2023, we eagerly anticipate the implementation of the New Education Policy for 2023-24. In line with our dedication to Education for Sustainable Development, my team and I have been chosen by UNESCO Greening Education Partnership to contribute to the Greening Curriculum and provide capacity-building support. We consider this a significant step towards realizing Agenda 2030 and eagerly anticipate participating in the GEP Secretariat at COP28 in December '23.
As the leader of Shining Star International School, what message would you like to impart to the school community under your guidance?
As the leader of SSIS, I am truly grateful for the unwavering support of our parent community, teachers, and the school management, which has played a vital role in our accomplishments. To our brilliant students, I offer this advice, embrace the pillars of Rigor, Relevance, and Relationships in your educational journey. By doing so, you will not only excel academically but also develop essential skills and values that will shape your future.
Abhilasha Singh, Principal, Shining Star International School
Abhilasha Singh, a distinguished graduate of Panjab University and HNB Garhwal University, holds a PG Diploma in Environment and Sustainable Development and TEFL certification from the University of Toronto. Abhilasha excels as a national player in both Basketball and Handball, earning recognition as an India Camper through participation in junior, senior, and All India University games. Her passion for marathon running and cycling adds depth to her character, truly embodying the quote "The battle of Waterloo was won on the playing fields of Eton."
Awards and Recognitions: Innovative Leader by Ek Updesh in collaboration with Niti Aayog, Govt. Of India, Most Amazing Principal- Yalla Schools, UAE
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