Leading & Learning: Capacity Building Programme for DPS Principals : VeenaChauhan

The three-day “Leading and Learning” Capacity Building Programme for DPS Principals
brought together leaders from 29 Delhi Public Schools across the country for an intensive
exchange of ideas, practices and strategies aimed at strengthening educational leadership.
Organised at the DPSS–Human Resource Development Centre in end of June, Noida, the
programme focused on the evolving role of school leaders in the 21st-century education
landscape, with discussions centred around contemporary pedagogical practices, emotional
intelligence in school administration, digital integration, inclusive school cultures and data-
driven decision-making. The programme highlighted the importance of moving beyond
traditional administrative roles towards visionary leadership that nurtures innovation, teacher
development and student well-being.
The sessions were enriched by the insights of eminent speakers who emphasised the legacy
and responsibility of the Delhi Public School movement in shaping future-ready institutions.
During the inaugural session, V. K. Shunglu, Chairman, The DPS Society, spoke on the
responsibilities of principals, including effective institutional governance and financial
accountability. Neeraj Grover, Advocate, New Delhi, shared valuable perspectives on legal
aspects in school education, while Sandhya Awasthi, Executive Director, HRDC and
Executive Director, DPSS-HRDC, conducted sessions on “Mastering the Art of Lesson” and
“Essentials of Leadership,” encouraging principals to engage in continuous learning,
reflection and skill-building, among many other keynote speakers.
Representing DPS Shimla, Headmistress Veena Chauhan, actively participated in the
discussions and highlighted the unique challenges faced by the Institution. She spoke about
the school’s journey of establishing itself among the legacy schools of Shimla while
overcoming geographical challenges due to its location away from the city centre. She
emphasised the need for consistent efforts in building visibility, strengthening academic
excellence and creating opportunities that enable DPS Shimla to stand at par with established
institutions in the region.
The programme provided a valuable platform for school leaders to share experiences, address
common challenges and explore innovative solutions through collaborative learning. For DPS
Shimla, the engagement reinforced the importance of continuous capacity building, strategic
leadership and community connection in achieving the vision of providing quality education
while carrying forward the values and legacy of the DPS fraternity.