Mrs. Akanksha Samuel’s story is one of true dedication and visionary leadership, focused on both academic excellence and environmental sustainability. As the Principal of PM SHR Kendriya Vidyalaya No.1 Ordnance Factory Katni, her journey reflects her commitment to making a meaningful impact in education and raising awareness about vital environmental issues. Her career as a Principal Academician is filled with numerous accolades at both state and national levels. Her innovative approach to integrating cleanliness and green practices into the school culture has been widely recognized.

Notably, at Kendriya Vidyalaya No.2, GCF, Jabalpur, her efforts led to multiple state-level awards such as the “Harit Vidyalaya” and “Swachh Vidyalaya” puraskar. Her leadership culminated in the school becoming the only one in Madhya Pradesh to win the prestigious “Swachh Vidyalaya Puraskar” at the national level in 2022, underscoring her commitment to a cleaner, greener future.

Upon her transfer to PM SHRI Kendriya Vidyalaya No.1, Katni, her passion for environmental issues, particularly water conservation, took center stage. The region’s water crisis, exacerbated by excessive mining, sparked her innovative approach to water management. Right from establishing traditional rainwater harvesting and bio composting, her innovative idea of covering shallow pits with perforated lids and having perforated drains ensured zero water waste. The data on the Piezometer reflect that the simple efforts were instrumental in raising the water table. The creative solution of using glucose bottles and IV sets for irrigation has gathered attention from the Ministry of Education, further validating her leadership. Her dedication extends beyond the school grounds.

She actively involves the local community, using student-created murals and posters at Katni South Railway Station to spread awareness about water conservation. The students’ weekly interactions with passengers on the trains serve as an example of how small actions can lead to significant change. These efforts led to national-level recognition from the Center for Science and Environment in 2024, where the school was honored with the “Change Maker Award.” She received a certificate of leadership for her contribution to resource efficiency and for nurturing environmentally conscious students.

Her relentless work was further celebrated by common people as well as local leaders, including the Mayor and MLA of Katni, showing the widespread appreciation of her efforts. Through her leadership, she is demonstrating how education can be a powerful tool in creating a sustainable future. By inspiring the next generation to take ownership of environmental conservation, she’s laying down the foundation for a greener, more sustainable tomorrow.

Her journey exemplifies the profound impact that one leader can have in both the education sector and the broader community, proving that true leadership is about inspiring change and improving lives.