Rustom Kerawalla is the Founder Chairman of VIBGYOR Group of Schools, a leading educational institution in India. With a strong vision for educational excellence, Mr. Kerawalla established the first VIBGYOR school in Malad, Mumbai, in 2004. Since then, under his leadership, the organization has grown into a network of 39 prestigious schools across the country, known for their commitment to holistic education and overall student development. Mr. Kerawalla’s philosophy centers on providing a well-rounded education that integrates academics, arts, and athletics. His focus on innovative teaching methods and experiential learning reflects his belief that education should go beyond the classroom and foster curiosity, creativity, and confidence in students. VIBGYOR’s various programs, including leadership development and personality enhancement, underscore his dedication to preparing students for the future workforce. In addition to his role at VIBGYOR, Mr. Kerawalla is a passionate advocate for environmental sustain ability, demonstrated by 22 the establishment of 33 Climate Academies within VIBGYOR schools. His leadership has earned him numerous accolades and positioned VIBGYOR as a pioneering force in the Indian education sector.
What inspired you to establish the VIBGYOR Group of Schools, and how has your vision evolved over the years?
India, with its dynamic and youthful population, stands poised for a future filled with innovation, creativity, and boundless opportunities. I firmly believe that education serves as the cornerstone for unlocking the potential of our nation’s youth, paving the way for a brighter and more prosperous tomorrow. Our journey toward establishing high standards of educational excellence commenced with the opening of the first VIBGYOR school in Malad, Mumbai, in 2004. By 2006, what began as a vision for a premier educational institution had evolved into a professionally managed network of schools, all dedicated to Business Prizm 10 Most Inspiring Education Leaders In India 2024 a holistic approach to learning. We seamlessly integrate arts, athletics, and academics, nurturing the all-round development of our students. Today, VIBGYOR Group of Schools is a proud network of 39 prestigious institutions, each committed to fostering holistic growth and academic excellence, ensuring our students are well-prepared to meet the challenges of an ever-evolving world.
Can you elaborate on the educational philosophy behind “Good Thoughts, Good Words, Good Deeds” and its implementation in your schools?
What lies at the core of the VIBGYOR educational philosophy is the belief of “Good Thoughts, Good Words, Good Deeds”. It stems from our solid conviction that only when education is rooted in moral and ethical values, can a student truly evolve to be a responsible citizen of India.
How do you foster innovation within your schools, particularly in terms of curriculum development and teach ing methodologies?
At VIBGYOR, we embrace the evolution of education. Our approach revolves around the 5 Cs: Communication, Critical Thinking, Collaboration, Creativity, and Citizen ship—essential skills for thriving in today’s interconnect ed world. With a keen eye on the best global practices in education, our curriculum development team ensures integration of STEM education, project-based learning, soft skills cultivation, and career guidance to promote holistic growth. Our emphasis on inclusivity, diversity, and community engagement fosters well-rounded individuals prepared for tomorrow’s challenges. We also encourage students to explore their passions in arts, sports, and com munity service, instilling deeper self-awareness.
We achieve this through a multifaceted approach tailored to individual needs. The VIBGYOR MUN program provides a platform for students to explore international relations, honing critical skills like research and communication while fostering global citizenship. Our V-Embark program transcends traditional learning, sparking students’ passion for knowledge through diverse educational clubs and activities beyond the classroom. Our robust Sports & Performing Arts curriculum complements academics, promoting physical fitness and creative thinking. This balanced approach identifies each child’s unique talents, builds confidence, and fosters personality development. Additionally, our comprehensive counsel ling and support services, including VC3 for career guidance, ensure students’ mental, emotional, and academic well-being, guiding them from university applications to personal growth.
How do you manage the pressures and responsibilities that come with leading such a large educational organization?
Leading a large educational organization comes with significant pressures and responsibilities, but I believe these challenges are integral to shaping a brighter future for our nation. In my view, education and skill development are the cornerstones of national progress, as they equip future generations with the skills and competencies needed to be gainfully employed and make meaningful contributions to society.
To create sustainable and scalable solutions that ensure access to education, skill development, and livelihood opportunities for all, we must focus on empowering India’s vast demographic potential. It is this vision that drives me each day, inspiring our efforts to make a lasting impact on the country’s growth and development trajectory.
What advice would you offer to par ents who are considering enrolling their children in one of your schools?
I encourage parents to prioritize their child’s holistic development, rather than solely academic performance. At VIBGYOR, we believe education should go beyond textbooks, sparking a passion for learning, creativity, and growth. Parents should support their children in exploring diverse interests, whether in sports, the arts, or other inspiring activities. Our programs nurture these passions, fostering confident, well-rounded individuals ready for future challenges.
We integrate innovative pedagogy and emphasize experiential learning. Through programs like VIBGYOR ACE, focusing on leadership and personality development, we prepare students for tomorrow’s workforce. As the only school group in Asia hosting 33 Climate Academies, we also demonstrate strong commitment to environmental protection.
Creating a supportive environment where children can explore, make mistakes, and learn is essential. At VIB GYOR, we collaborate with parents to ensure students achieve academic success while developing life skills for the future.