Tag: education leadership

EduConnect

Dr. Onward O. Ognita Honored with Gawad Banyuhay Award for Transformative Leadership in Teacher Education

Tanisha Cardozo

Lauded for his transformative leadership and unwavering commitment to educational excellence, Dr. Onward O. Ognita, Dean of the College of Teacher Education (CTED) at Naga College Foundation, Inc. (NCF), was honored with the Gawad Banyuhay—Committed Education Builders Award by the Carl E. Balita Review Center (CBRC) on September 7, 2025, at the Albay Astrodome.

The award recognizes educators who embody the values of innovation, vision, adaptability, and social responsibility—qualities that Dr. Ognita has consistently demonstrated throughout his career. His leadership at CTED has brought forward significant strides in curriculum innovation, faculty development, and student engagement, making him a deserving recipient of one of the highest honors for educators in the Philippines.

The term “Banyuhay” is a blend of “bago” (new), “anyo” (form), and “buhay” (life)—a powerful concept that symbolizes transformation and growth. CBRC’s Gawad Banyuhay Award pays tribute to individuals who bring about meaningful change in education and society, guiding others through vision, action, and impact.

Dr. Ognita now joins the ranks of distinguished NCF leaders who have received this recognition. In previous years, Mr. Mario C. Villanueva, NCF President, and Dr. Stanley O. Dy, Dean and AVP for Health Sciences, were also honored for their outstanding contributions to education—under the merits of “Katatagan” (Resilience) and “Mapag-unlad na Ugnayan” (Progressive Relationships), respectively.

The entire NCF community proudly celebrates this latest achievement and extends its heartfelt congratulations to Lieutenant Dr. Onward O. Ognita, whose leadership continues to inspire a generation of educators and learners to pursue excellence, innovation, and service.

EduConnect

Goa Institute of Management Mourns the Passing of Former HUL Chairman and GIM’s First Chairman of the Board, Susim Mukul Datta

allycaralgoa

Goa, July 7, 2025: The Goa Institute of Management (GIM) expresses its deepest condolences at the passing of Mr. Susim Mukul Datta, a titan of India’s corporate world and the founding Chairman of the Board of Governors at GIM, who passed away at the age of 89 in Mumbai on Saturday morning.

Mr. Datta served as Chairman of GIM’s Board from 1993 to 2006 and was instrumental in setting the academic and ethical vision that would shape the institution into one of India’s premier management schools. His leadership extended beyond administration—he was a mentor, a strategist, and a friend to many in the GIM family.

Known best in the corporate world as the former Chairman of Hindustan Unilever Ltd. (then Hindustan Lever Ltd), Mr. Datta led the company through a period of significant transformation, including the iconic merger of Lipton Tea and Brooke Bond. His pioneering work in rural marketing helped shape India’s FMCG roadmap.

Over his distinguished career, Mr. Datta served on the boards of more than 21 leading Indian organizations, including Philips India, Tata Trustee Company, Castrol, IL&FS Investment Managers, Peerless, and Linde India. But GIM always held a special place in his heart.

Dr. Ajit Parulekar, Director of GIM, remarked:

“Mr. Datta played a very significant role in shaping the early years of the Goa Institute of Management. His guidance during GIM’s formative decade laid the foundation for what the institution has become today. Even after his formal retirement from our Board of Governors, he remained closely associated with GIM and visited our campus on several occasions. We will always be grateful for his wisdom, mentorship, and unwavering support through critical periods of our development.”

The GIM community extends its heartfelt sympathies to Mr. Datta’s family and loved ones. His vision, integrity, and commitment to excellence will continue to guide GIM for generations to come.