Mahatma Gandhi International School (MGIS), founded in 1998, is an award winning Public-Private Partnership model between the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation, Municipal School Board and educationalists, Dr. Pascal Chazot and Anju Kawr Chazot.

The school integrates a Center for Action Research in Education and a Center for Teacher Training. In addition to in-house training, MGIS founders and senior faculty have mentored schools of various boards to implement the MGIS trademark ‘Generated Resource Learning TM ’ pedagogy. Research done by MGIS faculty includes over 500 articles on education, linguistics and parenting in publications across Europe, Canada and Asia; text-books for the Gujarat Government etc.

MGIS is student-centric and functions on democratic principles of self-governance. It has created a space for experiential learning through projects with real life links. It was the first international school in Gujarat, the first school in the state to use Apple technology and the first school in India to offer skill development courses affiliated to Edexcel BTEC. MGIS has a strong international and national education exchange program with France, Australia, South Korea, USA and Ladakh (India).

Trustees

  • The trustees of Mahatma Gandhi International School are:
  • The ex-officio Municipal Commissioner
  • The ex-officio Mayorshri
  • The ex-officio Chairman of Municipal School Board
  • Smt. Anju Musafir (Managing Trustee) and
  • Shri. Pascal Chazot

Building

The building belongs to the Sheth Motilal Hirabhai family and the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation. As part of the Public-Private Partnership model, the city’s authorities came together with educationists to provide quality education.

Mission Statement

The school is committed to provide quality education that is accessible to all sections of society irrespective of caste, socioeconomic status, religion and nationality.
Through its experiential pedagogy, it strives to encourage and develop the learner as a compassionate human being towards others.
The school seeks to promote inter-cultural understanding and mutual respect by encouraging all forms of diversity (cultural, intellectual, physical, linguistic and other) within and without the classroom in order to engender diverse learner interactions, which are a fundamental resource to its innovative pedagogy.
The school is committed to develop and implement a pedagogy that allows for learning to be an enjoyable experience that is purposeful, logical and coherent.
The school is inspiring the community to foster the spiritual dimension in education through practices that develop both sides of the brain with intuition, imagination and mindfulness.
The learning environment encourages students to be independent and creative thinkers.
The school emphasizes holistic development, integrating physical and mental well-being and sustainability into daily practices. By fostering mental, emotional and physical health, along with environmental awareness, it nurtures socially responsible and eco-conscious individuals, preparing students for both academic success and responsible citizenship.

Triadic Structure

Research

The school houses a Center for Action Research in Education (CARE) which is the site for action research projects in the field of education that drive the teacher training center and the classroom pedagogy at MGIS. CARE is independent because with the advances in the science of education and the technological revolution in communication, new jobs have been created hence new skills are required.

School

Mahatma Gandhi International School (MGIS) is the school of application, the space where teachers trained in the Teacher Training Center (ADEPT) implement the pedagogical tools and teaching strategies developed in the in-house action research centre (CARE).

Teacher Training

Located in Ahmedabad, ADEPT the in-house teacher training centre of MGIS, opens its doors for the first time to interested teachers across the world. We are willing to share our pedagogical secrets for the benefit of the larger teaching community and millions of students who will be touched by them.

Strategic Goals

Well-Being

Statement

By teaching emotional regulation, incorporating mindfulness practices, fostering empathy, encouraging healthy lifestyles and building asupportive community, MGIS aims to develop skills in students to manage stress, appreciate diversity, maintain physical and mental health and view challenges as growth opportunities

Planned Actions:

  • MGIS has started weekly sessions with Mindfulness practitioner to help students focus and center themselves.
  • Teachers will use guided meditations to help students relax and become more aware of their thoughts and feelings.
  • MGIS will include techniques for managing stress and anxiety, such as deep breathing or journaling on regular basis across classes.
  • MGIS continues to employ various techniques like clay therapy, color therapy and dog therapy and many more strategies to help students connect with their immediate surroundings and themselves.
  • MGIS will encourage regular physical activities in the classroom practices and inculcate healthy eating habits.
  • School will continue to include activities like yoga or outdoor education to promote physical health.
  • Each class will continue to map class projects that ensure maximum collaboration among students to develop stronger group bonding that enhances wellbeing.
  • Each class will continue to conduct regular reflection sessions where students discuss their experiences and feelings. Each student will maintain a process journal.
  • MGIS will continue to have non violent conflict resolutions through weekley class council sessions.

Inclusion and Diversity

Statement

MGIS will continue to focus on fostering a diverse and inclusive school environment by promoting cultural competence, ensuring equitable access to resources, integrating diverse perspectives into the curriculum, building a mutually respectful community and empowering student voices.

Planned Actions:

  • MGIS will continue to celebrate each festival to honor various cultural traditions and organising events for students and families to share their cultural heritage through food, music, dance and storytelling.
  • School continues to ensure that curriculum planning includes cultural competence, unconscious bias and inclusive teaching learning activities.
  • Reviewing and revision of school policies to ensure they promote equity and inclusion and establishing clear protocols for addressing discrimination and bias incidents. The class council will address any internal class conflict first through class council and later handled by the advisory committee. School also effectively educates and implements POSCO.
  • MGIS will encourage more CAS, CP and SL student-led clubs and organizations that celebrate diversity and promote inclusion.
  • MGIS will continue to partner with local, national and international organizations and experts on diversity and inclusion to bring additional resources and perspectives into the school.
  • MGIS will create more channels for students, parents and staff to provide feedback on diversity and inclusion initiatives and experiences
  • School will continue to have diverse and inclusive demographics among all stakeholders.

Constructive Use of AI in Classroom Practices

Statement

MGIS plans to use AI in transforming education to personalize learning experiences, enhancing student engagement and providing efficient assessment and feedback. School will use AI to support diverse learning needs with assistive technologies and language translation, while also enabling data-driven decision-making for teachers. School will leverage AI to enhance teaching and learning,support diverse student needs and streamline administrative processes, ultimately creating a more dynamic and responsive educational environment.

Planned Actions:

  • MGIS will use AI to create trans-disciplinary projects that connect students with real-world applications of technology. MGIS will plan and map experiential learning projects with the use of AI as a tool for exploration and creativity, fostering a collaborative and innovative classroom environment
  • MGIS will continue to provide training for teachers on using AI tools effectively and understanding their potential impact on learning.
  • MGIS teachers will use AI tools to create educational resources that make learning engaging and fun.
  • MGIS will educate students and teachers about the ethical considerations of using AI, including data privacy, bias and the responsible use of technology. Simultaneously, school will implement policies and guidelines for the ethical use of AI in the classroom; ensuring student data is protected and used responsibly.

Incorporating SDGs in Classroom and School Activities

Statement

This plan emphasizes the integration of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) into curriculum to raise awareness and foster action on global issues. By promoting critical thinking and problem-solving skills, the plan encourages students to engage in projects addressing real-world issues. It integrates SDG topics across various subjects and fosters interdisciplinary learning. Additionally, it promotes responsible citizenship, global awareness and environmental stewardship, encouraging sustainable practices within the MGIS school community.

Planned Actions:

  • MGIS will collaborate with local, national and international organizations and experts to provide real-world context and mentorship for class projects: Creating rain water harvesting system, Working with village community and designing waste management system etc.
  • MGIS will implement sustainable practices in school operations, such as reducing energy consumption, promoting recycling programs and supporting sustainable transportation options. We will involve students in sustainability audits and initiatives to assess and improve the school’s environmental impact.
  • MGIS will design projects that focuses on SDG’s like establish a school garden, composting program and waste management system to promote hands-on learning about sustainable agriculture and waste management.
  • School will create events to raise awareness, educate students and encourage them to take action on global issues. We will organize events, workshops and campaigns that focus on specific SDGs, such as World Water Day, Earth Day and International Day of Peace.
  • School will use technology to facilitate virtual exchanges, webinars and discussions on SDG-related topics with schools in other countries to explore global perspectives on sustainable development and collaborate on joint projects like GLOBE project.
  • School will train educators for programs like “ Green teacher” to integrate SDGs into their teaching practices and curriculum.
  • School will create a system to incorporate assessments that allow students to reflect on their learning about the SDGs and their contributions to sustainability.

Community engagement

Statement

The strategic goal aims to enhance school-community engagement by building partnerships with local organizations, increasing parent and family involvement, promoting community service, fostering cultural exchange and leveraging community expertise.

Planned Actions:

  • MGIS will continue to establish more partnerships with local businesses, non-profits and community organizations to support educational programs and initiatives.
  • School will organize parenting workshops and provide resources to help families support their children’s learning and well-being.
  • School will provide more opportunities for students to engage in community service projects that address local needs and issues.
  • School will host events that celebrate the cultural diversity of the community and promote cross-cultural understanding.
  • School will liaison with local resources and utilize resources, such as local libraries, museums and parks, to enhance educational experiences.
  • MGIS will create more channels for students, parents and staff to provide feedback on diversity and inclusion initiatives and experiences
  • School will continue to invite local experts, professionals and community members to share their knowledge and skills with students through guest lectures, workshops and mentorship programs.

Synergy of Knowledge: Fostering Continuous Innovation in Natural and Human Sciences

Statement

MGIS aims to foster a dynamic and integrative approach to the continuous advancement of human knowledge across both natural and human sciences. By promoting interdisciplinary collaboration, innovative research and the application of cutting-edge technologies, we aim to create a holistic understanding that drives sustainable development, enhances societal well-being and addresses the complex challenges of our evolving world.”

Planned Actions:

  • MGIS will engage students and teachers in collaborative research projects that address real-world problems.
  • School will continue partnership with universities like PDPE and AU for mentorship and resources.
  • School will ensure regular professional development opportunities for teachers to stay updated with the latest advancements in their fields.
  • MGIS will utilize virtual labs, simulation software and online databases to give students hands-on experience with current scientific methods in
    order to enhance learning and research capabilities.
  • School will establish clubs and societies focused on natural and human sciences, such as a science club, debate team, breakfast club and
    environmental club.
  • We will invite experts from various fields to give guest lectures and conduct workshops, exposing students to diverse perspectives and cutting-
    edge research.
  • MGIS will continue to create dedicated spaces for collaborative learning and research like innovation labs, maker spaces and resource centers.
  • School aims to develop partnerships with local businesses, non-profits and governmental organizations to provide students with real-world problem-solving experiences like IIT Gandhi nagar, Fashion TV,CEPT, NID, CEE and CSC.
  • School will practice and implement regular evaluation and feedback mechanisms to continuously improve and adapt the curriculum and
    teaching methods to stay aligned with the latest advancements.

Strengthening Alumni Connection

Statement

MGIS aims to build and maintain a vibrant, engaged alumni network, lifelong connections, fostering a sense of pride, belonging and active engagement. By creating meaningful opportunities for alumni to contribute their expertise, resources and experiences. We aim to enrich our academic community, support current students and uphold the values and legacy of our school.

Planned Actions:

  • MGIS has recently collaborated with Univariety for Alumni Impact program to create alumni database and engagement platform to track and analyze alumni interactions, preferences and engagement levels.
  • MGIS plans to create a platform for virtual mentorship, allowing alumni from different geographical locations to participate.
  • MGIS will continue to organize regular alumni networking events, such as reunions, career fairs and regional meet-ups to facilitate connections among graduates.
  • School will continue to host webinars, workshops and panel discussions featuring alumni experts on various topics.
  • With the help of Univeriety MGIS will establish mentorship programs that connect current students with alumni for guidance, career advice and professional development.
  • MGIS will continue to share success stories, achievements and news about the Alumni to maintain a strong sense of pride and belonging.
  • MGIS plans to develop a comprehensive alumni communication strategy, including newsletters, social media and an updated alumni website, to
    keep graduates informed and connected.
  • MGIS will continue to share success stories, achievements and news about the Alumni to maintain a strong sense of pride and belonging.
  • MGIS plans to develop a comprehensive alumni communication strategy, including newsletters, social media and an updated alumni website, to
    keep graduates informed and connected.
  • MGIS will continue to invite more and more alumni to participate in guest lectures, workshops and seminars to share their knowledge and
    experience with students of MGIS.