SCERT-Steering Committee Selection Workshop: Experience

Setting the Stage: Upon stepping onto the premises of SCERT, a flood of memories from my earlier involvements washed over me. These recollections spanned a period starting from 2007 and culminating in more active participation between 2016 and 2019. During this journey, I had the privilege of being guided by a seasoned colleague, Mr Vidyadhar Shukla (Former Deputy Director, SCERT). His adept guidance led me through the intricate landscape of education. His humility and depth of knowledge, acquired from substantial contributions to initiatives like DPEP, had an enduring impact on my perspective.

My interactions with Mr Shukla allowed me to explore various departments within SCERT, offering me a unique insight into its inner workings. This experience further solidified my comprehension of SCERT's functioning. It was a valuable complement to my academic pursuits, which had previously led me to engage with the educational field through classroom experiences facilitated by distinguished educators such as Prof Rohit Dhankar (Former Head of Academics at Azim Premji University and contributor to the NCF2005 through position paper on Aims of Education). 

The Importance of the Workshop: A prevailing truth holds that good policies are insufficient without effective implementation. This selection workshop embodied this truth, as it sought to identify those who would shape the State Curriculum Framework. As Mr Suraj Mandhare (Commissioner-Education, Maharashtra State) mentioned, this framework would not only impact the next generation's education but also influence the trajectory of Maharashtra's educational landscape for decades.

The Transparent and Thoughtful Process: The selection process, as meticulously planned as it was, started with shortlisting 75 candidates from a pool of 6035 applicants. The day-long workshop was divided into six groups, each assigned to engaging activities. Dr Neha Belsari (Dy Director, SCERT)) and Dr Patil (Director, SCERT), along with the SCERT Maharashtra team, orchestrated the event brilliantly. Their efforts were palpable, and I wholeheartedly laud their commitment to a transparent and enriching process.

A Learning Experience: Dr Neha Belsare's opening words set the tone: this process was meant to be a learning experience for all. And indeed, it was. With each activity, I realized that not only was my domain expertise being evaluated, but I was also being challenged to interact with technology, a vital skill in modern education. The activities encompassed group tasks, analyzing educational data, conducting literature reviews, and presenting policy recommendations.

Seamless Execution and Transformation: The logistical excellence displayed during the workshop was impressive. From document verification to activity allocation, everything was impeccably planned. The use of names of educational pioneers for group identification was a clever touch. The previously subpar facilities had transformed, with digital infrastructure, accessible Wi-Fi, and improved attitudes all evident. The leadership's commitment to change and progress was unmistakable.

Appreciating the Team: The SCERT team exhibited remarkable dedication. Mr Abhay Parihar's communication prowess in answering the queries of all participants made it accessible to all candidates. The meticulous document scrutiny led by Mr Sandip Mule, Mr Dev, Mr Nandala Balmani, Mr Gavali, Ms Apurva Kulkarni, Ms Seema Bendre, Ms Vrushali Gayakwad, Mr Shyam Raut, Ms Dipali Jogdand, Ms Aruna Londhe, Ms Dr Vidya Borse, and Ms Padmja Lamrud ensured the right selection.

The Future Ahead: As Mr Ramakant Kathmore (Dy Director, SCERT) aptly stated, just as not every cricketer in the squad plays every match, not every candidate would be selected. However, that doesn't diminish the capability of those not chosen; their expertise might just be meant for another moment. My future in the final 15 remains uncertain, but this experience has ignited a fire within me to persist in my 15-year journey of enriching public education.

Conclusion: My participation in the Steering Committee for the SCF-FS selection workshop was not just an event but a transformative journey. The workshop exemplified the synergy between policy and practice, highlighting the essential nature of implementation. It also showcased the power of collaboration, transparent processes, and thoughtful planning. As Maharashtra embarks on a path to redefine education, I am hopeful that the spirit of dedication and transformation will continue to guide this endeavour.

#EducationTransformation #NEP2020 #SCERTMaharashtra #CurriculumFramework #CollaborationForChange #TransparentProcesses #DedicatedLeadership #EducationalJourney #PolicyImplementation #EducationalInnovation #PublicEducationEnhancement