In collaboration with the CBSE Centre of Excellence (CoE), Chandigarh St. Joseph’s Sr. Sec. School, Sector 44-D, Chandigarh, successfully organized a one-day Capacity Building Programme on Theory of Knowledge (TOK) on 9th January 2025.The meticulously planned workshop aimed to empower educators with deeper insights into the concept of knowledge and its multifaceted applications in the teaching-learning process.The session was graced by distinguished resource persons Dr. Seema Dutt, Principal, DAV Public School, Ambala, and Dr. Vibha Ray, former Principal, DAV Senior Secondary School, Chandigarh. The dignitaries were warmly welcomed by the school’s Principal, Ms. Monica Chawla, and coordinators who presented them with planters, a thoughtful gesture symbolizing growth, learning, and enlightenment. The ceremonial lamp lighting, symbolizing the illumination of wisdom and the dispelling of ignorance, marked the formal inauguration of this enlightening programme.

In her address, Principal Ms. Monica Chawla, a trailblazer in the field of education, underscored the significance of fostering critical thinking and reflective practices in classrooms. She remarked, “This workshop exemplifies our unwavering commitment to nurturing educators who inspire intellectual curiosity and holistic development. The Theory of Knowledge is not merely an academic construct but a transformative tool that empowers students to become critical thinkers and informed global citizens.”

The workshop unfolded in three engaging and intellectually stimulating phases, each meticulously designed to broaden the horizons of the participants.The first session, led by Dr. Vibha Ray explored the foundational concepts of knowledge, its evolving nature, and the pathways to its acquisition. Through interactive activities such as distinguishing between belief and knowledge, neurolinguistic programming (NLP) exercises, and group discussions on perception, educators were encouraged to analyze their pedagogical approaches critically and to adopt innovative strategies in their classrooms.

The second phase, spearheaded by Dr. Vibha Ray, delved into advanced dimensions of TOK, such as sensory perception, inference, and the role of cultural influences in knowledge construction. Activities including real-world application tasks and sensory perception exercises provided participants with practical insights to enhance their teaching methodologies. Dr. Ray’s session emphasized the importance of creating an inclusive and culturally responsive learning environment that celebrates diversity in thought and perspective.

The final phase, facilitated by Dr. Seema Dutt, focused on analogical reasoning and word-object relationships, with a special emphasis on Upamana (comparison). The session highlighted the power of analogies in simplifying complex concepts and enhancing cognitive understanding among students. Practical demonstrations and engaging discussions ensured that educators left with actionable strategies to make their teaching more impactful.

The day concluded with a heartfelt vote of thanks, delivered by the compère, expressing profound gratitude to the resource persons for their invaluable insights, the CBSE CoE for providing this platform, and the coordinators and organizing team for their seamless execution of the event.

The revered Principal Ms. Monica Chawla, in her closing remarks, reiterated the school’s commitment to fostering professional growth among educators and promoting a culture of lifelong learning. She remarked, “Such initiatives are pivotal in transforming the educational landscape, enabling educators to not only impart knowledge but also ignite a passion for learning in their students.”

The workshop was an enriching experience, equipping educators with innovative tools and perspectives to redefine classroom teaching. St. Joseph’s Sr. Sec. School continues to stand as a beacon of academic excellence, inspiring educators and students alike to strive for new heights in the realm of education.