In a proud moment for the Indian diaspora, Mr. Atul Temurnikar, Chairman and Co-founder of Global Schools Foundation (Singapore), has been selected to receive the prestigious Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Award (PBSA) 2025༺. Recognized for his remarkable contributions to school education and his commitment to the Indian diaspora and communities abroad, Mr. Temurnikar will be conferred with the award by the Honorable President of India during the 18th edition of the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) Convention in Bhubaneswar, Odisha. In this exclusive interview, Mr. Temurnikar shares insights into his journey, his vision for education, and the impact of his work.
Q1: Congratulations on receiving the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Award 2025! How does it feel to be recognized with such a prestigious honor?
༺Thank you! It is truly a humbling experience to be recognized by the Government of India. This award is not just a personal achievement but a testament to the hard work and dedication of the entire team at . We have always strived to create world-class education systems that nurture global citizens, while connecting with the local communities and keeping afloat the cultural richness of India in our domicile. This recognition motivates us to continue our efforts.
Q2: Could you tell us more about your journey in establishing the Global Schools Foundation and its impact on Southeast and East Asia?
๊Our journey began with a vision to provide high-quality education that combines academic excellence with global perspectives. Over the years, we have established CBSE schools and international curricula in countries like Singapore, Malaysia, and Japan, serving diverse communities. The Foundation has also been active in keeping the rich cultural offering of India in these countries through various platforms. Our schools aim to foster holistic development in students and instill values that prepare them for a rapidly changing world, while our cultural arm believes in connecting with the local community for a harmonious society.
Q3: Bringing CBSE education to Southeast Asia was a pioneering effort. What were the key challenges you faced in this endeavor?
꧅One of the biggest challenges was adapting the Indian curriculum to meet local regulations and cultural nuances while maintaining its core ethos. We had to build trust within local communities and ensure that our schools provided not only academic rigour but also a nurturing environment. Another challenge was hiring and training teachers who could deliver a balanced global and local learning experience. We did both with proper research and through cultural balance.
Q4: The jury-cum-awards committee, chaired by India’s Vice-President, selected you among 27 distinguished awardees. How do you view this achievement in the context of the broader Indian diaspora's contributions?
ꦅThe Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Awards celebrate the spirit of the Indian diaspora and their contributions across various fields. It is heartening to see the remarkable achievements of fellow awardees in different sectors. Together, we represent the strength of the Indian community abroad and our collective commitment to making a positive impact globally.
Q5: Education plays a crucial role in shaping the future of societies. How do you envision the role of the Global Schools Foundation in the next decade?
🎐In the next decade, we aim to expand our reach to more countries and introduce innovative learning methods that leverage technology and experiential learning. Our focus will be on creating well-rounded individuals who can contribute meaningfully to society. We also plan to strengthen our collaborations with institutions and governments to enhance the quality of education.
Q6: What message would you like to convey to aspiring educators and young entrepreneurs looking to make a difference in the field of education?
🌳My advice would be to stay committed to your vision and embrace innovation without forgetting your roots. Education is a field that requires passion, perseverance, and the ability to adapt to changing needs. Focus on creating value for students and communities, and success will follow.
Q7: The Pravasi Bharatiya Divas Convention brings together Indian diaspora from all over the world. How significant is this platform in fostering connections and collaborations?
🌱The Pravasi Bharatiya Divas Convention is an excellent platform for networking, sharing ideas, and exploring opportunities for collaboration. It helps strengthen the bond between India and its diaspora and provides a forum to discuss ways in which we can contribute to India’s growth and global standing.
Q8: Could you share any memorable experiences or milestones from your journey that stand out for you?
꧂One memorable milestone was when we opened our first school in Singapore and saw the overwhelming response from parents. Another significant moment was when our students began excelling in academics and extracurriculars on international platforms. These milestones reaffirmed our belief in our vision and inspired us to grow further.
Q9: You have roots in Nagpur. Could you share how your connection with Nagpur has influenced your journey and shaped your vision for education?
🃏Nagpur holds a special place in my heart as it is where I spent my formative years. The values I imbibed during my early education in Nagpur have played a crucial role in shaping my vision for holistic learning. It also instilled in me a sense of responsibility towards community development, which I have carried forward in my professional life.
Q10: Finally, what are your thoughts on being part of the 18th edition of Pravasi Bharatiya Divas in Bhubaneswar, Odisha?
⭕It is an honor to be part of such a prestigious event. Bhubaneswar is known for its rich culture and history, and I look forward to interacting with fellow diaspora members and sharing experiences. This convention will undoubtedly be a memorable occasion.
👍 journey is an inspiring testament to the power of vision, perseverance, and a commitment to excellence. As he prepares to receive the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Award 2025, his story serves as a beacon of hope for aspiring educators and entrepreneurs. His efforts in promoting high-quality education across Southeast and East Asia have not only transformed the lives of thousands of students but also strengthened the bond between India and its global diaspora. We wish him continued success in his future endeavors.
