Keonjhar : This Children’s Day, Utkal Gaurav International School (UGIS) brings attention to a fundamental question facing modern education: Are schools preparing children merely to succeed in the world, or also equipping them with the wisdom, character and capabilities to navigate life?

At the heart of UGIS’s educational vision is its distinctive ‘How-to-Live’ Curriculum, inspired by Paramahansa Yogananda. Rooted in the belief that education must go beyond academics, the curriculum seeks to nurture the mind, body and spirit through four interconnected pillars: Science of Bodycare and Practical Efficiency, Mental Engineering, Social Arts and Applied Spiritual Science. Together, these pillars provide a framework for developing individuals who are physically healthy, mentally resilient, socially responsible and spiritually aware.

The curriculum is built around four pillars: Science of Bodycare and Practical Efficiency, which promotes physical well-being, self-care and practical life skills; Mental Engineering, which develops concentration, emotional balance and clarity of thought; Social Arts, which nurtures empathy, cooperation, communication and social responsibility; and Applied Spiritual Science, which encourages self-awareness, inner discipline and the practice of spiritual values in everyday life. Together, these pillars blend Eastern spiritual wisdom with Western educational rigour to foster intellectual growth, emotional balance and social consciousness. The curriculum recognises that while knowledge enables achievement, character guides its purpose, encouraging children to pursue ambition with integrity and compassion, and see personal success and service to society as complementary values.

Speaking about the philosophy, Dr. Pradeep Sethi, President, Utkal Gaurav International School, said, “We often measure education through marks, degrees and professional achievements, but the real test of education is how a person lives, responds to challenges and contributes to society. Through the ‘How to Live’ Curriculum, our endeavour is to nurture children who are not only knowledgeable and ambitious but also compassionate, disciplined and conscious of their responsibilities towards others. Its four pillars reflect our belief that a child’s development must address the body, mind, social conduct and inner life together. Inspired by Paramahansa Yogananda, we believe that spiritual growth and worldly ambition can complement each other. We want children to pursue excellence without losing sight of their values and to understand that the true purpose of achievement lies in how it can serve humanity.”

The institution reflects a broader commitment to building opportunities through education and service. Currently serving approximately 400 students, UGIS seeks to create an environment where learning extends beyond textbooks and examinations, allowing children to develop intellectually, emotionally, physically and spiritually.

Ultimately, the ‘How to Live’ Curriculum is guided by a simple yet profound conviction: education must not only teach children how to make a living, but also how to live. Because no school can take the exam called life on a child's behalf.

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