Student Raj Kumar Shrestha of the Minar English Boarding School interviews the Principal of his school Yasmin Siddiqui. Here are the excerpts of the interview

Question: How do you feel being the Principal of a reputed school?

Answer: I feel proud to be the Principal of Minar English Boarding School. I am very proud of our teaching and support staff. Our students are equally brilliant and are doing very well in school.

Q: What are some of the challenges that you have faced in the course of bringing this school to the present status?

A: We have faced several challenges right from the beginning. One of the earliest challenges we had was convincing everyone that we could do it. Many people did not think we would not make it till here, as all of us were women. But look at what we have achieved in five years. Another challenge for us is to provide quality education at the cheapest cost possible. What we consider an ongoing challenge is to make every student understand that they should become the best that they can be. We hope to install this in the minds of the students so that they may actualise all their potentials.

Q: Can you tell us the most memorable and exciting incident you can remember in the school?

A: My most unforgettable moment was to witness our first batch of students learning to read and write. It was exciting because I taught them myself. It felt like I had achieved something and that inspired me to teach them more.

Q: How do you draw the line between your professional and personal life?

A: I find it very important to distinguish my personal from my professional life. When I am at work I always think about what is best for MEBS so my decisions are always in line with this.

Q: When you see some students misbehaving or breaking school rules, what do you do to correct them?

Answer: I do not encourage misbehaviour among students. I correct them immediately. I explain so they understand where they went wrong.

Q: What qualities do you look for in a teacher before you appoint one?

A: I always try to see how passionate, determined, dedicated, and patient the teacher is in teaching children. This is a trait of a good teacher.

Q: What do you think is the ideal teacher-student relationship?

A: The ideal teacher-student relationship is one where both students and teachers are happy in performing their role.

Q: Do you ever get complaints and criticisms about the school?

A: We always receive criticism from parents, teachers, and students. I take them positively. The feedback we have received has helped us grow and improve.

Q: Have you been able to give enough time to your family and friends?

A: I do spend most of my time working. But I also find time to spend with family and friends.

I try not to work when I am with family and friends. I spend quality time with them.

Q: What is your message to the students?

A: Always strive for the best and try to be the best that you can be.