‘Learning Never Ends’: ISB Principal Palaniswamy Bids Farewell After 25 Years

TDT | Manama

Email: mail@newsofbahrain.com

After more than four decades dedicated to education, outgoing Indian School Bahrain (ISB) Principal V.R. Palaniswamy says retirement is not the end of learning but the beginning of a new chapter.

In an exclusive interview with The Daily Tribune, Palaniswamy reflected on his 25-year journey at ISB, where he rose from a mathematics teacher to become the school’s longest-serving principal after previously serving as Head of Department and Vice Principal.

Before joining ISB in 2001, he spent 15 years teaching mathematics in Chennai, India. During his distinguished career, he received the prestigious CBSE National Teacher Award and the National Award to Teachers presented by the President of India.

Palaniswamy said his greatest lessons came from his students, describing education as a journey where teachers continue to learn every day.

“I truly believe the child is the father of man. The smiling faces of children reminded me to stay curious, hopeful and humble,” he said.

Transforming Education

Having witnessed major changes in classrooms over four decades, Palaniswamy highlighted the shift from traditional teacher-led methods to child-centred learning.

Under his leadership, ISB embraced smart classrooms, digital learning tools and innovative teaching approaches while maintaining its core values. He also contributed to strengthening the school’s global engagement through its UNESCO affiliation.

“By adapting while preserving our values, we ensured our students remained future-ready,” he said. While proud of ISB’s achievements, including its “Good” rating in the Bahrain Education and Training Quality Authority (BQA) evaluation, Palaniswamy said the true measure of success is the impact on students.

“I hope people remember me as someone who always placed students at the heart of every decision,” he added.

A Legacy of Service

Palaniswamy said he will miss his daily interactions with students the most, especially his morning walks through school corridors and seeing their enthusiasm.

As he prepares to hand over leadership, he urged future educators to lead with sincerity, integrity and humility while always prioritising students’ interests.

“When every decision is guided by the best interests of students, the school will continue to grow and flourish,” he said.

Looking ahead, Palaniswamy plans to remain involved in education through mentoring teachers, supporting students and contributing to educational initiatives.