Top 5 Remarkable Men in Education - 2024 Updated 1 (2)_compressed.pdf

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Vol. 04 | Issue 02 | 2024
Vol. 04 | Issue 02 | 2024
Vol. 04 | Issue 02 | 2024
Education,
2024
Top 5
Remarkable
Men in
Prof. Som Nath Sachdeva
Vice-Chancellor,
Kurukshetra University
Prof. Som Nath
Sachdeva
Pioneering a Comprehensive Educa onal Setup
Cultural Shi s
Recognising and Valuing Men's
Contribu ons in Educa on
The Importance of
Male Perspec ve
Cul va ng Inclusive
Learning Environments

Male leadership in education continues
to play a significant role in shaping
academic environments and educa-
tional outcomes. Historically, men have often
dominated leadership positions in educational
institutions, particularly at higher levels such as
superintendents, principals, and department
heads. While the field of education has become
more gender-balanced over time, male leadership
still holds sway in many settings, impacting
policies, practices, and school culture.
One aspect of male leadership in education is its
representation at the highest administrative
levels. Despite progress towards gender equality,
men continue to hold a majority of superinten-
dent positions in school districts across the
globe. This trend suggests enduring perceptions
about leadership that may favour male attributes
or experiences. Male superintendents often
influence district-wide initiatives, budgets, and
long-term strategic planning, shaping the
educational experiences of thousands of students.
Moreover, within schools, male principals often
embody a visible authority figure. Research
suggests that the presence of male principals can
impact school culture and discipline practices.
Male leadership can also serve as role models for
students, particularly boys, offering representa-
tions of success and achievement.
Highlighting Male
in Education
Leadership

In the classroom, male teachers who take on leadership
roles can bring unique perspectives and mentorship
opportunities. They might contribute to diversifying
teaching styles and approaches, enriching the educational
experience for all students. However, the
underrepresentation of male teachers in primary and
secondary education can limit the visibility of male role
models for students, especially young boys.
It's essential to recognize that while male leadership has
traditionally held prominence in education, efforts towards
inclusivity and diversity are crucial. Encouraging more
women to pursue leadership roles in education can lead to
a more balanced and representative leadership landscape,
benefiting students and educators alike. Ultimately,
effective education leadership should prioritize skills,
vision, and dedication over gender, fostering inclusive
environments that support the success of all students.
In highlighting the significance of male leadership in
education, it's important to acknowledge the contributions
of individuals who have made notable impacts in the field.
As we delve into the latest edition of The Knowledge
Review—Top 5 Remarkable Men in Education, 2024
we celebrate their dedication, innovation, and commitment
to shaping the future of learning.
Read on to explore their stories and discover how these
exceptional leaders are shaping the educational landscape
and inspiring positive change!
- Gopal Ingole
Gopal Ingole
Editor’s
Note

Prof. Som Nath
Sachdeva
Pioneering a Comprehensive Educational Setup
Cover Story
08

Content
Proﬁle
Articles
16
24
30
12 20
Prof. Alok Kumar Chakrawal
Prof Dheeraj Sharma
Mr Pravin Biyani
Transforming Laymen into
Skilled Individuals
Facilitating Transformative
Learning Experiences
A Man on a Venture of
Equal Education
Cultural Shifts The Importance of
Male Perspective
Recognising and Valuing
Men's Contributions in Education Cultivating Inclusive

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Team Lead
Swati More
Sr. BDE
Vikram Chauhan
Rahul Shinde

Mr Pravin Biyani
Mr Pravin believes that the overall education
system in India is at par with the international
standards because what suits America may not
apply to India.
Dr. Dinesh Sabni
Brief
Name
Dr. Sabnis greatly believes in the education and
education industry as he feels it is very vibrant and
wishes to mention that every day is a new day of
planning and learning for students, educators, and
himself.
Founder,
LearnBix & Biyani Group of
Education
AGM Physical Education,
Ashoka Group of Schools
Designation
Prof Dheeraj Sharma
Prof Dheeraj believes that research is one of the
most important parts of the work of an
academician.
Prof. Alok Kumar
Chakrawal
Prof. Alok has implemented innovative teaching
practices like student engagement through
mental mapping to promote a culture of
innovation and creativity for better academic
outcomes.
Director,
IIM Rohtak
Vice-Chancellor,
Guru Ghasidas
Vishwavidyalaya
Prof. Som Nath
Sachdeva
Prof. Som Nath is a highly experienced and well-
respected consultant in Highway Engineering with an
impressive track record of providing exceptional
consultancy services to various government and
private sector organizations for almost twenty years.
Vice-Chancellor,
Education,
2024
Top 5
Remarkable
Men in

Prof. Som Nath
Sachdeva
Pioneering a Comprehensive Educational Setup
I believe that
the role of technology
is critical and
pervasive in current
times, especially post-
COVID-19.
Prof. Som
Nath Sachdeva
Vice-Chancellor,
ducation leaders are
Evisionaries who shape the
dynamic educational sphere,
crafting a student-centric set-up that
imparts quality education without any
compromise. These leaders thoroughly
research the educational landscape and
apply strategies to bring progressive
with exceptional organizational and
delegation skills, education leaders
strive to establish educational
excellence.
They understand the role of education
in raising the standards of society and,
hence, contribute to promoting literacy
by inspiring and inﬂuencing learners.
Prof. Som Nath Sachdeva, Vice-
Chancellor of Kurukshetra
University, is an adept personality
with well-versed knowledge and
experience in the educational realm.
transformations. Their primary focus is
the upliftment of students from all
backgrounds.
They hold empathy and eﬀectively
communicate with students, parents,
and educators. These thought leaders
always have an eye for solutions and
patiently handle situations. Equipped
Top 5 Remarkable Men in Education, 2024
08 | April 2024

He holds a degree in Civil Engineering
from Regional Engineering College,
Kurukshetra, and a doctorate under the
guidance of renowned professors from
IIT Roorkee and NIT Kurukshetra. He
has thirty-three years of expertise in
teaching, research, consultancy, and
administration at NIT Kurukshetra, a
Nationally Important Institution.
This skilled individual completed all
his academic requirements with high
marks at both the Board and University
levels. He is a recognized education
leader specializing in transportation
engineering, who established the
M.Tech Program in Transportation
Engineering in 2005 under the Civil
Engineering Department at NIT
Kurukshetra. His proposal included
creating two advanced laboratories and
modernizing the Highway Engineering
Lab.
A Passion for Teaching and R&D
Prof. Som Nath’s teaching profession
began at the esteemed Punjab
Engineering College, Chandigarh.
conferences, several of which had very
high impact factor SCI journals.
For his study work published in the
Indian Roads Congress Journal, he
received both a gold medal and the
best work award. Similarly, he won
another best paper award at an
international conference in the United
States of America.
Prof. Som Nath has traveled to
numerous nations during his studies,
including the USA, Hong Kong,
Zhejiang Wanli University in Ningbo,
China, and the University of
Cambridge in the UK. In addition, he
has given technical speeches and
chaired numerous technical conference
sessions. He also reviews work for
numerous reputable national and
international magazines.
Precious Contributions to Highway
Engineering
Prof. Som Nath is a highly experienced
and well-respected consultant in
Highway Engineering with an
With his innovative approaches and
strategic teaching methods, he was
acknowledged as the Best Teacher of
the Civil Engineering Department in
the students’ feedback. His dedication
to the teaching profession is well-
reﬂected in his decisions; he chose
teaching over being a commissioned
oﬃcer in Army Engineers through the
Service Selection Board, Executive
Engineer in the Border Roads
Organisation through the Indian
Engineering Services Examination of
UPSC, and Executive Engineer in
Construction Wing of All India Radio
& Doordarshan through IES exam of
UPSC, and so on.
In addition to his work in education,
Prof. Som Nath has a strong
background in research and
development. He has successfully led
numerous sponsored R&D projects and
supervised the dissertations of over
seventy M.Tech and Ph.D. scholars. He
has also published over a hundred
research papers in reputable national
and international journals and
www.theknowledgereview.in | 09

impressive track record of providing
exceptional consultancy services to
various government and private sector
organizations for almost twenty years.
His expertise lies in multiple areas,
including pavement design, mix
designs, geometric design of roads,
traffic studies, transportation planning,
material testing, field investigations,
and quality control.
thousand crores. He was given special
appreciation from the state government
for his valuable contribution.
Crafting a Holistic Educational
Set-up
Prof. Som Nath's comprehensive skill
set, positive approach, and abilities
distinguish him as a leading force
positioned to drive Kurukshetra
University to greater prominence and
success. Kurukshetra University has
established a NEP 2020-based
curriculum for undergraduate degrees
in both traditional and online formats.
This parity between the formats also
facilitates student movement among
these modes in the true spirit of
flexible education.
NEP 2020 calls for Higher Education
Institutes to function as knowledge
He has helped his clients significantly
improve their transportation
infrastructure and earned a reputation
for delivering high-quality work.
Through his consultancy services,
Professor Som Nath has generated
substantial revenue for his institute,
making him an invaluable asset to the
field of highway engineering.
Driving Rural Development through
Infrastructure Innovation
Prof. Som Nath is the coordinator of
the State Technical Agency of Govt of
India for the implementation of
Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojna
Projects in Haryana and was
instrumental in providing technical and
R&D input to widening and
strengthening many rural roads of
Haryana worth more than two
My role as Vice-Chancellor
of the Kurukshetra University
is to deliver learning through
regular on-campus
programs, programs of
affiliated colleges, and
distance learning education.
10 | April 2024

creation and innovation hubs,
promoting the national economy's
growth. Kurukshetra University
promotes a creative culture where
students are encouraged to explore and
question, fostering critical thinking,
brainstorming, collaborative projects,
interactive learning, and
interdisciplinary learning.
It also offers entrepreneurship
programs equipping students with
skills like problem-solving,
resourcefulness, and adaptability,
preparing them for the dynamic
landscape of the professional world.
Under the visionary leadership of Prof.
Som Nath, Kurukshetra University
emphasizes project-based learning,
leverages technology, and encourages
students to acquire advanced skills and
incorporate ethical and sustainable
innovation.
Modes of Responsibilities
Within his thirty-three years of
experience, Prof. Som Nath has
performed almost all administrative
assignments, including head of the
department, director of the grievance
cell, chief warden, president of
students' clubs, P/I examination, etc.
He also served as an NCC officer for
about 15 years and held the
commissioned rank of Captain.
He also has administrative experience
as a member of the Executive Council
and Academic Council of three
Universities of Haryana and the Court
of Kurukshetra University. Besides, he
has been a member of many reputed
national-level committees, the H-3
committee of the Indian Roads
Congress for formulating Standards
and Codes in cement concrete
pavements, and an expert National
Board of Accreditation member. He is
also a Master Trainer of Road Safety
for the Government of India and a life
significantly contributed to the
organization's development. He has
already received recognition for his
tremendous contributions to society
from the Hon'ble Chief Minister and
Governor of Haryana.
Definition of a Capable Leader
Prof. Som Nath reflects perfection and
inspires hundreds of leaders in the
education sector. He possesses all-
around capabilities, which are reflected
in the fact that he is not only good at
academics, research, consultancy, and
administration but also equally good at
extra-curricular activities. He has
represented the state in badminton and
an on-the-spot painting competition
and won prizes. He was also the best
NCC shooter at Kurukshetra
University.
Prof. Som Nath is a simple and
optimistic person with a solid
foundation for heading Kurukshetra
University.
member of various professional
societies.
A Social Activist
Prof. Som Nath is also well-known for
his contributions to social services. He
has significantly contributed to creating
designs for enlarging the railway route
to four lanes and widening the road
from Pipli to Third Gate to Jayotisar to
six lanes.
He has been involved in the project of
supplying fresh water from the
Narwana Branch Canal to
Brahmsarovar, as well as the project of
providing a new water supply to
Pehowa Tirath, which included
remodeling the bed of its Sarovar to
keep the water clean.
In addition, he helped prepare a
proposal for the development of
several locations under the Krishna
Circuit in Kurukshetra, which resulted
in a grant of more than 90 crore from
the Government of India for this
project.
He served on International Gita
Mahotsav's advisory group and

Recognising
and Valuing
Men's
Contributions
in Education
The education sector has traditionally been perceived
as a female-dominated field, with women
constituting a large portion of teachers and
educators. This has resulted in a situation where the
valuable contributions of men in shaping young minds often
go unnoticed and underappreciated.
However, a refreshing shift is underway. As society
embraces gender equality and celebrates diversity, there's a
growing recognition of the importance of men in education.
This newfound appreciation acknowledges the unique
perspectives and experiences men bring to the classroom,
fostering a richer learning environment for students. It also
dismantles outdated stereotypes that might discourage men
from pursuing fulfilling careers in education, ultimately
benefiting the entire education system.
Join in to elucidate the significance of acknowledging men's
roles in education and the evolving cultural attitudes
towards gender representation in this field.
The Correlation: Cultural Shifts
The correlation between recognizing men's contributions in
education and cultural shifts reflects changing perceptions
of gender roles and diversity. Historically, education has
been associated with nurturing and caregiving, qualities
often attributed to women.
As societal norms evolve, there is a growing recognition of
the need for diverse representation in all professions,
including education. Cultural shifts towards gender equality
emphasize the value of men's perspectives,
12 | April 2024

Cultural Shifts

experiences, and contributions in
shaping educational practices and
policies.
This recognition goes more than
simply acknowledging men's presence
in the classroom. It opens doors for
innovative teaching styles and a more
well-rounded learning experience for
students. Male educators can serve as
role models for young boys, particu-
larly those who might not have strong
male figures in their lives. Further-
more, including men in discussions
about curriculum development and
educational leadership can lead to a
more balanced approach, addressing
the needs of a diverse student body.
Ultimately, recognizing men's contri-
butions in education is not about
diminishing the crucial role of women
teachers, but rather about creating a
more inclusive and effective learning
environment for all. This reflects a
broader cultural shift where success is
not defined by gender but by passion,
dedication, and the unique skills each
individual brings to the table.
Challenges Faced by Men in
Education
Men in education encounter unique
challenges that can hinder recognition
and appreciation:
• Gender Stereotypes: Stereotypes
associating teaching and
caregiving roles with femininity
may discourage men from
pursuing careers in education or
lead to assumptions about their
motivations.
• Underrepresentation: Men
constitute a minority in the
teaching profession, particularly in
early childhood education and
primary school settings, which can
perpetuate stereotypes and biases.
• Perceptions of Masculinity:
Societal expectations of
masculinity may limit men's
policies within educational
institutions.
Examples of Men's Contributions to
Education
Numerous examples highlight men's
impactful contributions to education:
• Innovative Teaching Methods:
Male educators pioneering
innovative teaching methods and
technologies that enhance student
engagement and learning out-
comes.
• Advocacy for Education
Reform: Male policymakers and
educational leaders advocating for
systemic changes to improve
educational equity and quality.
Conclusion
Recognizing and valuing men's
contributions in education is essential
for promoting gender equality,
diversity, and inclusivity within the
education sector. By challenging
stereotypes, addressing barriers, and
promoting diverse representation, we
can create supportive environments
that empower all educators to thrive.
Looking ahead, the future of education
will benefit from embracing men's
perspectives and experiences further
supporting and fostering collaborative
approaches to teaching and learning,
and advancing cultural shifts towards
greater gender equality in education.
The future of recognizing men's
contributions to education will be
shaped by ongoing efforts to dismantle
gender stereotypes, promote inclusive
practices, and create supportive
environments for male educators. As
cultural attitudes towards gender roles
continue to change, education will play
a crucial role in driving positive
societal change, advancing gender
equality, and valuing the diverse
contributions of all educators,
regardless of gender.
willingness to engage in nurturing
and empathetic roles traditionally
associated with education.
Significance of Recognizing Men's
Contributions
It is essential to recognize and value
men's contributions to education for
several reasons:
• Diversity and Representation:
Gender-balanced representation in
education promotes diversity of
perspectives and experiences,
enriching learning environments
for students and educators alike.
• Role Models for Students: Male
educators serve as positive role
models for students of all genders,
challenging stereotypes and
fostering inclusive attitudes
towards gender diversity.
• Professional Development:
Acknowledging men's contribu-
tions to education encourages
career advancement, leadership
opportunities, and professional
recognition within the field.
Promoting Inclusive Practices in
Education
To promote inclusivity and value men's
contributions to education, proactive
measures can be taken:
• Diverse Recruitment Strategies:
Implementing recruitment
strategies that actively encourage
men to pursue careers in educa-
tion, particularly in
underrepresented areas such as
early childhood and primary
education.
• Professional Development and
Support: Providing mentorship,
networking opportunities, and
professional development
programs tailored to the needs of
male educators.
• Addressing Bias and Stereo-
types: Challenging gender
stereotypes and promoting
gender-neutral language and
14 | April 2024

#135, 5th Main, 6th Cross, Malleshpalaya, New Thippasandra Post,
Near C V Raman Nagar, Bangalore- 560 075
Years

Learning isn't just about
academics; it's also about the
all-around development of
mental and physical abilities. Teaching
students how to manage their
emotions, show empathy, and build
positive relationships sets them up for
success both in and out of the
classroom.
To achieve this goal, Prof. Alok
Kumar Chakrawal, the Vice-
Chancellor of Guru Ghasidas
Vishwavidyalaya, has transformed the
teaching philosophy to align with
students' psychology.
Since his childhood, Prof. Alok dreamt
of being a teacher. In the process, he
became an educator and academic
administrator. Apart from his parents,
he was inspired by many, especially his
teachers during high school and
college, who instilled in him the spirit
to be an educator and make the
changes in the world he wanted to see.
The pursuit of education to transform
laymen into skilled individuals and
learned individuals into complete
personalities has been the motivating
factor behind his selection of education
as a career.
Making Teaching-learning Process
Engaging
Teaching philosophy constitutes a
psychological process whereby the
Vice-Chancellor,
Guru Ghasidas Vishwavidyalaya
I have adopted strategies like virtual
learning, ﬂipping classrooms, personalized
learning, and project-based learning to
inculcate the best among the students for a
be er outcome during the pandemic.
Transforming Laymen into Skilled Individuals
16 | April 2024

teacher needs to understand the
students first before engaging them in
the teaching-learning process. There
are several moments where Prof. Alok
realized that his teaching philosophy
had to be transformed to align with the
student’s psychology.
Their ‘mental mapping’ remains the
core thrust of his teaching philosophy.
For instance, one of his students was
more interested in starting his own
business instead of paying dedicated
attention to his studies. It was a
satisfying opportunity for Prof. Alok to
guide him in initiating his start-up, and
today, the student is a successful
businessman with a sizeable net worth.
Adapting Innovative Strategies
Prof. Alok emphasizes the reciprocal
nature of teaching and learning,
particularly in the context of the
pandemic, which has necessitated a
significant shift in the education
landscape. He highlights the need for
teachers to adapt their pedagogical
approaches to remote learning and to
effectively manage their time to cater
to student needs and administrative
requirements. In response to these
challenges, he has developed strategies
such as organizing online classes
through ICT platforms at flexible times
for students and dedicating daytime
hours to student interaction and
administrative tasks. Prof. Chakrawal's
insights have been shared in various
academic forums and reflect his
adopted during the pandemic as a
stress-relieving strategy and to develop
deeper interaction among them.
Fostering a Culture of Inclusion
Prof. Alok believes that Diversity,
Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) is itself a
journey; it can’t be a destination or a
finishing line but a continuous
yearning for lasting and real
improvement. In an environment of
immense diversity like India, the job of
a teacher in ensuring DEI becomes
even tougher.
As a teacher, Prof. Alok has always
taken the humanist path beyond
ideological bigots and guided his
students in the right direction. For him,
a society is like a chain, and for a chain
proactive approach to addressing the
evolving demands of the education
sector.
Prof. Alok has implemented innovative
teaching practices like student
engagement through mental mapping
to promote a culture of innovation and
creativity for better academic
outcomes. He also aims to instill a
problem-solving mindset. Prof. Alok
has adopted strategies like virtual
learning, flipping classrooms,
personalized learning, and project-
based learning to inculcate the best
among the students for a better
outcome during the pandemic. The
Jigsaw method of teaching, where a
student teaches another student, was

to be healthy and strong, every part of
it needs to be strong. Likewise, every
individual has to be strong if society
has to be sound, strong, and coherent.
This “Idea of Chain” philosophy with
his students to arouse human values in
them and to be good, pleasant, and
benevolent to all.
Molding Careers through Mind
Mapping
Prof. Alok Kumar Chakrawal has a
deep-rooted passion for teaching and
considers himself a teacher first and
foremost. He believes that the greatest
accomplishment as a teacher is to help
students help themselves and mold
their careers through mind mapping.
Prof. Chakrawal prioritizes being a
"wholesome" teacher for his students,
living their lives, dreaming of their
aspirations, and working towards their
outcomes.
He has shared his expertise in various
academic forums, including as a guest
speaker at a national-level webinar on
'Excellence in Teaching in Higher
Education Institutions' organized by
Kashmir University's UGC-Human
Resource Development Centre
(HRDC).
Virtual learning mode, which started
during the pandemic, has also extended
into classrooms after the pandemic.
The use of ICT tools for presentation in
classes, students’ seminars, and
interactions during formative
assessment has aided both students and
teachers in garnering maximum
attention and fostering active
discussions.
ICT has allowed students to collaborate
on different assignments with the help
of Google Meet/Google Classroom and
Zoom platforms. The incorporation of
audio-visual lectures in smart
classrooms has enabled students to
showcase their best, facilitating the
adapting to changes in technologies
and teaching-learning methods. To be a
role model for the student, the teacher
needs to be a self-motivator, and that
can only be possible when the educator
has the urge to learn new things and
incorporate them with the existing ones
while disseminating knowledge with
learning methods before the students
for better educational outcomes.
Prioritizing Societal Well-being
Holistic education has always been the
root of human development and
progress since the inception of human
society. Over centuries, education has
been imparted in different forms and
styles. India had the Gurukul education
system; in Europe, a different form of
education was prevalent.
realization of optimal attention for
their presentations.
The Lifelong Pursuit of Knowledge
Prof. Alok believes that learning, like
the pursuit of knowledge, is a lifelong
process. It is a continual habit for both
personal and professional
development. For an educator, learning
is perhaps the most rewarding
satisfaction. Since the method of
education is changing from the reliance
upon traditional classroom to remote
learning and blended mode of teaching,
teachers, irrespective of their age and
levels, need to know the art of
disseminating education and to adjust
to the changing teaching environment.
The teacher must possess the aptitude
for learning to transition from the old
teaching methods to new ones,
The pursuit of educa on to transform
laymen into skilled individuals and learned
individuals into complete personali es has
been the mo va ng factor behind my
selec on of educa on as a career.
18 | April 2024

Prof. Alok Kumar Chakrawal believes
that the primary focus of any education
system should be individual
development and progress for societal
well-being. He emphasizes that as
societal needs and requirements
change, the education system must also
evolve to support human progress.
A Forward-thinking Approach
With the rapid advancement of
technology, AI, and robotics, Prof.
Alok anticipates that the education
system will need to adapt to
incorporate personalized learning,
simulation-based learning, and
dynamic education for skill
development to ensure the holistic
development of students. His insights
reflect a forward-thinking approach to
the future of education, considering the
impact of technological advancements
on the learning environment and the
them to transform their ideas into
innovative solutions.
To look at things differently and
develop alternative perspectives about
things before them in an age where
everything is available on digital
platforms is the prerequisite of a
learned and educated individual.
Hence, cultivating creativity in
students while ensuring they acquire
standardized testing capabilities is
essential for making them both skilled
and creative at the same time.
Education as Ever-evolving Process
Prof. Alok emphasizes the fact that
education is an eternal and ever-
evolving process. It is a continuous
process for the personal and
professional development of an
individual, making it possible to groom
them into a consummate person. To
achieve that, the mental mapping of
students is essential to understand their
psychology. He gives the following
advice to young educators:
• “To be a teacher is to live among
the students, spread love, be
organized, treat all alike, and get
to know your students and their
learning styles for a better and
more efficient academic
outcome.”
• “Develop a collaborative
classroom, have faith in your
students, and believe in them.”
• “Pitch different ideas, ask your
students to counter them, debate
and discuss them to generate new
and innovative ideas.”
• “Emphasize hands-on training
and foster experiential learning
among your students through
project-based training.”
• “Be organized, have fun, be
flexible, and enjoy the creativity
of your students without making
fun of them.”
• “Stay strong and never give up.”
need for adaptive educational
strategies.
Students are molded by their teachers,
and the impact of teachers on students
lasts for a lifetime. Prof. Alok recalls
how he groomed a number of students
to become the best of individuals,
fostering wholesomeness in both their
personal and professional lives.
He also believes that apart from
meeting standardized testing
requirements, prioritizing the
cultivation of creativity and critical
thinking is essential for developing
students to adapt to the changes of the
world of tomorrow. ‘Inquire, imagine,
and reflect’ remains the trinity of
critical thinking that needs to be
developed among the students to help
them understand their limits and enable
I have groomed a number of
students to become the best of
individuals, fostering wholesomeness
in both their personal and
professional lives.

22 | April 2024
The Importance of
Male Perspective

raditionally, classrooms
Thave echoed with a
predominantly female
voice. While educators have
nurtured countless young minds,
a vital perspective has often
been missing: the male
perspective. This isn't to
diminish the incredible
contributions of female teachers
but to recognize the unique
value men bring to the
educational landscape.
Male educators offer a different
lens through which students can
view the world. Their
experiences and communication
styles can resonate with students
who might not always connect
with traditional teaching
methods. This diversity of
approaches fosters a richer
learning environment, catering
to a wider range of student
personalities and learning styles.
Seeing men engaged in
Cultivating Inclusive
Learning
Environments
combination of experiences and
viewpoints that each educator
brings to the classroom.
Join in understanding the
significance of male perspectives
in fostering inclusive learning
environments and highlight the
benefits of integrating diverse
perspectives in education.
Understanding Inclusive
An inclusive learning
environment is characterized by:
• Respect and Equity: All
individuals are treated with
respect and fairness, and
barriers to learning and
participation are minimized.
• Diversity of Identities: The
environment acknowledges
and values the diverse
identities, experiences,
andbackgrounds of students,
educators, and staff.
nurturing and intellectual
pursuits challenges stereotypes
and broadens students'
understanding of masculinity.
This can have a profound impact
on a boy's self-esteem and future
aspirations. Including the male
perspective also strengthens
classroom discussions and
curriculum development. By
incorporating diverse
viewpoints, educators can create
a more balanced learning
experience that reflects the
complexities of the real world.
This prepares students to
navigate a society where success
comes from the richness of
diverse ideas and approaches.
Ultimately, recognizing the
importance of the male
perspective isn't about gender
competition, but about creating a
more inclusive and effective
learning environment for all. It's
about celebrating the unique

• Collaborative and
Supportive Culture: There
is a sense of community
and support among all
members, promoting
collaboration, empathy, and
mutual understanding.
The Correlation: Importance
of Male Perspective
The correlation between
cultivating inclusive learning
environments and the
importance of the male
perspective lies in the
recognition of the value of
diverse viewpoints in education.
While efforts to promote
inclusivity often focus on gender
equity and supporting
underrepresented groups, the
male perspective is equally
important for achieving true
diversity and fostering well-
rounded educational
experiences. Embracing the
male perspective enriches
discussions, promotes critical
thinking, and enhances the
overall learning environment for
everyone.
Benefits of Integrating Male
Perspectives
Integrating male perspectives in
inclusive learning environments
offers several benefits:
• Diverse Role Models: Male
educators and mentors serve
as positive role models for
students, challenging
stereotypes and expanding
students' understanding of
gender roles.
• Balanced Perspectives:
Male perspectives contribute
to balanced discussions and
decision-making processes,
enriching classroom
dynamics and promoting
explore masculinity and
male experiences alongside
femininity and gender
diversity.
• Diverse Guest Speakers:
Inviting male guest speakers
from various professions and
backgrounds to share their
experiences and insights
with students.
Conclusion
Cultivating inclusive learning
environments requires a
commitment to embracing
diverse perspectives, including
the male perspective, in
education. By valuing and
integrating male viewpoints,
educational institutions can
create more enriching, equitable,
and supportive environments for
all learners. Moving forward,
the future of inclusive education
will benefit from ongoing efforts
to promote gender diversity,
challenge stereotypes, and foster
meaningful dialogue and
collaboration among students
and educators.
The future of cultivating
will be characterized by
continuous efforts to promote
gender equity, diversity, and
inclusion in education. By
leveraging male perspectives as
integral components of inclusive
education, we can create
transformative learning
experiences that empower all
individuals to thrive and
contribute positively to society.
Through collaborative initiatives
and ongoing advocacy,
educators and institutions can
lead the way in fostering
that celebrate diversity and
promote equality for all.
empathy and understanding
among students.
• Addressing Gender
Stereotypes: By valuing
male perspectives,
educational institutions can
actively combat gender
stereotypes and promote
gender equality in
educational settings.
Strategies for Cultivating
Inclusive Learning
Environments
To cultivate inclusive learning
environments that incorporate
male perspectives, educators and
institutions can adopt the
following strategies:
• Promoting Diversity in
Hiring: Actively recruit and
retain male educators and
administrators to diversify
the teaching staff and
leadership roles.
• Encouraging Dialogue and
Reflection: Create
opportunities for open
dialogue and reflection on
gender dynamics,
stereotypes, and biases
within the educational
community.
• Incorporating Diverse
Content: Integrate diverse
perspectives and voices into
the curriculum, including
literature, history, and social
studies that highlight male
contributions and
experiences.
Successful Integration of Male
Perspectives
Several educational institutions
have successfully integrated
male perspectives into inclusive
learning environments:
• Gender Studies Programs:
Universities offering gender
studies programs that
24 | April 2024

IIM Rohtak, like all the other IIMs
in India is carrying the legacy of
transformative education. At the
heart of this transformation is the noble
pursuit of its Director—Prof Dheeraj
Sharma. Prof Dheeraj aims to impart
high quality management education
and training.
Till his high school, Prof Dheeraj’s
only ambition was to join the army. He
qualified and even joined the National
Defense Academy, Khadakwasla, to
fulfill his dream. However, destiny had
other plans for him. It was the time
when the corporate sector in India
started to boom and provide a window
of opportunities in business world.
Consequently, pursued
Prof Dheeraj
higher education with a desire to work
in corporations. It was only a chance
meeting with a US based Indian
professor that made him drawn to
pursuing a career in academics.
He taught his first class as a doctoral
candidate in the US, and it turned out
to be an exhilarating experience. Later,
with the guidance of several top
management professors and his hard
work, he researched a novel area.
These transformative interactions
kindled a similar deep-seated passion
for fostering intellectual growth and
facilitating transformative learning
experiences by becoming an
academician. Engaging with students
in the quest for knowledge not only
stimulates his intellectual curiosity but
also allows him to inspire others to
embark on their scholarly journeys.
Tackling Adversities Effectively
At the beginning of his doctoral studies
at Louisiana Tech University in the
U.S., Prof Dheeraj experienced a
pivotal moment when he was assigned
Prof Dheeraj Sharma
Facilitating Transformative Learning Experiences
Prof Dheeraj Sharma
Director,
IIM Rohtak
26 | April 2024

to teach a class and he felt nervous
because of his non-American accent
and little knowledge about US
business. He also recalls how the class
size was almost a hundred. Instructing
these many students, most of them
were older to him, was a big challenge
for Prof Dheeraj. However, this
incident imparted a crucial lesson in
ensuring the relevance and relatability
of his teaching materials.
Subsequently, recognized
Prof Dheeraj
the necessity of anchoring his teaching
methodologies in research and real-
world examples. To achieve this, he
devoted considerable effort to delving
into the literature on markets,
consumer behaviour, and brands,
enriching his instructional approach
and fostering a deeper understanding
of the practical applications of
academic concepts. Towards the end of
that course, he received appreciation
from many students, some of them are
still in touch with him.
Ideal Integration of Technology
The role of Prof Dheeraj was integral
in adapting to changes and bringing
innovation during the pandemic. The
shift from face-to-face to online
learning was a huge challenge for IIM
Unlike many institutions whose faculty
delivered lectures through studios, IIM
Rohtak conducted online case
discussions with faculty present in the
classroom, similar to pre-covid days.
The faculty wrote responses on
whiteboards, and the camera moved
automatically to match the faculty’s
movements. A large screen in front of
the faculty enabled them to ask any
student and engage in discussion.
Online learning platforms were used to
connect the learners and faculty
members. Features like break-out
rooms were leveraged to ensure
effective group discussions. IIM
Rohtak’s proprietary e-learning
platform was developed and leveraged
to conduct assessments, share teaching
material, and facilitate intellectual
interaction through discussion boards.
Nurturing Diverse Cultures Under
One Roof
IIM Rohtak's remarkable student
diversity is one of its greatest
strengths. The institute firmly believes
that academic, geographic, and gender
diversity in the classroom helps make
the learning process inclusive. The
institute under the guidance of Prof
Dheeraj has successfully sustained a
Rohtak. The institute primarily utilizes
case-based pedagogy, requiring
discussion. To ensure a high quality of
education during the COVID-19
pandemic, IIM Rohtak leveraged its
learnings from delivering online
courses and invested in digital
infrastructure to replicate the physical
classroom digitally. This included tech-
enabled classrooms with computers,
audio-visual equipment, smart
interactive boards, simulation-based
learning platforms, and online
internships.
My role is to act as a
catalyst for innovation
and continuous
learning, enabling
students to thrive in a
rapidly evolving world.
“
“

providing the institute with an enviable
assortment of diverse distinguished
foreign academicians as guests and
visiting faculty. The institute has
actively promoted quality education
among diverse and marginalized
people by having programs for women
from rural J&K and the northeast.
Prioritizing Research
Director Prof. Dheeraj believes that
research is one of the most important
parts of the work of an academician.
Consequently, Prof. Dheeraj believes
his most significant achievement was
publishing his work in FT-50 journals.
FT-50 journal list contains arguably the
most important, impactful, and
challenging to publish. It is a rare treat
even for the most prolific management
researchers to produce an article in
high level of student diversity in terms
of regional, gender, and academic
representation.
The institute has a record-breaking
representation of 78% females in its
latest PGP 14 Batch. The pan-national
character of IIMs and its outreach
activities have ensured representation
from 24 states and UTs. IIM Rohtak
has an enviable collection of adjunct
faculties from multiple countries and
different walks of life, such as the
armed forces, central government, and
corporations. It also has nearly 33%
representation of females among full-
time faculty. Converting a problem into
an opportunity, the institute reached
out to global academicians during the
COVID-19 pandemic, who continue to
be associated with IIM Rohtak,
I am happy to
state that the
research that I
value has also
found some
resonance with
industry and
society.
“
“
28 | April 2024

journals listed in the FT-50 list. In the
field of business management, one
must be able to produce and publish
impactful research.
It is no surprise that many articles by
Prof. Dheeraj have been published in
F -50 journals. The research that he
T
values has found resonance with
industry and society.
In addition, Prof. Dheeraj was able to
contribute to the development of IIM
Rohtak. In 2017, IIM Rohtak was
operating out of one rental building,
and today, it has a state-of-the-art 200-
acre campus. Between 2017 and 2024,
the institute has had a fivefold increase
in the number of students in various
long-duration programs. Faculty
research output in top journals has
increased more than tenfold between
2017 and 2024. The Average salary for
on-campus MBA students nearly
doubled between 2017 and 2024.
Continuing the Rich Legacy
IIM Rohtak offers consultancy and
executive education to many managers,
corporations, governments, and PSUs,
among others. Its executive education
consultancy revenue increased nearly
tenfold between 2017 and 2024.
Finally, only 9 female students in the
batch graduated in 2018. In the last
four batches of the MBA, it had more
than 50% female students; in the 2023
batch, the institute had a record of 78%
female students. The aforementioned,
by any means, are not insignificant
achievements.
Prof. Dheeraj has big plans for the
future of IIM Rohtak. Over the next ten
years, he foresees education
transforming greater personalization
and accessibility, driven by significant
breakthroughs in technology.
Integrating virtual and augmented
reality, artificial intelligence, and
adaptive learning systems will
Between 2017 and
2024, we have had a
fivefold increase in
the number of
students in various
long-duration
programs. Faculty
research output in
top journals has
increased more than
tenfold between 2017
and 2024.
“
“

profoundly transform the learning
process for students, enabling them to
customize education to suit their
unique requirements and preferences.
The improved access to information is
increasingly shifting the role of
educators from content providers to
mentors and facilitators. This trend is
going to accelerate in the coming
years. Prof. Dheeraj aims to continue
providing mentorship and guidance,
leveraging technology to enhance
communication and collaboration
between academe, industry, and
government. His role is to act as a
catalyst for innovation and continuous
learning, enabling students to thrive in
a rapidly evolving world.
Prof. Dheeraj is an inspiration not just
to students but also to educators
of academic learning.
Therefore, bring your and others'
research to the classroom.
• Positive relationship: Foster
positive relationships with your
students, colleagues,
acquaintances, and mentors. These
connections will support you
professionally and personally
throughout your life.
• Passion: Remember why you
chose a career in education and
stay passionate about positively
impacting your students' lives.
aspiring to bring meaningful changes
in the ﬁeld. His advice to new
educators embarking on their careers in
education is:
• Pique your and students’curiosity:
An educator needs to be curious
himself/herself and facilitate class
discussion in a way that arouses
students’ curiosity.
• Prepare, plan, and be Practical.
Prepare sessions in advance, plan
the ﬂow of content, and engage
with veteran teachers to master the
craft of teaching. Make learning
contextual. Observation is the best
way to identify research problems,
and discussing research problems
in the classroom is one of the best
ways to demonstrate implications
30 | April 2024

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One of such institutions that have
initiated the cause of providing
education at reasonable rates is
Mr Pravin Biyani Founder
, of
LearnBix Biyani Group of
and
Education. Mr Biyani is one of the
most prominent figures of the Indian
education system and has posed as a
role model for many.
Let's have an insightful look at Mr
Pravin Balakisan Biyani and his
ventures of the education sector.
Seeing the Horizon
Mr Pravin Biyani entered the field of
education, inspired by his grandfather's
dream to launch affordable education
services. The objective was simple, 'To
create a path of learning without any
financial barriers' and yet tough to
achieve.
Where many Ed-Tech giants were
catering to the need of the rich crowd,
LearnBix stayed true to the root
inspiration. Currently, LearnBix
provides its services at ₹1 per day,
reaching almost every segment of
society by providing impartial
education. Despite the low cost, the
institution provided supreme content
and educational services and has
continued to do so.
India is the second largest
populated nation with a
population of more than 1.38
billion, out of which 66% are
youngsters, out of which 40% are
children aged 6 to 14. Clearly, the
highest number of school-going
children belongs to India, around 250
million. It could be said that India has
the largest amount of studying classes
and hence a large education sector.
With this large of a sector adjoining are
innumerable opportunities. The nation
has attracted several Ed-Tech
companies creating their domain and
flourishing businesses in the
educational field. This has led to a
more aware and better quality of
education for those who can afford it,
while those with financial restrictions
could not compete with them. One of
the major reasons for this is the prices
of several courses touching the sky.
Middle-class and lower-middle-class
students might face difficulties
handling such situations and are forced
to give up better opportunities.
However, this realization is far awake
among Indian educators. Many Indian
educators have come up with their own
platforms providing equal opportunity
and education to the students. The aim
is to provide equal opportunities and
affordable education.
32 | April 2024

aligned with the NEP-20 in the future,
thus supporting education even more.
Opportunities to Sea
With India's huge young population,
every parent desire quality educational
services for their ward. It was the point
that Mr Biyani tackled with his quality
services. He realized that if quality
educational services were provided at
an affordable price, it would generate
great opportunities in the Indian
educational field. So true to his
assumption happened the miracle
which benefitted numerous students
across the nation.
Swimming Through the Challenges
With foreign funds coming in, Ed-Tech
has become an extremely competitive
industry. India sees new changes in the
education sector along with some
massive marketing investments from
global giants. These large amounts of
investments in marketing are hurdles
for the new institutions due to excess
financial expenditure.
experts from Kota, short notes for
revision on the concepts, adaptive
assessments and tests for the practice,
Concepts Shots, Mind-maps, sample
papers, NCERT solutions, 24/7 Doubts
Assistance, and much more.
Currently, the institution is providing
educational services which help the
students to prepare their school
syllabus along with competitive exam
preparation. The student can achieve
success in various exams like NTSE,
Dr Homi Bhabha Bal Vaidyanik Exam,
Scholarship, Olympiad, and much
more after studying through LearnBix.
The offering services of the institution
are for B-2-B and B-2-C segments. In
the B-2-B Segment, white-labelled
content services are offered for various
educational institutions, publication
houses, and Ed-Tech companies.
Mr Biyani plans to launch low-cost and
much more effective courses for
coding, robotics, and entrepreneurship
From Dawn
Biyani Group of Education started six
years ago on the 2 of June 2016, with
nd
the focus point of changing the way of
school education delivery and
replacing it with innovative services.
The thought worked best, and where
the group started with mere two
students, today it has reached an
enrollment number of 10,000+
students.
After working and creating a
successful offline learning model, the
institution entered the online learning
model two years ago. The company has
achieved remarkable success with its
strong and modern infrastructure in
both online and offline modes of
education.
Today, Biyani Group of Education has
expanded its wings as Biyani Digital
Smart Coaching, Biyani Career
Institute, Biyani Educational Services,
Biyani Eduventure, and LearnBix.
LearnBix: The Rising Sun
Developed by the renowned Biyani
Group of Education, LearnBix, ensures
all concepts are well learned, revised,
practised, and assessed. This type of
learning helps to build a strong
foundation for various competitive
exams.
It is a modern and innovative learning
app for CBSE, ICSE & State Board
Students catering to the needs of
students from 5 to 10 grade. The
th th
services are currently offered via
various models like android base
applications, web applications, and
SmartTV content.
The focus of the institution lies in
Mathematics, Science, English
Grammar, and Competitive Exam
Foundation. LearnBix offers thousands
of high-quality video lectures from
34 | April 2024

Mr Biyani believes that his major
marketing strategy is the results of his
organization. LearnBix focuses on its
clients and their demands which
gradually has earned them infinite
positive words of honour, making the
work easier.
As Mr Biyani says, "Good feedback
shows better results than an
advertisement of lakh rupees. We focus
on every feedback."
Recently Collected Pebbles
Recently featured as 100 Influential
People in India by Fox Story India, Mr
Biyani has also received an award as
Asia's Finest Educator Award from
Hummingbird Education Ltd.
Mr Biyani dedicates his success to his
core team for proper planning and top
results in various exams. It could be
assured with his continuous efforts, and
many more awards are to come his
way.
Opining the Change in Waves
Mr Biyani opines, "As the world, we
live in changes to embrace tech
futures, the education field is also
experiencing the major changeover."
To his belief, he expresses that prior to
COVID-19, hybrid learning was at the
seed stage but only after covid hybrid
learning has evolved into a new
concept. The students and the parents
are looking for solutions that would
provide them with both online and
offline learning benefits. The usage of
artificial intelligence is improving the
better result analysis and helping in
improving learning outcomes.
He very clearly sees the opportunities
in the changing waves of education.
Educational Shore of India
As Mr Biyani believes, the overall
education system in India is at par with
the international standards because
what suits America may not apply to
India. He, therefore, considers that
Indians should better focus on one
nation, one board, and one exam. It
will help in standardizing the content.
And he strongly puts that there should
be more focus on the practical way of
learning.
Balancing the Heat and Warmth
Being one of the most prominent
personalities and in a role of
responsibility, the balance between
work life and personal life often shakes
up; however it is not the case for
Keep your
eyes and ears open
and always be
quick to adapt to
the changing times.
Mr Biyani. He plans his activities of
the week every Monday, utilizing
various technology products and
services to properly plan the activities.
He proudly expresses, "Every day, our
family eats food together, which
improves our bonding. With my family,
I enjoy outings, movies, and hoteling.
I believe in completion of tasks on time
so that it won't hamper my private
life."
Ad-virtue
For the new and future entrepreneurs,
Mr Biyani suggests working in the
industry for a few days before starting
the business as it would help in
building one's personality with all the
traits required for that business.
While advising and adding virtues to
the personalities of youngsters, Mr
Biyani says, "Look around; there are
many problems in society, and you can
provide them with innovative and
affordable solutions. Another piece of
advice would be that stay customer-
focused. Solve all their queries. Give
them the best services and don't ignore
their complaints. Keep your eyes and
ears open and always be quick to
adapt to the changing times."

Top 5 Remarkable Men in Education - 2024 Updated 1 (2)_compressed.pdf

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