EDIB – At the Heart of Our School Culture
- 18 March 2026
A strong school culture is built on the foundation of trust, safety, and the sense of belonging for every member of the school community. As a part of NAE’s initiatives, Oakridge International School, Bachupally thoughtfully and intentionally integrates EDIB activities as a part of learning to promote strong relationships among stakeholders, empower student agencies, and cultivate shared responsibilities across the school.
At the core of our thoughtfully designed EDIB activities is a commitment to belonging, celebrating diversity and creating inclusive safe spaces for everyone to bloom. The student agencies flourish when we believe in their inherent leadership skills and back their creative ideas with empathy. They lead through voice, creativity, and perseverance.
Aligning EDIB objectives with Maslow’s Theory of human motivations provides a fundamental human-centered approach. Abraham Maslow’s hierarchy of needs explains how human motivation progresses from basic physiological needs to higher-level growth needs. The first three levels, i.e. physiological needs, safety and security, love and belonging, are very important as it influences a person’s motivation and growth.
A thriving school is relational and not hierarchical. EDIB and Maslow’s theory emphasis the significance of nurturing people. When people feel safe, supported, and welcomed, they are more likely to develop confidence and agency.
By embedding EDIB in school, we are actively learning and growing, prioritizing progress over perfection, and reflecting through the daily experiences and contributions of all stakeholders. We believe that we are nurturing future changemakers who will lead with humility, courage, and collaboration.
As an EDIB Champion, I am thrilled and excited to be part of this journey. In this process, I learned that impact need not be big or loud; small intentional acts do create rippling effects. When belonging is intentional, the culture reflects our sincere purpose and genuine care for one another.
Co-authored by Leena Nair, Supportive Instructor
