#289 Inclusive Innovation: 27 Years of Teaching, Technology, and Transformation with Hema Mandanna

This episode features Hema Mandanna, history teacher and administrator at Mallya Aditi International School, Bangalore, in conversation with host Philippa Wraithmell. Hema reflects on her 27-year teaching journey and the evolution of education technology in India’s tech capital.

The discussion covers key themes of teacher autonomy, professional development, and the integration of iPads and accessibility tools that transformed learning for students with diverse needs. Hema recounts how early adoption of EdTech positioned her school to handle challenges such as remote learning and inclusivity, ensuring technology serves pedagogy rather than the other way around.

The episode also examines the school’s proactive engagement with AI in education, ongoing teacher training, and how a culture of openness and collaboration fosters confident, critical thinkers. Hema’s story stands as a testament to how innovation and equity can coexist when educators lead with trust, creativity, and compassion.