Schools must create inclusive ecosystems

Meenu Chopra, Principal, DCM Young Entrepreneur School, talks to Principal Correspondent Shivani Bhakoo on issues like the changing scenario of education, stressful competition among students, understanding the psyche of students, etc.

Q Your experience in education: Where have you served and for how long?

With over three decades in education, including 11 years in leadership roles, I have had the privilege of serving in reputed CBSE schools such as Amity International, Shalom Hills, GD Goenka, Summer Fields and DPSG Sushant Lok. Currently, I am the Principal at DCM Young Entrepreneur School, Ludhiana, leading its vision of nurturing innovation, entrepreneurship and holistic excellence.

Q A lot of competition is going on among students, and they are performing too well. Isn’t it too stressful for ordinary students?

Competition among students today is intense, and while it drives excellence, it can also be stressful for some. The key lies in redefining success — not only as marks and ranks, but as growth, resilience and self-discovery. Schools must create inclusive ecosystems, where every learner finds space to thrive at their own pace.

Q: What is the role of parents and teachers in shaping future of the students?

Parents and teachers are co-architects of a child’s future. While teachers shape skills, habits and confidence, parents provide the emotional scaffolding and value system that sustain lifelong learning. When both align in trust and communication, students flourish.

Q Has education become very expensive? Why parents are raising a hue and cry over fees, uniforms, books?

Education has undoubtedly become more expensive due to changing infrastructure needs, technology integration and compliance standards. Yet, much of the “hue and cry” stems from misunderstanding of the investment purpose. Schools must remain transparent about costs, and parents must see education as an enduring asset, not an expense.

Q How can we shape the future of our students in a better way?

To shape a better future for students, we must nurture curiosity, compassion and creativity over rote learning. Integrating experiential learning, digital literacy and real-world exposure empowers children to be future-ready global citizens.

Q Is the competition among students in schools over better grades and marks healthy?

Healthy competition is essential — it sparks motivation and self-improvement. However, it must remain balanced, never comparative. Schools should celebrate effort, empathy and collaboration as much as achievement.

Q What difficult situations you face with students and parents at times?

Challenges with students and parents are inevitable — ranging from behavioural concerns to academic anxieties or differing expectations. Each situation is unique and requires empathy, fairness and communication. I believe in restorative practices — listening first, then guiding towards resolution and growth.