A Scottish-based education specialist has been named as the recipient of a prestigious award in her native India for her pioneering work in innovative methods of teaching STEM (science, technical, engineering and maths) subjects.

Glasgow academic Dr Rashmi Mantri (pictured above), Managing Director of the British Youth International College (BYITC), won the Maharaja Agrasen Global Icon Award at a glittering ceremony in the Dr Ambedkar International Centre in New Delhi.

The accolade, bestowed by the Speaker of the India Parliament, Mr Om Birla, recognises Dr Mantri’s work on abacus-based maths education and her Supermaths programme, which has designed a structured curriculum on a robust, paperless platform, creating a game-based learning approach.

It also follows a 50% increase in female enrolment at BYITC, an expansion into the international arena and a 50% increase in its hiring of educators, whom the college trains in-house to international standards.

Dr Mantri said: “India has made significant strides in recognising contributions to STEM and education, while also prioritising the representation and participation of women in governance and in the workforce, paving the way for a more inclusive and empowered society.

This award reflects my BYITC team’s campaign to apply the best of India’s STEM hybrid teaching model where, despite a disparity of resources, there is a great deal for us in the UK to learn from.”

She added: “It is also a reminder of the power of persistence and I remain committed to championing maths education and fostering community development worldwide.

I believe learning should be engaging, impactful and accessible and this recognition affirms my passion for creating educational change.

It reinforces the responsibility to keep striving for excellence and to inspire and empower young minds through education and to carry on the work of encouraging more young girls into STEM subjects.”

At another ceremony at Ajmer in India last month, Dr Mantri was given the Exceptional Contribution in Education Award at an evening with the Ajmer Zila Maheshwari Sabha Sanstha. Her sister, Dr Alka Mantri, also received an award.

Dr Rashmi Mantri also took part in December in the Rising Rajasthan Summit in Jaipur, the state capital, an event which was attended by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and outlined ambitious development plans for the populous region.

BYITC is now offering affordable, flexible, and world-class online courses. It is proving attractive for parents whose careers are international, facilitating a seamless learning experience for families transitioning between countries and ensuring uninterrupted education.

The BYITC now runs global franchises, including in Dubai and Sri Lanka, and recently launched its first UK franchise in Basingstoke, Hampshire.