A child’s journey through school is more than just lessons and exams—it is where curiosity is sparked, values take root, and the foundation for lifelong success is built. A strong K-12 education nurtures intellectual and emotional growth, shaping students into adaptable, critical thinkers prepared for the complexities of the real world. This transformation, however, does not happen in isolation. It requires the vision and dedication of a principal who not only upholds academic excellence but also cultivates an environment where learning is dynamic, inclusive, and future-focused.
Driving this evolution, Principal Ritambra Ghai has fostered a learning environment that integrates progressive teaching methodologies, character-building initiatives, and future-ready learning strategies.. Under her guidance, Army Public School (APS) , Dagshai has flourished as a center of academic distinction, where students receive a well-rounded education that extends beyond textbooks. In recognition of her outstanding contributions, we at the Education Excellence Awards proudly honor Ritambra Ghai as the Most Prominent Principal of the Year 2024 in K-12 Education.
A Legacy of Educational Excellence
Ritambra Ghai’s journey in the education sector is marked by a relentless pursuit of quality and innovation. With over two decades of experience, she has redefined leadership in K-12 education by prioritizing skill-based learning, interdisciplinary approaches, and experiential education. Under her leadership, APS Dagshai has implemented NEP 2020-aligned reforms, introduced competency-based assessments, and strengthened faculty development initiatives, ensuring students receive an education that meets evolving global standards.
Recognizing that education extends beyond textbooks, Mrs. Ghai has pioneered programs focusing on financial literacy, public speaking, and social responsibility. She has been instrumental in incorporating life skills, leadership training, and ethical values into the curriculum, fostering a generation that is not only academically proficient but also socially responsible.
Army Public School in a Nutshell
Rooted in the values of discipline, service, leadership, and academic excellence, APS Dagshai has cemented its reputation as a premier institution dedicated to nurturing well-rounded students. The school maintains an impressive 100% board exam pass rate, with students consistently excelling in CBSE Class 10 and 12 results through conceptual learning, remedial programs, and individualized academic support.
Leadership development is central to the school’s ethos, with structured NDA training programs, entrepreneurship boot camps, and a well-established prefect system that fosters responsibility and confidence in students. The institution actively promotes multilingual proficiency, offering advanced language training in French, Sanskrit, and Hindi to enhance cognitive flexibility and global adaptability. To encourage cultural awareness, APS Dagshai celebrates 75+ national and international events annually, reinforcing diversity and inclusivity. Additionally, initiatives like DEAR (Drop Everything and Read) and STEAM-integrated project-based learning have strengthened students’ analytical and literary capabilities.
Overcoming the Challenges of a Residential School
“As a residential school, we offer a unique learning environment that provides students with not only academic excellence but also personal growth opportunities,” says Ritambra Ghai, reflecting APS Dagshai’s commitment to holistic student development. Upholding this vision, the school has implemented a well-defined Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) that ensures discipline and student welfare. Regular Parent-Teacher Meetings (PTMs) and open communication with families create a collaborative approach to student progress.
To support students dealing with homesickness, APS Dagshai has established a strong mentorship and counseling system, fostering a family-like atmosphere within the school. Balancing academics with co-curricular activities is another challenge effectively managed through structured schedules and mandatory participation in extracurricular activities. Staff motivation is also prioritized, with continuous training, recognition programs, and wellness initiatives creating a positive work environment for educators.
Empowering Educators and Students
Understanding that educator empowerment directly impacts student success, Ritambra Ghai has championed faculty training programs in digital pedagogy, competency-based learning, and blended learning models. APS Dagshai teachers undergo annual workshops conducted by CBSE master trainers, ensuring the school remains aligned with the latest educational advancements.
For students, Principal Ghai has spearheaded the integration of AI, robotics, and coding into the school’s curriculum, offering hands-on experience in STEM and computational thinking. The school’s smart classrooms, augmented reality (AR)-enhanced labs, and student-driven research initiatives promote a technology-forward approach to education. Beyond academics, APS Dagshai fosters entrepreneurial thinking by collaborating with startup incubators and industry experts, enabling students to develop real-world problem-solving skills. The school has introduced internship opportunities for senior students, allowing them to gain practical exposure in fields like business management, engineering, and healthcare.
A Vision for the Future
Principal Ritambra Ghai envisions APS Dagshai as a center of excellence that harmonizes rigorous academics with strong values, preparing students for responsible citizenship. The school plans on expanding its STEM-based curriculum, investing in immersive learning tools like virtual reality (VR) and AI-powered simulations, and aligning its teaching strategies with international best practices. The school is also expanding its national outreach, increasing scholarship opportunities for students from diverse socio-economic backgrounds. By continuously innovating and adapting to modern educational needs, APS Dagshai remains a beacon of academic excellence, fostering leaders, visionaries, and socially responsible citizens who are equipped to make a meaningful impact on the world.
