‘Need to embrace idea of doing one’s best instead of being better than others’

Amid increasing competition, high cost of education and often overwhelming pressure to do well, school education today has become tough to navigate for children.

Monika Sharma, principal, Shri Ram Global School, talks to Shivani Bhakoo about her journey in education, reforms in the system, and her experiences with students and parents.

For how long have you been associated with education?

With over 30 years in education, my journey has been enriching and transformative. I began my career as a teacher, driven by a passion to connect with young minds and make learning meaningful. Over the years, it evolved into a larger vision as I took on varied roles — academic coordinator, trainer, counsellor and an institutional leader.

My experience has given me the opportunity to work closely with students across age groups, understanding their diverse learning needs, emotional landscapes and aspirations. Equally fulfilling has been training and empowering educators — helping teachers refine pedagogy, adopt innovative practices, and create engaging and inclusive classrooms.

Today, there is a lot of competition among students. The grades are also too high. Is it stressful for the average students?

The highly competitive environment has certainly driven students to aim higher and achieve more, but it also introduced an intense pressure that is not always healthy or sustainable. While some students thrive in such settings, many others — who may have different strengths, learning styles or pace — often find themselves overwhelmed.

The constant race to score higher, perform better and outshine peers can take a toll on a child’s emotional well-being, leading to anxiety, self-doubt and fear of failure. It is important to remember not every child is naturally inclined towards conventional academic excellence, and that does not make them any less capable or promising. Each child is unique, with their own set of talents, interests and potential. When we begin to measure all children with the same yardstick, especially through comparison, we diminish their individuality.

Comparison, whether by peers, parents or educators, often replaces motivation with pressure and encouragement with insecurity.

We need a shift in perspective — a conscious move away from the idea of “being the best” to embracing the value of “doing one’s best.”

What is the role of parents and teachers in shaping children’s future?

Parents and teachers play an interconnected and vital role in shaping a child’s future. A child’s development is not limited to the classroom; it is a continuous process influenced by the environment at the school and home. While schools provide structured learning, discipline, exposure and opportunities to grow intellectually, parents lay the emotional and moral foundations that shape a child’s personality, confidence and sense of security.

Teachers are facilitators and mentors who guide students through academic concepts, encourage curiosity and instil important life skills, such as critical thinking, problem-solving and collaboration. The impact of a teacher becomes far more powerful when it is reinforced by a supportive and understanding home environment.

The magic happens when parents and teachers work in alignment. Open communication, mutual respect and shared goals create a strong support system for the children.

Has education become too expensive?

Education has become expensive over the years. The parents’ concerns regarding fees, uniforms and books are completely valid, and deserve to be acknowledged with sensitivity. For many families, education is one of the most significant investments, and naturally, they seek clarity, value and fairness.

However, what often remains unseen is the extensive investment that schools make to provide a safe, enriching and future-ready learning environment. Quality education goes far beyond textbooks. Schools invest in qualified and trained faculty, continuous professional development for teachers, modern infrastructure, technology-enabled classrooms, safety measures, and a wide range of co-curricular and experiential learning opportunities.

Additionally, maintaining standards, adhering to regulations and upgrading resources to match evolving needs require consistent financial planning and commitment from the institutions. These elements contribute to the overall cost.

How can we better shape the future of our students?

We must move beyond a narrow focus on academics and place equal emphasis on life skills, critical thinking, creativity and emotional intelligence. In today’s rapidly changing world, success is no longer defined solely by marks or degrees, but by a child’s ability to think independently, solve problems, communicate effectively and adapt to new situations. Education must prepare children for life, not just for examinations.

Life skills, such as decision-making, teamwork, leadership and time management, prepare students for navigating real-world challenges with confidence. Critical thinking enables them to question, analyse and form their perspectives, rather than simply memorising information.

How far is academic competition among students healthy?

Competition, when approached in a healthy and balanced manner, can be a powerful motivator. It encourages students to set goals, stay disciplined and strive for improvement. They learn the value of hard work, time management and perseverance. It also prepares them to face real-life challenges where effort and consistency are crucial to success.

However, the impact of competition changes when it becomes excessive or is driven by constant comparison. When children begin to measure their worth through comparison with peers, it can lead to stress, anxiety and a diminished sense of self-worth. Not every child thrives under pressure, and for many, it can create fear of failure rather than a love for learning.

This is where balance becomes essential. As educators and parents, we must ensure competition remains a tool for growth, and does not become a source of distress.