Dr. Dewagana Punde, the Principal of St. Paul School on Hudkeshwar Road, Nagpur, exemplifies how a visionary educator can inspire hope and create opportunities for children from underprivileged areas. Hailing from the small town of Gondia, she has dedicated her career and life to the success of poor students. Her transformative leadership, supported by a team of dedicated teachers, has redecorated the school, making it a clean, well-lit, safe, and fun environment. The impact of these quick wins is remarkable, with average test scores improving and more students achieving high marks.

Her  empathy and attention to each student have made everyone feel special. Her efforts have been recognized with several awards, including the Sakal Idols of Maharashtra 2022, the Mimansa Principals Conclave by Ethos Edusolution, the Guru Gaurav award from the newspaper “Sakal,” and the Guru Gaurav award from “Lokshahi-Varta.”

In every school community, a beacon of hope and leadership often emerges. This guiding light is typically a principal who not only manages administrative tasks but also nurtures a culture of excellence, empathy, and growth among students and staff alike. She  is more than just an administrator; she is a catalyst for positive change and a pillar of support for everyone within her school walls. Her unique ability to envision a brighter future and empower others to contribute to its realization sets her apart. Through her unwavering commitment to education and personal development, she fosters an environment where students feel valued and motivated to excel.

One defining characteristic of Dr. Punde is her ability to lead by example. She demonstrates integrity in decision-making, fairness in every interaction, and compassion in every situation. Her presence radiates optimism and belief in the potential of every student, regardless of their background or challenges. Moreover, she understands the power of collaboration, forging strong partnerships with teachers, parents, and the wider community to create a cohesive support network that enriches the educational experience. By promoting open communication and inclusivity, she ensures that everyone feels heard and valued, fostering a sense of belonging and unity.

She  is also a champion of innovation and continuous improvement. She embraces change as an opportunity for growth and encourages creativity among her staff and students. By fostering curiosity and exploration, she inspires a lifelong love for learning and equips her students with the skills and resilience needed to thrive in an ever-changing world. Above all, her  inspirational leadership leaves a lasting legacy of positive impact. Her influence extends far beyond her tenure, shaping the future leaders and thinkers of tomorrow. She instills values of empathy, respect, and resilience that guide her students long after they have left the school gates.

St. Paul School, which started in 2000 with only 50 students, now boasts a strength of 10,000 students, a testament to her hard work and dedication. The school produces many merit students every year, underscoring its success. Undoubtedly, at the heart of successful St. Paul School beats the spirit of an inspirational principal, Dr. Dewagana Punde. Her visionary leadership demonstrates the transformative power of dedicated educators in shaping the future. Her  passion for education ignites a flame of hope and possibility in every student and educator she touches, embodying the motto “soaring for excellence and never stop learning.”

****************