Diversity, Inclusion and Education

Following the 75th Independence Day of India, a country with a rich diversity of people in terms of backgrounds, religions and beliefs, this week many communities will have experienced a variety of holidays: the Parsi New Year (16 August), also known as Nowruz or Navroz; Ashura (19 August), the 10th day of the first month (‘Muharram’) in the Muslim calendar; the Varalakshmi Vratam festival (20 August), observed, especially by women, in the South Indian states; and Onam (22 August), the ancient harvest festival celebrated by many Keralites through a range of cultural events for 10 days.

Also on 22 August it is the ‘International Day Commemorating the Victims of Acts of Violence Based on Religion or Belief’, adopted by the United Nations General Assembly in 2019. This annual awareness day aims at not only being an act of remembrance, but also looks to combat all forms of intolerance and discrimination based on religion or beliefs, as well as improving inclusion. Freedom of association and expression are central for building a dialogue, eliminating all forms of violence, while at the same time building bridges, strengthening democracy and generating positive developments. Thus, improving everyone’s well-being is not just about tolerating or accepting differences, but about embracing diversity. 

So why is diversity and inclusiveness important to education and students, as well as all people around the world?
Although there are a countless number of benefits, what follows are essential and key ideas from the Senior Leadership Team of the school.  

Meeting others and discussion-based learning is important to teaching and learning in all Grades at TISB. Having many different ideas and voices opens doors to new issues and problem statements, as well as new solutions and possibilities. “Diverse groups are more innovative than homogeneous ones and hence the journey and process of decision-making promotes creativity, problem solving and innovation”, says Dr Caroline, explaining that studying and interacting with people from different backgrounds, prepares people for a modern world full of diversity. 

It all starts in the Primary Years, as students’ development follows them for the rest of their lives. “Learning about perspectives from all around the world, fosters a true understanding of ideas and concepts that transcends time and space”, says Ms Emily, who believes that it builds social competences that are crucial skills for 21st century life. It is important that students are open and respectful of a diverse set of views, opinions and perspectives. “This will ensure they have a more well-rounded view of the world and help build empathy for what others may be feeling or expressing”, says Ms Amba, who thinks it is imperative that this is instilled at an early age. 

Embracing different people, perspectives and ideas, are central throughout the course of one’s time at TISB; from PY, through the Middle School and all the way to the IBDP, as it prepares us for becoming global citizens. “The aim of all education is to develop internationally minded people who in their intellectual humility question their ideological and personal assumptions while developing an appreciation of the diversity and richness of cultural perspectives”, says Mr Santanu, and cites how the IB mission statement encourages “students across the world to become active, compassionate and lifelong learners who understand that other people, with their differences, can also be right.” 

At the heart of global and international education here at TISB, is giving back to the world. Therefore, student initiatives are both encouraged and supported by the school. “Most of our students’ initiatives focus on the core theme of inclusion as well as giving back, respecting, and making a difference to the lives of other individuals in their community”, says Mr Naveen, explaining how thinking critically about one’s own beliefs and cultures helps us perceive the world with a fresh outlook. After all, a key aspect of being a global citizen is to be understanding of how the development and well-being of others is beneficial – not only to those who are vulnerable and facing challenges, but to create a better and more sustainable world for everyone.