Prof. Geeta Gandhi Kingdon, Manager at City Montessori School, Lucknow

What does it mean to educate a child in the 21st century? While literacy, numeracy, and employability remain essential, the realities of climate change, space exploration, and artificial intelligence are expanding the scope of what schools must deliver to prepare students for an uncertain future.

An inspiring example of this shift is group captain Shubhanshu “Shux” Shukla, an alumnus of City Montessori School (CMS), Lucknow, who is set to become India’s second astronaut in space. He will pilot the Axiom-4 mission to the International Space Station—a commercial spaceflight involving international collaboration and cutting-edge research in microgravity.

Shukla’s remarkable journey underscores the critical role educational institutions play in nurturing curiosity, resilience, and global awareness alongside academic excellence. Founded in 1959, CMS is renowned for being one of the world’s largest schools by student body a

nd for its commitment to values-based education, encapsulated by its motto, “Jai Jagat” (Glory be to the World). Offering a curriculum from Montessori through senior secondary levels, CMS places strong emphasis on peace education and global citizenship.

Shukla spent 15 formative years in this environment before joining the Indian Air Force, where he trained as a fighter pilot. His selection for the Axiom mission comes at a time when India is expanding its ambitions in human spaceflight, including its indigenous Gaganyaan programme.

The significance of Shukla’s upcoming flight goes beyond personal achievement. It signals India’s growing footprint in the commercial space sector and offers a powerful narrative to inspire the next generation to pursue careers in STEM. With private players like Axiom Space opening new avenues for international partnerships, both educators and policymakers are reflecting on how such milestones can shape young minds and future aspirations.

As India strides towards a future that includes both planetary stewardship and space exploration, stories like Shukla’s prompt an important question: are our schools equipped to prepare students not just for life on Earth, but also for the possibilities that lie beyond?

Also Read: Dr Jagdish Gandhi, founder, City Montessori School, passes away at 87