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Ekya / June 19, 2018 Posted by : administrator

Understanding Science education in today’s context: Is it just to churn out professionals and earn a hefty pay cheque?

By Dr. Rakhi Roy, Parent of Rishit Roy, Grade V, Ekya ITPL.


Every parent aspires the best for their child, be it in any aspect of life – education being given utmost priority. More often, the aspirations are innate, to what we as parents have not been able to achieve ourselves.  As a result, inadvertently, we begin the journey, with a mountain of expectations and bated breath from an oblivious tiny tot.

Science education, unfortunately, is associated with a lot of societal demands. (We talk about child peer pressure; well, parental peer pressure seems to be worse). Usually, the parent wants the child to take up science, not because the child is interested, but because, they can be proud (yes, in bold) parents, of a child who “has taken science in senior secondary school” and is all set to become either a clinician or an engineer. To achieve this no mean feat, the tot is pressure cooked right from the choice of pre-school. Why? Because, we all are participants in this “life-athon” to become “well established, amongst the affluent (read materialistic?) and socially elite”. Paradoxically, the word ‘Science’ is derived from the Latin word ‘scientia’ meaning ‘knowledge’.

Consequently, the message we convey is – opt for science to become an engineer (seems to have beaten the doctors in the race) and in four years you shall have a comfortable life; as you receive a fat pay cheque every month. Being a doctor is too long drawn – five years of undergrad followed by another five years of specializations and super-specialization, till you open shop. The irony is – these are the same doctors (if there are any by then) that we shall go to when we age and succumb; in the same hands, our grandchildren shall be born. With no seeds of dedication sown, we expect a bountiful harvest of oath-abiding clinicians? The result of chaos, confusion, and frustration!

In the words of Shakespeare,

….nature must obey necessity, men at some time are masters of their fates, the fault….is not in our stars, but in ourselves that we are underlings.

Let’s take a step back and think.  Deep inside, is this what the parent-conscience desires to teach our children? The answer is a screaming “NO”. But, the saga continues, thanks to the rigid education framework and its evaluation system; we are losing the “humane” touch of human beings!

Turning back to the protagonist of our life-athon, we unknowingly ignore our most prized possession- the child /student; the one actually running the race. Typically, if you ask a student, why do you go to school? Or why do you learn science? The answer that pops out is – because I want to be a doctor or an engineer.  And, why do you want to become a doctor or an engineer? The answer is a deafening silence coupled with a perplexed expression. With the lack of self-reliant thinking, we are churning out professionals who CANNOT reason. Scarily, unable to differentiate between good and bad for their own selves, let alone the world around them. And yet, we wonder why our planet is spinning every second towards a point of no return!

Probably, it is high time we break the barriers of compartmentalized education – language, history, geography, science, math, economics, life skills or art, to make it more comprehensive, more enriching. For a better planet, we need people, who can learn from the success and mistakes our forefathers made (history); value every drop of water/every bit of air our planet creates to be the only inhabitable planet in our solar system (geography); to discovering natural sustainable sources of energy compatible to the varied forms of life (science) and account for it (math). None of this is possible, without articulated speech (language). Importantly, it is essential to introspect, respect and connect ones “thoughts”, using the various forms of art and life skills, that one could acquire through experiential learning.

To conclude, I fear the day technology will surpass our human interaction. The world will have a generation of idiots”- Albert Einstein (1879-1955).

Which way are we heading?

Dr. Rakhi Roy is a scientist at the Centre for Brain Development and Repair, Institute of Stem cell biology and Regenerative medicine, Bangalore, India where she works on using stem cell-based technologies to develop platforms for understanding neuro-developmental disorders. A Gold medalist in Human Physiology from the prestigious All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi and a Ph.D. from Manipal University, Dr. Pal has more than 10 years of experience in the field of stem cell biology with a particular interest in neurological disorders. She not only has multiple publications and patents to her name but also possesses a unique blend of both industry and academic experiences.

Dr.Rakhi, parent of Ekya, was invited to be our guest writer on the Parents of Ekya feature. Interested parents who would like to write for us can shoot us a mail on communications@ekyaschools.com


Science Curriculum at Ekya Schools

At Ekya we do it differently; we have developed a research-based, active-learning science curriculum that is student-focused and cross-disciplinary, sparks curiosity and facilitates scientific thinking – Click here to know more about our Science program.

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Ekya / March 26, 2024

The Hot Garlic Soup Inspired by ‘The Last Leaf’ by O. Henry

Sue and Johnsy, two young artists, shared a small flat on the third storey of an old house.
Johnsy fell ill in November. She was diagnosed with pneumonia. She would lie in her bed, gazing out of the window. Sue sent for the doctor. The doctor said to Sue, “Johnsy’s condition is not so serious yet. It seems she is unable to recover because she has lost the will to live.”
Sue became extremely worried for Johnsy’s well-being and mental health. She tried to make Johnsy interested in the things around her, but Johnsy never replied with more than a noncommittal hum.
One day, Sue was painting when she heard Johnsy counting backwards. Sue looked out of the window and saw an old ivy creeper climbing on the brick wall. The ivy was shedding its leaves in the strong gust of the wind.
“They are falling faster now,” whispered Johnsy. “Three days ago there were so many leaves. Only five are left now.”
“It is autumn,” said Sue, “and the leaves will fall.”
“When the last leaf falls, I will die” said Johnsy with finality. “I have felt this for the last three days.”
“Oh, that’s nonsense,” replied Sue. “Why do you believe your fate is tied to those old ivy leaves?”
“Human life is fleeting, just like those ivy leaves,” said Johnsy. “I got sick just as the ivy started shedding its leaves. It must be an omen. The last leaf will fall, and I will slip into slumber forever.”
Sue sat on Johnsy’s bed, kissed her and said, “You are not going to die. Plenty of people fall sick in autumn, and they recover soon enough. Do you want some soup?”
“I don’t want any soup. My time is almost up, I’m sure of it,” murmured Johnsy.
Sue decided to change tactics. She was not going to give up on Johnsy.
“It is true that human life is somewhat fleeting, but that’s exactly what makes life valuable. Do you not want to see what life has to offer before you slip into slumber? Will you not miss the cool breeze waking you up, the warm embrace of sunlight? Do you want to give up the feeling of the paintbrush gliding over the canvas?” Sue quavered.
“Look beyond the ivy to that tree over there,” Sue continued. “Even that tree is shedding its leaves, but it is also growing new leaves. It is going to live for many more years, just like you.”
Johnsy contemplated for a while. Then, she looked out of the window and smiled.
“Perhaps I will have some hot garlic soup. You made me realise that life is worth living after all.”
Written by Aahana,
from grade 9A

Ekya / March 22, 2024

Importance of Literature in a Classroom.

"Literature is one of the most interesting and significant expressions of humanity" - P.T.Barnum

We as humans are social beings. We can't imagine our lives to be solitary. Literature facilitates us to understand and communicate with one another in society. It helps us explore the world around us and is a medium to express our views and experiences. So it is of vital importance that the students are introduced to literature at a young age.

Literature is necessary for students as it helps them to develop imagination, improves vocabulary and language skills and even enhances creativity. Literature helps them understand the world outside their home and school.

It is disheartening to see that literature is often not put on the same pedestal as other technical subjects like Math or Science. where it shouldn't be the case.

Literature includes different types of texts like stories and fables, myths

and legends, poetry and drama or even informational texts that help them explore other subjects. It prepares students to read and understand the real world.

There are one too many benefits of including literature at a young age. It is like an exercise for the brain, keeping an individual mentally active and stimulated.

Exposure to cultures from different countries brings in a sense of respect and tolerance, a feat possible through literature. It motivates one to appreciate different lives and their ways and also to graciously disagree with something that may not be right. The different characters the students are introduced to become a source of inspiration. They start to imagine themselves in varied situations. they learn different solutions to problems they come across.

More importantly, reading is fun and literature develops an inclination toward reading and makes them self-learners.

It can be concluded that literature is a gateway to nurturing a child’s life skills more than any assignment or task

can ever do.

Written By:

Shruthi Prakash

English Educator - Primary

Ekya Schools BTM Layout

Ekya / March 22, 2024

A Day to Remember: Juniors Bid Goodbye to Seniors with a Spectacular Farewell Party.

As the academic year draws to a close, emotions run high at our beloved school. The time has come for the juniors to express their gratitude, love, and affection for their departing seniors.

And what better way to do this than by throwing an unforgettable farewell party?

The air was buzzing with excitement as the juniors meticulously planned every detail to make it a night that their seniors would cherish forever.

The audio-visual room was transformed into a place of nostalgia and celebration, adorned with decorations to welcome the seniors. Each performance was filled with energy, enthusiasm, and dedication. Each video played, spoke volumes about the memories shared and the bonds formed throughout their academic journey, blanketing the atmosphere with a mix of joy, laughter, and a hint of bittersweet anticipation.

Our seniors were all dressed up to the nines for the occasion with the girls in a blue and white saree and the boys in black suits.

But how did all of this come to be? I am a grade 11 student and let me take you through behind the scenes of this event and how we prepared for this event.

  • Many girls formed a group and decided to dance to “Paint It Red” and “All Is Well”. Everyone’s efforts are to be appreciated as they come up with new steps and formations. Well-coordinated teamwork led to an amazing performance that got everyone cheering.

  • Meanwhile, my batchmate, Lara,  and a few teachers were preparing to sing songs dedicated to the seniors. Lara sang a melodious rendition of “When You Believe” and the teachers sang a medley of songs which got the seniors singing along as well!

  • The boys planned on dancing to the song “Galti Se Mistake” and their performance was full of creativity and humour. The choreography was inspired by the original music video of the song and they worked hard together and taught each other the steps. This performance got everyone giggling and cheering so loud!

  • It did not end with the students, even the teachers chose to step into this grand celebration. They danced on a variety of songs and each song made the seniors hoot louder. Even though they had a very busy schedule they would still take time and dedicate it to the dance practice during after-school hours. Huge kudos for their coordination and effort!

  • Mohana and Arshia came up with a very engaging script which had the attention of the audience. A small game was organised for the students where they had to write something good about one of their batchmates. Everybody put their hands together and made 32 crowns of appreciation for their seniors. A video of the seniors was made including photos and videos of their dearest memories. Last but not least, our teachers also prepared a video message for the seniors bidding farewell and wishing them the best for their future endeavours.

The day finally came. The 10th of February came. It was the day - the day for which we had been preparing for days. The graduation.

The place was set, the background screen was ready, the mic was ready and the sound system was ready. Our seniors came one by one and the auditorium was filled with chatter until the anchors came in and the event started.

After a few minutes, the head boy gave a heartfelt speech, followed by the chit game of affirmations then Lara’s beautiful performance.

The girls donned black kurtis and sunglasses and danced to “Paint It Red”, which got a round of applause. The seniors loved the “Galti Se Mistake” dance by the boys for its creativity and comedic execution and what made it better was the shorts with shirt and tie combination. The dance finale was to the song “All Is Well” which got the audience cheering for the dancers with lots of enthusiasm.

Then a video filled with the memories of the seniors was shown which made most of them emotional. The dance which everybody was eagerly anticipating started - it was our beloved teachers who completely rocked the stage with their amazing performance.

Then a few teachers gave a very emotional message followed by songs dedicated to their students. The event came to an end with video messages by the teachers,  a crowning ceremony and high tea.

In conclusion, the event was successful, and enjoyed by all the students - juniors, seniors and teachers. It wouldn’t have been possible without everyone’s contribution and teamwork. It was an emotional roller coaster for everyone and a day which will never be forgotten.

Written By:

Stutee Samantray

(Grade 11, Ekya BTM)

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Bangalore Days – Poem by Nidhi Bhavsar

Titled 'Bangalore Days', this poem by Nidhi Bhavsar of Grade IX, Ekya School JP Nagar reflects on the early glories of a city that is now a shadow of its former self, thanks to endless urbanization.
Bangalore, once a paradise. Buildings were rarely seen. Rain was found in abundance, Its citizens always with umbrellas. No more is it a haven, A stressed man's refuge. It is now a land with pollution and dust, A major city but without its glory. May Bangalore regain its legacy, May it flourish again as the garden city, Maybe the destiny of this great city will change, It may just become green again. The beautiful weather, the picturesque scenery, It may all come back to regain its destiny. The peaceful roads, the tiny, cozy houses, It may all return, Bangalore's beautiful legacy.

More poems from our young poets

A Confluence of Art and Literature – School Report from Ekya JP Nagar

A confluence of art and literature “An artist is not a special kind of person; rather each person is a special kind of artist.." ~ Ananda Coomaraswamy. Art is not only about drawing, painting, sculpting and so on. It has a much deeper meaning than that. It is humans expressing themselves in an imaginative and creative way. Art has a huge influence on people and it helps us discover new talents hidden inside. At Ekya, we believe in discovering and honing each and every talent of all our students. Thus we have started our year doing exactly that. From Grades I to X, we have held competitions for all the students in order to discover and enhance their skills in various fields. So as to have a competitive edge, we held two rounds of these competitions. The prelims were held on 12th June and the finale was held on 14th June 2018. GRADE I TO IV For our primary school children, ‘Shloka Recitation Competition' was held. All the children were ecstatic and overjoyed. They took a lot of effort in the preparation and put up a great show. They recited various shlokas from different religious beliefs. This made them realize the importance of our nation and its sacred history. The finale judges, Ms. Ashwini and Ms. Neelufur, gave an insight into the competition and the overall performance of the students. “The finale was a very well-prepared event. Each student had a unique and difficult shloka yet they did not hesitate while reciting it. Their confidence was brilliant and each one’s oratory skills were put to a test. The students were crisp while speaking and knew all the difficult words by heart. A few of them even gave an introduction to their selected shloka and why it was written. This interest of theirs was very heartening. Thus the students put up a great show with loads and loads of effort which was clearly seen and much appreciated.”   GRADE V TO VII The next segment of our events was the “Dance Competition’ for Grades V to VII. Our little ‘Birju Maharajs’ and ‘Anna Pavlovas’ exhibited the best of their moves and put up a very intense competition. They changed the serious atmosphere with some groovy tunes which kept everyone on their toes and wishing to dance along. The effort put in was fabulous and was admired by one and all. The judges, Ms. Ranjana and Ms. Lakshmi, gave us a little tune to write down as well. “The entire atmosphere was electrified with the excitement of students and teachers alike. Everyone had prepared a great performance. The participants’ confidence, interest, and groovy moves were well thought of and carried out flawlessly. Their choice of songs and costumes were delightful. Many dance forms ranging from Indian classical to contemporary to hip-hop were covered extremely well. The supportive audience cheered on the participants and made the competition a very enjoyable one.”   GRADE VIII TO X Finally, the high schoolers of Ekya put forth their views in a few of the world’s most controversial topics in a debate. Students were paired and were made to go against their partners. Their views and their way of conveying their points were extremely creative. As one of the ways of preparing the students for the real world, this activity makes them realize the importance of their voices and opinions. It teaches them to take a stand and be prepared for the people who will be going against them. The topics did put many of the students in a dilemma and made them ponder on the different sides of the same story. While asking Ms. Asha, Ms. Meghana, and Ms. Sreepriya, the teachers in charge of the events, we learned quite a lot about the event that was held, “Each and every student put in a lot of effort and prepared extremely well to speak. None of them stumbled around for words or stuttered. They were crisp in speaking and put forth their best arguments. All of their hard work was well-recognized and admired. All the students' listening, speaking and convincing skills were put to test and enhanced. They had articulated speeches on both sides putting up a great debate. The questions were well constructed and the answers were bang on, too. The good participation and support from the audience created a lively space. It was a very close competition that was difficult to judge. In the end, all the students stuck to their stands and held their beliefs with adequate evidence.”    

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