Where Intellect Meets Integrity: The Sarala Birla Gyan Jyoti Way

Sarala Birla Gyan Jyoti (SBGJ) is one of the leading schools in Northeast India, known for combining strong values with modern education. Dr. Diganta Halder, the school’s Principal, believes in helping students grow not just in academics but also as kind, responsible, and confident individuals.
In conversation with EduNE, he details out his vision for the school, the changes he has brought in, and how SBGJ is preparing young minds to face the future with purpose and confidence.

Q1: What is the core educational philosophy of Sarala Birla Gyan Jyoti (SBGJ)?
At SBGJ, we follow the motto “Gyanartha Pravesha…Sevartha Prasthan”—enter to learn, depart to serve. Our aim is to develop learners who are academically excellent, ethically grounded, and socially responsible. We blend modern pedagogical practices with Indian values to create empathetic and independent thinkers.
Q2: How does the school prepare 21st-century learners, especially in the context of Northeast India?
We nurture 21st-century competencies—critical thinking, creativity, collaboration, and communication—while keeping students rooted in their culture. Our students are equipped to compete globally and contribute meaningfully to their communities.
Q3: How does SBGJ balance traditional values with technological advancement?
We incorporate Educomp smart classrooms, digital tools, and project-based learning while retaining strong Indian cultural foundations. This balance allows students to engage deeply while staying grounded in heritage.
Q4: Can you tell us about your leadership background and what you brought to SBGJ?
Before joining SBGJ, I served as Principal of Assam Rifles Public School, Shillong, where I worked with children of defence personnel and students from underprivileged backgrounds. That experience shaped my focus on inclusive, quality education—something I continue to champion at SBGJ.
Q5: What measurable changes have you implemented at SBGJ under your leadership?
Some key outcomes include:
• Personalized Learning Plans (PLPP): Improved academic scores by 15%
• Experiential Learning Programs: Increased student participation by 30%
• Mental Health Initiatives: Reduced absenteeism by 5%
• Teacher Training: Boosted tech-enabled teaching by 40%
Q6: What kind of student-teacher dynamic does the school promote?
We believe in mentorship, not hierarchy. Teachers act as facilitators, guiding students academically, emotionally, and socially. The bond is one of mutual trust and respect.
Q7: How is the school aligning itself with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020?
We’ve redesigned our pedagogy to emphasize experiential learning, interdisciplinary projects, competency-based assessments, and skill development, fully in sync with NEP 2020.
Q8: Which academic disciplines stand out at SBGJ?
• STEM Education: Supported by advanced labs and Olympiad training
• Humanities & Languages: Debates, literature, and public speaking forums
• Interdisciplinary Learning: Thematic integration across subjects to build real-world relevance

Q9: How are students prepared for life beyond academics?
We focus on life skills like ethical decision-making, emotional resilience, teamwork, communication, and future-readiness through guidance programs and hands-on learning.
Q10: What avenues exist for co-curricular and extracurricular growth?
Our students participate in competitive sports, music, theatre, student councils, and community outreach programs, ensuring balanced development of mind, body, and spirit.
Q11: How does SBGJ prioritize student mental health and well-being?
We’ve embedded wellness into the curriculum through:
• Mindfulness and emotional mapping
• Peer mentoring
• Teacher-led wellness screening
• Parenting workshops aligned with CBSE guidelines
Q12: What kind of global exposure do students receive?
We have active partnerships with AFS India, Asia Kakehashi, British Council, and LeapEd. Students engage in international exchange, SDG-linked projects, and intercultural collaborations.
Q13: What role does the school play in educational transformation across the Northeast?
SBGJ serves as a model for educational excellence in the region. By focusing on quality, access, and innovation, we are helping raise the bar for learning outcomes across the Northeast.
Q14: How does the school engage with parents, alumni, and the local community?
Through PTMs, alumni reunions, social impact campaigns like #PeriodCupCause, parenting workshops, and community forums, we ensure everyone is an active stakeholder in the child’s journey.

Q15: What are your short- and long-term goals for the school’s development?Short-term:
• Deepen NEP integration
• Expand wellness and teacher training
Long-term:
• Establish global education partnerships
• Develop inclusive outreach centers for underprivileged learners
• Advance infrastructure with AI and future tech
Q16: What message would you like to share with parents and prospective students?
SBGJ is more than a school—it’s a place where intellect meets integrity, and innovation meets compassion. Join us in building a generation that learns with joy and leads with purpose.