Preface

Schools are often seen as microcosms of society, playing a crucial role in fostering happiness, well-being, and socio-emotional learning among young people. These environments are essential for the holistic development of children, contributing to their academic success and lifelong fulfilment. A positive and happy school environment nurtures the full potential of both students and teachers, enabling them to thrive socially, emotionally, and academically. In India, there is growing concern that students are increasingly unhappy, and burdened by a highly competitive and stressful education system. This situation calls for a reimagining of school education through the lens of happiness. Inspired by the “Happy Schools Guide and Toolkit,” I envisioned a transformative approach to schooling that prioritizes happiness as a fundamental goal. This led to the creation of a resource aimed at helping teachers and policymakers adopt a humanistic approach, where the happiness of learners is paramount. This approach aligns with UNESCO’s Sustainable Development Goal 4 (SDG 4), which emphasizes quality education. This resource focuses on a whole-school approach, emphasizing values, attitudes, knowledge, skills, and competencies to achieve quality learning outcomes. It aims to cultivate sustainable, inclusive, and peaceful societies by integrating happiness into education. A happy school is linked to positive schooling, where happiness is seen as integral to learning, health, and well-being. This resource is a vital resource for educators seeking to create happy, engaging, and supportive learning environments. By adopting the Happy Schools Framework, educators can foster a culture of happiness that enhances both academic and personal growth, leading to a more fulfilling educational experience. “Happy Schools: Education of the 21st Century from Lenses of Happiness” aims to guide and inspire educators, policymakers, and all stakeholders committed to the transformative power of happiness in education. Prioritizing the happiness and well-being of students not only improves educational outcomes but also lays the foundation for a more compassionate and harmonious society.