Principal recognised for excellence in leadership

Known for instilling values and principles, Dr Kishan Bodalina, principal of Springs Secondary School, recently received recognition for his exceptional leadership at the 24th Annual National Teachers Awards (NTA).

Bodalina was second in the excellence in secondary school leadership category. His dedication to the school since 1985, spending 35 years as a teacher and a principal, allowed him to enter the prestigious annual awards.

Bodalina reflects on the moment his name was announced, “I thought to myself, this is a big stage to come up as number two.

“As a province, we had different categories. Coming second was the best position we achieved. It was overwhelming but also a testament to the experience,” said Bodalina.

He says he entered the NTA unexpectedly, revealing he would not have participated without his colleagues encouraging him.

“Overall, it was a journey that helped me grow, personally and professionally, and broadened my understanding of leadership.

“The experience was rewarding, filled with hard work and preparation. I did not realise what I was getting myself into, but in the end, it was worth it.”

Bodalina said receiving the award reinforced his current role as principal.

“My mission when I became a teacher was always to promote good human beings in learners, and that has never stopped. The goal is to teach them to be good people who can reach out and help their communities.”

He said receiving the award made him more mindful of his actions, which further encouraged him to continue reinforcing his mission at the school.

Bodalina’s leadership is grounded in core values, which he believes contribute to a positive school culture and community.

“Leading by example is key. You must first be the person you want others to be, and then do what you say, see the results, and pass it on to others once you have seen success.”

He emphasised that too often leaders instruct others to do something without setting an example themselves. For Bodalina, being a leader means embodying the values of love, humanity, service, and helping others.

“Our school motto ‘Enter to learn, leave to serve’ is what we try to instil in our learners, encouraging them to do good even after they leave school.”

With 35 years in education, Bodalina added he has faced numerous challenges. However, he has learned to overcome them by focusing on the values and principles that guide his leadership.

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