For over a decade and a half, Priya Sen has committed herself to the noble vocation of teaching, with a keen focus on inclusive education and the holistic development of every student under her care. Grounded in the belief that every learner, irrespective of their background or challenges, deserves equal opportunities to flourish, she  has cultivated a teaching philosophy centered on unwavering support and empathetic guidance.

She understands that fostering a supportive teacher-student relationship is paramount to enhancing academic achievements and boosting students’ self-confidence. She invests significant time and effort into mentoring and guiding her students, empowering them to overcome obstacles and pursue their aspirations with determination. This approach proved particularly impactful during the COVID-19 pandemic when many students faced unprecedented challenges in adapting to remote learning.

Amidst the pandemic, she  not only continued teaching her own students online but also extended her support to underprivileged learners associated with an NGO over the weekends. Collaborating with Mr. Marzy Parakh, the visionary founder of the Live to Give Foundation, she played a pivotal role in providing essential resources such as smartphones and laptops to ensure these children’s education remained uninterrupted

One of her  most rewarding experiences during this period was assisting an engineering student from the NGO who struggled with English, hindering his academic progress. Recognizing his potential and determination, Priya took on the challenge of tutoring him online. Through her dedication and tailored instruction, the student overcame his language barrier and excelled in his engineering exams. His transformation from a struggling student to a successful achiever serves as a testament to her unwavering belief in her students’ potential.

Her commitment to empowering students extends beyond the classroom, aligning with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal 4, which advocates for inclusive and equitable quality education for all. She envisions contributing to lifelong learning opportunities and universal literacy, ensuring that every individual has access to quality education irrespective of their socio-economic background.

Drawing inspiration from renowned educators and philosophers, including Daisaku Ikeda, President of Soka Gakkai International, she  believes in the transformative power of education to nurture individuals of true ability and conviction. She emphasizes the importance of humility in growth, both for educators and students, echoing Ikeda’s vision of education as a catalyst for positive societal change.

Reflecting on her journey, she attributes her success to the mentorship and guidance she received from Mrs. Abha Dharampal, CEO of Utpal Shanghvi Global School. (Priya Sen has been associated with the school since 2011 till date). Recognizing Priya’s potential during a chance encounter in 2010, Mrs. Dharampal encouraged her to pursue teacher training, laying the foundation for Priya’s impactful contributions to education.

Priya’s empathetic approach to classroom management and her steadfast belief in her students’ potential have earned her recognition as an exemplary educator. Her journey exemplifies the transformative impact of dedicated teachers and underscores the pivotal role of education in shaping a brighter future for society. She truly embodies the spirit of the Best Teacher Award, inspiring others to strive for excellence in the field of education.

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