A Principals’ Conclave was held from April 17 to 19, 2017 at the Amritapuri Campus of Amrita University. The focus of the conclave was to explore and learn the role of the Principal both as an institution-builder and a moulder of the minds of future generations. Many distinguished speakers spelt out their thinking on the subject.

Swami Turiyamritananda Puri explained the background to English education in India, which he said was meant to destroy our samskara. The colonialists were only interested in perpetuating their rule. They did this through misleading interpretations of the Vedas and our culture, which resulted in an inferiority complex among the Indian elite. Our people are still suffering from many shortcomings due to this legacy.

Sri Vipin P., faculty with the Amrita Center For Cyber Security Systems and Network led a session on Cyber Security. He explained the precautions that have to be taken to prevent misuse of passwords and internet accounts.

Br. Sudeep, Director, Amrita University, Amritapuri Campus exhorted the participants to develop an attitude of detached involvement. He warned not to be complacent under any circumstance.

Dr. Sajini Velayudhan, a clinical psychologist from District Hospital, Kozhenchery examined various aspects of counselling. A psychologist with social work background can handle minor behavioural disorders, while serious ones like schizophrenia, unusually violent behaviour, obsessive compulsive disorder, etc. have to be attended by a clinical psychiatrist. Undue anxiety and apprehension are other major problems. Children with low IQ take more time to learn and process their thoughts. Therefore, learning problems and intellectual disorders have to be tackled separately.

Dr. V.S. Somanath, Dean, Amrita School of Business, stressed the need for an enlightened approach to management. Western work ethics like discipline, efficiency, etc. are indeed laudable. Along with good rules and management skills, a humane approach is also required to progress from good to great. As Swamiji says in his book, ‘Colour of the Rainbow’, there should be a balance between man-made rules and dharma.

Ms. Lalita Prasad, a well experienced retired Principal outlined the qualities expected of a Principal. She said that a Principal should be strict, popular and efficient, as well as a dynamic, innovative and effective team leader. She should be a guide, motivator, disciplinarian, friend, philosopher, mentor, social leader and a role model who practices what she preaches. Self-introspection helps a lot in this. A Principal should write down the objectives for the School and for herself, charting out an action plan for providing value-based education, communicate the plan to all concerned and involve them at every stage. She should also be strong in interpersonal relationships by balancing them with due diplomatic skills, and never allow others to drive her.

Ms. Seema Lal, Head of Inclusive Education from Global Public School, Kochi discussed matters related to child behaviour and the means to influence their minds. Communication is the key here. She stressed the need to evolve an effective communication strategy based on good documentation and considering the unique mental makeup of each child. Maintaining discipline and confidentiality are very important. Only after thoroughly assessing the parameters of a child’s behaviour should a plan of intervention be thought of. Every child is a special and fine creation; “Let us all strongly believe so,” she added.