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From the desk of the Honorary Secretary & Treasurer

Message from the Hon. Secretary & Treasurer

Mrs. Aashrita Dass

Honorary Secretary & Treasurer, The Association of Heads of Anglo-Indian Schools in India

The past year has been one of purposeful activity, careful planning and renewed institutional engagement. As the Association enters its second century of service, the National Chapter has remained committed to strengthening its organisational foundations while preserving the values and traditions that have long distinguished AHAISI. Throughout the year, our efforts have been directed towards enhancing governance, expanding professional initiatives and improving engagement with our member schools across the country.

One of the highlights of the year was the successful organisation of the 103rd Annual Conference, held in Kolkata in January 2026. The Conference provided an important forum for professional dialogue, fellowship and deliberation on matters affecting Anglo-Indian schools and school leadership. It reaffirmed the Association's enduring commitment to collective reflection and informed decision-making in an evolving educational landscape.

Recognising the need to broaden the Association's academic and professional initiatives, the Managing Committee approved the constitution of four national sub-committees to oversee new flagship programmes of the Association: The National Award for Teachers, National Award for Principals, the National Music Competition and the National Environmental Award. Each committee comprises experienced educational leaders drawn from different regions of the country. Considerable progress has been made and these programmes promise to become significant platforms for recognising excellence, encouraging innovation and celebrating achievement within the Anglo-Indian Educational community.

A major milestone during the year has been the development of the Association's official website and the commencement of its digital transformation. This initiative represents far more than the creation of an online presence. It marks the beginning of a comprehensive effort to modernise the Association's systems, improve communication with members, preserve its institutional history and promote greater transparency in its functioning. The website will serve as a central repository of information, historical records, official communications and resources for member schools, ensuring that the Association remains accessible and responsive in an increasingly digital world.

The Managing Committee met regularly during the year to deliberate on matters concerning the governance and administration of the Association. These meetings provided the opportunity to review ongoing initiatives, consider matters of policy and chart the future direction of the Association. The collective wisdom and commitment of Committee members have been invaluable in ensuring that the Association continues to discharge its responsibilities with diligence and integrity.

The Association also continued to fulfil its representative role within the wider educational community. Members participated in the 120th Meeting of the Council for the Indian School Certificate Examinations (CISCE), where matters concerning school education and governance were deliberated. The Association remains committed to maintaining a constructive relationship with CISCE and other educational bodies in furtherance of the interests of its member schools.

Another significant initiative undertaken during the year was the issuance of Life Membership Identity Cards to Life Members of the Association. This measure not only formally recognises the invaluable contribution of our senior members but also strengthens the Association's records and reinforces the lifelong bond between the Association and those who have devoted decades of service to Anglo-Indian Education.

Preparations are already well underway for the 104th Annual Conference, to be hosted in Bengaluru. Planning committees have commenced their work to ensure that the Conference continues the Association's long tradition of providing a meaningful forum for professional exchange, institutional fellowship and educational leadership. We look forward to welcoming our members once again as we continue to build upon the momentum generated during the past year.

As Honorary Secretary & Treasurer, I remain deeply conscious that the strength of the Association rests not only upon its history but upon the active participation of its members. I therefore place on record my sincere appreciation to our President, Managing Committee Members, President & Secretaries of all the State Branches, Life Members and Heads of Schools whose counsel, cooperation and commitment have contributed significantly to the work of the Association during the year.

The year under review has laid important foundations for the future. New initiatives have been launched, administrative processes strengthened and meaningful steps taken towards greater institutional engagement. While much has been accomplished, there remains much to be done. With the continued support of our members, I am confident that the Association will continue to uphold its distinguished heritage while embracing new opportunities for growth and service.

As we prepare for another year of endeavour, may we remain united in purpose, steadfast in our responsibilities and committed to advancing the ideals upon which this Association was founded over a century ago.

Mrs. Aashrita Dass

Honorary Secretary & Treasurer, The Association of Heads of Anglo-Indian Schools in India