KDMC Hosts First Teachers’ Conference in Mumbai
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With a big stride to improve the quality of education in public schools, the Kalyan Dombivli Municipal Corporatiok (KDMC) just held its first teachers’ conference. Held in Mumbai, the event drew hundreds of teachers, principals, and education specialists from all throughout the city with a common goal: to raise the standards for teaching and student outcomes in KDMC-run schools. The conference was a major watershed moment in KDMC’s ongoing efforts to update its educational system and provide students in city schools a more stimulating and efficient learning environment. Part of the civil body’s more extensive plan to update school infrastructure, use innovative teaching techniques, and give educators the necessary training to keep pace with the evolving needs of the educational sector is this initiative. In his address, KDMC Commissioner Dr. Bhausaheb Dangade emphasized how important such venues are in providing educators the resources they require and in aligning school education with the learning goals of the twenty-first century. To promote critical thinking, creativity, and real-world skills in students, he underlined the need of moving beyond traditional, rote-based teaching techniques. He also stressed that the drive, education, and professional development of its teachers ultimately define the success of any school system. Creative strategies for classroom instruction, child-centered learning, digital inclusion, and the psychological health of both students and teachers were the main focus of the conference. With renowned academics and guest speakers offering speeches, the sessions addressed topics including experiential learning, inclusive education, technology in classrooms, NEP 2020 implementation techniques, and emotional intelligence for teachers. Highlights of the event were the interactive workshops, which gave teachers the opportunity to engage with cutting-edge teaching approaches. Courses on classroom management, assessment reform, and activity-based learning were especially welcomed by young teachers just beginning their careers. Thanks to the practical approach, participants could try new approaches and instruments that could be employed immediately in their own schools. Instructors from more than 100 municipal schools under the purview of the KDMC who shared their experiences, challenges, and successes in the classroom attended the event. Many of them first had the chance to participate in a formal professional development program of this size here. Encouragement of peer learning and teamwork by the platform helped to build a stronger sense of community among teachers who are often separated in their schools as a result of the decentralized structure of the municipal school system. Among the highlights of the conference was the unveiling of a teacher recognition scheme meant to honor teachers who have proven brilliance and inventiveness in their teaching techniques. The civic council also declared intentions to introduce a specialized teacher training curriculum at city schools, including periodic seminars, orientation sessions, and online learning materials available throughout the academic year. Teachers should get continuous training and support, according to Shilpa Patil, Education Officer for KDMC. She says that one-time training is inadequate and that ongoing upskilling is essential to meet the different needs of students in the modern, always changing educational environment. She vowed that the civil body will always give education top priority and that it would keep allocating the funds needed to raise instructor capability. The move takes place during a period when many parents are opting to leave the public education system because they perceive a difference in quality and municipal schools face intense competition from private ones. Through these programs, KDMC hopes to reclaim confidence in its public education system and ensure that all children, regardless of their background, may get a just and top-level education. Participants felt revitalized in enthusiasm and drive at the conclusion of the event. Most of the participants had good comments; many wanted the program to be extended to include more stakeholders like parents and community leaders as well as be conducted yearly. KDMC prepares for the future and the success of this first teachers’ conference serves as inspiration for other civic organizations to follow. It shows how local authority may produce major changes that help students, schools, and society as a whole when in line with educational innovation and teacher empowerment.
