Need to raise emotionally intelligent, skilled individuals of tomorrow

We often talk about success — how to achieve it, measure and maintain it. But as an educator, I believe it is important to pause and reflect on what kind of success we are preparing our children for. Is it only about marks, medals and job offers? Or is there a deeper and more lasting version of success?

In the age of smartphones and artificial intelligence (AI), we are raising a generation that is tech-savvy. Going beyond textbooks and encouraging skill-based learning prepares them for real-life challenges. When we teach children how to work in a team, solve problems creatively, speak confidently, manage time and adapt to change—they begin to develop tools that last a lifetime. From communication and creativity to problem-solving, critical thinking, digital literacy and emotional resilience — these life skills are essential for success in the modern world. But are our children emotionally intelligent? Are they kind? Are they respectful?

Today, we are witnessing a silent crisis—the gradual decline of moral values and humanism. Burning issues like cyber bullying among teens, school violence, aggression or high stress among children is often related to their emotional health. The Sanskrit verse in Manusmriti beautifully says: “Vidya dadati vinayam, vinayaad yaati paatrataam” (Knowledge gives humility, humility leads to worthiness). This quote emphasises the transformative power of education, highlighting that true learning fosters humility, which in turn, makes one deserving or worthy. Manners or conduct are not taught in a single lesson or textbook. They are absorbed, modelled and reinforced — at home and in school. When children see their parents speaking respectfully, helping others, saying “please” and “thank you,” they naturally absorb those behaviours. Additionally, every interaction at school — how we speak to a child, how we respond to a mistake, how we model discipline — contributes to their sense of right and wrong. Hence, education is not just about producing high scorers — it’s about nurturing good human beings. And when parents and teachers work together, we raise children who are not only smart but also humble, responsible and empathetic.

Let us shape a generation that excels not just in skills but in humanity, humility and harmony. While we teach our children coding, critical thinking and science, let’s also teach them kindness, patience, social manners, respect, gratitude and empathy.