This program is a continuation of our earlier engagements with Karkhana Samuha, beginning with Surya Sir’s sessions. The “Values to Vision” program originally started through Dipeshwor Sir’s PhD research. Designed as a 5-month engagement, we initially planned for six sessions. We participated in it on a project basis and learned a wide range of skills—logo design, color theory, new software like Inkscape, and how to shape school visions through tangible design.
Our first session took place at Saraswati Niketan School, where the “Values to Vision” journey began. We engaged in ideation exercises, learning how to generate and refine ideas, brainstorm, list, sketch, and create mind maps. These activities helped us understand the importance of thinking and planning before beginning a task, rather than diving in without direction.
We began with sketching random objects, like cars, which helped us transition into understanding design. Design is not just drawing—it’s about ensuring what you create communicates its intended meaning. For example, drawing a house isn't enough; we must check if all the necessary components are present. This process of layering meaning into visual form is design.
Before this program, I (Murari) hadn’t used Inkscape and didn’t know what a “gradient” was. We used to focus on pencil sketches, but here we learned how crucial colors and their combinations are. One particular color can change the entire message of a design. For instance, red can signify danger. Now I realize that a thoughtful use of multiple colors can add depth and clarity to the final output.
Initially, I (Kaushali) expected the sessions would just involve sketching. But as the sessions progressed, I realized we were designing something deeply meaningful. At first, I assumed “Values to Vision” referred to the values of Karkhana Samuha, but I later discovered we were designing based on our own school's values. That changed everything—it became a learning experience through which we created a design that represents our school in a meaningful way.
If we had simply listed our school’s values, they would have remained just words. But giving them visual representation through design made them come alive.
Plain statements are easy to overlook. But when embedded into design, those same statements become attention-grabbing and long-lasting. Designing the values helped us internalize them. We didn’t change the values—just gave them proper form and representation. That’s what made the learning lasting and impactful.
We always had some values in mind and had seen them used in brochures and banners of other schools. Our own school had a motto but no visual representation of values. We used to emphasize vision and mission, but now we’ve learned that values come first. Values shape the school’s identity. When students, parents, or teachers enter the premises, they should immediately sense what the school stands for.
Earlier, we didn’t know how to design for values or how long such a design should remain valid. The idea of integrating values visually into the school's model was completely new to us. Through this project, we decided to embed our values into a structure resembling our school—pillars, roof, and all—so the design and message are inseparable.
The sketching and design were done by Murari Sir. We both selected the value words, while the motto was already established. We selected value words that we felt genuinely represented our school:
Respect:
This is fundamental. Respect among students, teachers, and parents fosters a healthy environment. Even small actions like returning greetings with warmth can shift the school culture. A word like "Respect" placed on the school wall can encourage self-reflection.
Friendship:
We wanted a culture where friendship among students is natural and conflicts can be resolved without long-term negativity. A word like "Friendship" on the wall serves as a reminder to keep that bond alive—among students and teachers alike.
We shaped the design to resemble our actual school structure—including the yellow-colored roof and walls. The pillars in the design symbolized our seven chosen values. We asked ourselves: “What will these values bring?” That led us to include a reflection section.