India: Delhi Educators unite to advance resilience and inclusivity in classrooms with RiseUp4Peace

New Delhi, India/17 September 2024: "The biggest challenge we face as educators today is not just teaching subjects but guiding young minds to navigate and respond to emerging complexities.”

This sentiment, expressed by an educator, set the tone for intensive discussions among principals, educators and counsellors from 32 Delhi NCR schools, at the recent RiseUp4Peace capacity boosting workshop hosted by the Tagore International School (East of Kailash) in New Delhi.

Reflecting on vulnerabilities faced by students—ranging from peer pressure, negative influences, cyber risks and risky behaviours—educators explored practical ways of embedding lessons on peace, integrity and lawfulness into their classrooms. The focus on good practices and policy linkages with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 provided a framework for integrating these critical themes into everyday educational practices.

Focusing on practical solutions in engaging discussions led by Dr. Satya Bhushan from the National Council on Educational Research and Training (NCERT) and Mr. Samarth Pathak from UNODC, educators brainstormed ideas such as role-play simulations to address gender divides and implementing “safe space” buddy programs to promote mental well-being. Working in mixed groups, they also discussed real-life cases that highlighted student vulnerabilities and challenges young people face—bullying, lack of spaces to “vent” their feelings, and online risks. 

Interactive activity-based programs, educators emphasised, would encourage students to open up and seek support when facing challenges like bullying or anxiety. "We need to foster environments where students feel heard and understood, not judged. The role of an educator is no longer just to teach but to be a mentor," said a Principal.

UNODC's Regional Representative for South Asia, Marco Teixeira, reinforced this idea, underlining the importance of educating youth on the Sustainable Development Goal 16 (SDG16). "We cannot ignore the harsh reality that young people are vulnerable to drugs, crime, and risky behaviors. Education is key to empowering them and safeguarding their future," he stressed.

A key highlight of the event was the talk by RiseUp4Peace youth champion Aarushi Gambhir, who works passionately for disability inclusion through her initiative ‘Enable Education.’ Addressing the room, she spoke from the heart: "We talk about inclusivity, but it’s action that truly matters. Let’s ensure no child is left behind—whether it’s in terms of abilities, mental health, or access to education." Her powerful words brought the discussion to life, inspiring educators to think more deeply about how they can make their classrooms inclusive in practice, not just theory.

"Building resilience starts by fostering safe and inclusive environments where every student feels valued," said Ms. Mallika Preman, Principal of Tagore International School. "Providing safe spaces to students is key to building a peaceful society. I’m happy to be part of RiseUp4Peace, a crucial platform where educators can collaborate and inspire change."

Special messages from Indian actor Suniel Shetty and badminton icon Saina Nehwal were also screened during the event, reminding participants of the vital role they play in shaping the future of young minds.

“When educators come together, we can drive real change," said one participant. "It’s about creating resilient, inclusive classrooms that shape the next generation."

With RiseUp4Peace, the journey to transforming lives has begun, one classroom at a time.

Join the RiseUp4Peace initiative: t.ly/SjWRq

The activity contributed to SDG 4, SDG 16 and SDG 17: https://sdg-tracker.org/ 

(Supported by RB23)