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At the Franchise India Bharat Startup Summit & Expo, we had the opportunity to speak with Dr. Manin Thakur, the Director of Joseph & Mary Public School, who has over three decades of experience in the field of education. In this conversation, Dr. Thakur sheds light on the major shifts in today’s education system — where learning has evolved beyond textbooks to embrace technology, AI, and entrepreneurial thinking.
He also discusses how his school is leveraging new-age tools to prepare students for the real world and how they plan to expand their vision through a national franchise model. Let’s explore his insightful perspective on how education is transforming into a practical, future-ready journey for students.
How do you see the evolution of education over the years, especially comparing earlier times to now?
Dr. Manin Thakur: Education has changed drastically. Earlier, it was all about reading books, memorizing content, passing exams. But now, it’s analytical. With AI, Google, and smartphones at your fingertips, storing information in the brain isn’t the goal anymore.
What we focus on now is teaching students how to process information — what's right, what's wrong, and how to extract useful insights from a sea of data. That’s the real purpose of education today.
How significant is the integration of technology in education today? How do you view tools like AI?
Dr. Manin Thakur: AI is both a challenge and an opportunity. Earlier, we used to tell students to stay away from phones and computers. But now, we encourage them to use tools like ChatGPT and AI to research and develop their analytical skills.
You can't ignore technology. The only way forward is to embrace it and teach students how to use it wisely and productively.
Entrepreneurship is becoming a trending theme in schools. Are you integrating it into your school’s curriculum?
Dr. Manin Thakur: As Prime Minister Modi envisions a "Developed India" by 2030, it’s vital that students start thinking outside the box. Instead of just becoming doctors, engineers, or CAs — we teach them to become entrepreneurs.
We have introduced entrepreneurship as a subject in our school. During summer break, we assign tasks to students — such as visiting local markets, observing demand, understanding margins, and learning how businesses operate. This builds a real-world, business-oriented mindset in them.
you’re working on a franchise model. Can you elaborate on that?
Dr. Manin Thakur: Our school has been operating for 30 years. Now, we’re converting our experience into a franchise model to help others establish schools across India, especially in small towns and rural areas where quality private education is lacking.
We offer a complete business and educational model. Our goal is to help individuals build educational hubs in their regions, which in turn contributes to national development and uplifts the standard of education.
You've shared incredible insights on technology, education, and entrepreneurship. What final message would you like to give to educators, parents, and students?
Dr.Manin Thakur: Education today isn’t just about textbooks. It’s about free thinking, analysis, technological awareness, and entrepreneurial mindset. If we guide students in the right direction, they won’t just look for jobs — they’ll create jobs.
We must focus on nurturing innovators and leaders who can contribute to society and build a stronger, self-reliant India.
Conclusion:
Today’s education is no longer confined to books and marks; it’s about developing critical thinking, understanding technology, and nurturing the spirit of creation.
Dr. Manin Thakur has clearly outlined how modern tools like AI and entrepreneurship are being integrated into the school ecosystem to prepare students for 21st-century challenges. Through the Joseph & Mary Public School franchise model, he aims to spread this educational reform across the country — ensuring every child receives quality learning and a brighter future.
This conversation is not just about changes in education — it’s a glimpse into the foundation of India’s future. Visionary educators like Dr. Thakur are shaping a new path where education empowers students not just to secure jobs, but to transform the world around them.
