In today’s rapidly evolving digital world, preparing children for the future goes beyond textbooks and tests. Scoring high marks in the exams is no longer the single deciding factor for admissions. The key question parents and educators are asking is how do we raise future-ready learners in the AI age? That was the topic we chose for the panel discussion at the KSP Awards 2024.
Moderated by Mansi Zaveri, Founder & CEO of Kidsstoppress and Conscious Parenting Coach, the session brought together an inspiring panel of thought leaders in education: Grishma Nanavaty, Founder – Open Canvas; Kunal Dalal, Managing Director – JBCN Education; Kushal Lodha, Podcaster, Author & Finance Educator; and Priyansh Sata, a JBCN International School learner who was recently accepted into Cornell University, an Ivy League institution.
Watch the video for the full discussion.
Indian Schools, International Curriculum & Ivy League
One of the most eye-opening discussions was around the real cost of studying abroad, especially at top Ivy League universities, which can reach up to ₹1–2 crores per year. With Indian parents increasingly aspiring for a global education for their children, the panel emphasised the importance of early planning, financial literacy, and investment tools like SIPs to manage future academic expenses. But financial readiness is only one part of the equation.
The conversation also highlighted the shifting priorities in education, where EQ (Emotional Intelligence) is now considered more important than IQ. Kunal Dalal pointed out that while academics remain crucial, children today need adaptability, problem-solving, and strong interpersonal skills to thrive in an AI-driven world. Grishma Nanavaty reinforced this by emphasising the need for multi-disciplinary learning, urging schools and parents to move beyond rote memorisation and focus on a mix of hard skills (like data literacy) and soft skills (like communication and collaboration).
With Indian schools increasingly integrating International curricula, the discussion also explored the evolving role of education in developing well-rounded, future-ready learners. Schools like JBCN International are leading the way by embedding foundational values, social-emotional learning, and student agency into their pedagogy, ensuring that students are equipped not just for academics but for real-world challenges. Priyansh Sata’s journey was a testament to this—he shared how he competed with students from 193 countries, with only 7 out of 100 applicants making it into his dream university, highlighting the global competitiveness Indian students now face.
How do we know if are kids are headed in the right direction in their effort to reach there? What does all of this mean for parents? It’s time to rethink how we define success and support our kids beyond just academics. Whether it’s nurturing curiosity, building resilience, or preparing them for competitive global admissions, the focus needs to shift toward raising well-rounded, adaptable learners who can navigate a rapidly changing world. Watch the video for the full conversation and stay tuned for more on such useful tips on parenting and raising learners on Kidsstoppress.com
Radhika Iyer Talati
KSP Team
Shweta Bothra
Mansi Zaveri
Raell Padamsee
Parul Gupta
