Patna: Xavier University, Patna marked World Education Day with a Principal’s Conclave focused on “Adaptive and Strategic Leadership in a Changing Landscape”, bringing together school leaders and educators to reflect on the transformation sweeping through India’s education system.
The event opened with a welcome address from Fr Dr Martin Poras SJ, Vice Chancellor of Xavier University, who underscored the need for deeper collaboration between higher education institutions and schools. He assured principals that the university would continue to support efforts to enhance teaching and learning, particularly as new technologies reshape educational models.
“Strengthening the educational ecosystem requires partnership and openness,” he said.
‘Leadership begins with listening’
The keynote lecture was delivered by Dr Nitin Puri, Director of the National Institute of Electronics and Information Technology (NIELIT). Calling on education leaders to move beyond familiar routines, he emphasised compassion, courage and commitment as foundational qualities of effective leadership.
“A leader who truly listens stands at the heart of transformative change,” he said, urging principals to embrace continuous adaptation.
Panel explores data, policy and long-term planning
A panel discussion followed on “How to Make Data-Informed Decisions, Execute Policy-Driven Change, and Plan Long-Term School Strategies.”
Panellists included:
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Dr Nitin Puri, NIELIT
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Dr Marie D’Cruze, St Michael’s High School
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Mrs Seema Singh, St Karen’s High School
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Mrs Vinita Sharma, DAV BSEB
The session was moderated by Fr Alphonse Sebastian SJ, Controller of Examinations at Xavier University.
The speakers stressed the growing role of data-driven administration in schools, while warning against losing sight of the human dimension. They noted that while artificial intelligence offers powerful tools for efficiency and personalisation, it also presents challenges in training, implementation and ethical use.
“Data represents the individual learner,” one panellist noted, “and empathy must remain central to all decisions.”
A shared commitment to future-ready leadership
The conclave concluded with an open exchange of experiences among principals, strengthening collective resolve to cultivate adaptive, empathetic and future-ready leadership in Bihar’s schools.
