Apeejay School, Saket, recently had the privilege of hosting Ms. Melody Mortazavi, Head of Times of India Newspaper in Education (NIE), for an enriching and insightful school visit under the theme Learning Beyond the Classroom. The visit highlighted the powerful role newspapers can play in shaping young, informed minds and nurturing lifelong learners.
Strengthening Reading Habits Through Newspapers
During her visit, Ms. Mortazavi interacted with the school leadership team and students, exploring how the Times NIE programme supports schools in cultivating strong reading habits. In an age dominated by fast-scrolling digital content, the habit of reading a newspaper encourages students to slow down, analyse information, and engage with diverse perspectives.
Through structured activities, discussions, and curated content, the NIE initiative helps students move beyond textbooks and develop a daily reading routine. Regular exposure to credible news sources strengthens vocabulary, improves comprehension skills, and enhances general awareness—essential competencies for academic and personal growth.
Building Critical Thinking and Real-World Awareness
A key focus of the interaction was the importance of critical thinking. Newspapers provide students with real-life contexts—be it developments in science, policy changes, environmental issues, or global events. By reading and discussing such topics, students learn to question, interpret, and form informed opinions.
At Apeejay School, Saket, the integration of such programmes reflects a commitment to holistic education. Learning does not remain confined to classrooms; instead, it extends to understanding the world beyond school walls. Initiatives like NIE empower students to connect classroom concepts with real-world applications, fostering analytical skills and civic awareness.
Ms. Mortazavi’s interaction with students was engaging and thought-provoking. She shared valuable insights into how newspapers can serve as effective educational tools, encouraging curiosity and independent thinking. The leadership team also discussed ways to further strengthen collaboration, ensuring that students continue to benefit from experiential and informed learning practices.