India’s classrooms are changing fast. Rote learning is out. Real-world skills are in.
Yesterday, Vijaybhoomi University in Karjat (Greater Mumbai) hosted the Education Excellence Conclave 2025 — a full-day event that brought together over 100 school leaders, teachers, and innovators to rethink how we teach.
Organized by the All India Private Schools Association (AIPSA) and powered by Vijaybhoomi — India’s first liberal professional university — the conclave wasn’t just talk. It was action.
One of the biggest moments? Honoring Dr. Pratik Mungekar FRSA — a scientist, professor, and global speaker — for his powerful insights on skills, relevance, and the learner’s voice.
Here’s everything you need to know — in plain, simple language.
What Was the Event About?
| Detail | Info |
|---|---|
| Date | November 1, 2025 |
| Location | Vijaybhoomi University, Karjat |
| Theme | From Rote to Real-World Learning |
| Organizers | AIPSA + Vijaybhoomi University |
| Attendees | 100+ school principals & educators |
The goal? Move beyond memorization. Build critical thinking, digital skills, and student confidence.
Star of the Show: Dr. Pratik Mungekar
Dr. Pratik Rajan Mungekar — a PhD in Spectroscopy, international speaker, and head of research at the Naralikar-Meshkelkar Space and Innovation Centre — received the Best Educator Award.
Why him?
- He’s a scientist who teaches real-world science.
- He’s a counselor who listens to students.
- He’s a professor who bridges classroom and career.
In his acceptance speech, he said:
“This award belongs to every teacher who sparks curiosity — not just fills notebooks.”
The Big Session: “Skills, Relevance & Learner Perspective”
Dr. Mungekar led a standout panel discussion. Here’s what he said — in simple terms:
1. Skills > Marks
- AI is changing jobs.
- Students need problem-solving, coding, and teamwork — not just 90% in exams.
- Example: Use apps to run real science experiments in class.
2. Listen to Students
- Ask: “What do YOU want to learn?”
- Let students help design projects.
→ This builds ownership and reduces stress.
3. Make Learning Relevant
- Connect lessons to real life.
Example: Study climate change? Build a mini solar panel. - Teach ethics, AI safety, and global awareness early.
Who Else Spoke?
A powerhouse panel joined Dr. Mungekar:
| Name | Role | Key Idea |
|---|---|---|
| Dr. Ushavati Shetty | Founder, C4Cynergy | Moderated with energy |
| Dr. Kajal Chhatija | Academic Director | Inclusive learning for all |
| Ms. Zeenat Sayed | Principal, Podar Intl. | Hybrid learning success |
| Prof. Anurag Khare | Vijaybhoomi Faculty | Design thinking in class |
| Dr. Nicholas Correa | Finland Intl. School | Less exams, more exploration |
They debated:
→ How do we measure “readiness” beyond grades?
→ How can small schools afford tech?
→ What’s the teacher’s role in an AI world?
Why This Matters
India’s EdTech market will hit $10.4 billion in 2025. But tech alone won’t fix education.
Events like this:
- Inspire real change
- Connect urban and rural schools
- Put students first
Want to Stay Involved?
- Follow AIPSA at www.allindiaprivateschools.org
- Watch for session recordings
- Join the next conclave!
Final Thought
Dr. Mungekar left us with a challenge:
“Don’t teach for the exam. Teach for the future.”
What’s one skill you’ll bring into your classroom this week?
Drop it in the comments — let’s keep the conversation going.
P.S. Missed the event? Don’t worry. The ideas shared here can start in your school tomorrow.
