SINDHURA P.
Managing director, Narayana Group of Educational Institutions, Hyderabad
Where would you place education on your national list of priorities?
Education is vital for the economic advancement of India. Educating and skilling our human resources are preconditions of making India globally competitive.
How best to upgrade government schools?
There’s an immediate need to set up R&D teams in all states to review and monitor teaching-learning in government schools, and revamp teacher education countrywide.
Thinker/philosopher you admire the most.
Although I don’t read much philosophy, I am influenced by Bertrand Russell’s analytical approach to problems and issues.
Your favourite Nobel laureate.
Nelson Mandela.
Your leadership style.
In education, human resources are all-important. I believe in participative management, involving staff in policy-making and curriculum development, and empowering them to think independently to produce innovative ideas.
Your favourite book on education.
How Children Succeed by Paul Tough.
For or against the RTE Act’s 25 percent reservation for underprivileged children in private schools?
The intention is commendable, but the rules are impractical. Instead of interfering with private schools, governments should focus on improving their own schools.
Should the education outlay be doubled by cutting defence expenditure?
I am not qualified to comment on budgetary allocations. But a strong education foundation will prepare our youth to take on the world.
How satisfied are you with the growth and development of the Narayana Group of Educational Institutions?
We have been growing at 25 percent per year for the past five years and have expanded our operations to five states. I am pleased, but not satisfied.
Pessimistic or optimistic about the future of education in India?
Certainly optimistic. But I would like to see clarity in government policies and fierce competition, which should be encouraged to improve Indian education across the board.