Preparing Students for a Better, Fruitful Tomorrow

This year, the International Baccalaureate (IB) marks its 50th anniversary in India.

- Simple Vishwakarma

In an exclusive conversation with the Free Press Journal, Mahesh Balakrishnan, Development Senior Manager — India, IB Board, spoke about the evolution of IB in the country, its student-centric approach, the growing popularity of IB schools beyond metros, and how the board continues to prepare Indian students for both national and global higher education. He also shared insights on the IB’s alignment with India’s National Education Policy, inquiry-based learning, and the future of international education in India.

FPJ: What’s new with the IB board? What’s coming up?

Balakrishnan: This year, we're celebrating 50 years of IB in India. The IB first came to the country in 1976 with Kodai International School. Many people still see IB as a new board, but while we constantly evolve and set trends, we've actually been here for half a century. We've been able to stay relevant because of that ability to adapt and innovate.

FPJ: Over these 50 years, has anything significantly changed? And what’s next for IB after this milestone?

Balakrishnan: What has remained consistent is our student-centric approach. That's what IB has been known for across these decades—developing learners and using education as a way to make the world a better place. We'll continue to build on that in the years to come.

Of course, education itself is undergoing rapid changes, especially since the COVID-19 pandemic. Future skills, tomorrow’s jobs, and India’s new education policy are all shaping the sector. IB stays closely aligned with these shifts. Being a global and respected voice in education, we've been able to adapt to these changes effectively, and we'll keep doing so in the next 50 years.

FPJ: Could you explain how the IB curriculum develops students’ skills and competencies?