Reekrit Serai : Inspiring a Generation of Educators & Leaders
Reekrit Serai
Managing Director
Each year, the institute attracts students from all across the globe, including India. Indian students have long been drawn to UCL, seeking to expand their knowledge and contribute to a diverse academic environment that fosters creativity, critical thinking, and global leadership.
One such individual who has embraced these values of UCL is Reekrit Serai, the Managing Director of Satluj Group of Schools. Reekrit’s professional journey spans several industries including media, IT, pharmaceuticals, and financial services, where he cultivated resilience, adaptability, and a focus on innovation.
Despite his success in these fields, Reekrit always felt a deep connection to education, a legacy passed down from his grandfather, Late S. Pritam Singh Serai, who founded the Satluj Group of Schools in 1976. Recognizing his responsibility to continue this legacy, Reekrit dedicated his career to modernizing and expanding Satluj, which now includes 15 autonomous institutions across North India.
Under his leadership, Satluj Group of Schools has become one of the most prestigious school groups in the region, consistently ranking among the Top 3 CBSE Day/Day-Boarding Schools in India and No. 1 in Haryana and Panchkula. His commitment to progressive education has been recognized by leading publications like Education Today, The Times of India, and Digital Learning.
Reekrit’s transformative journey also took him back to London, where he studied at UCL’s IOE. The experience of completing his MBA in Educational Leadership at the No. 1 ranked program reignited his passion for learning and leadership.
The guidance of esteemed professors, including Trevor Male and Ian Craig, helped him align his vision for Satluj Group of Schools with cutting-edge educational practices. Today, Reekrit continues to integrate advanced technologies and global connections into Satluj’s curriculum, preparing students for success in a dynamic world. Let’s read on.
Can you share the most valuable lesson or experience you took away from your time at University College London?
My time at University College London (UCL), especially at the prestigious Institute of Education (IOE), was a transformative experience. Returning to London, where I had completed my schooling, to study the MBA in Educational Leadership was both nostalgic and inspiring.
It reignited my passion for learning and leadership. My grandfather, who believed deeply in the power of education, encouraged me to pursue my studies in London, which gave me the courage to balance my professional responsibilities with academics.
The IOE’s focus on innovation and global leadership aligned with my vision for Satluj Group of Schools. The guidance of Professor Trevor Male and support from Professor Ian Craig during my dissertation made the experience truly rewarding.
While balancing travel between India and the UK was challenging, my wife Radhika's unwavering support allowed me to focus on my studies as she looked after our daughter Reemyra, along with my parents. The lessons I learned at UCL are creativity, empathy, and leadership. These lessons continue to inspire me as I work to redefine education and make a lasting impact.
In what ways did the university's transformative learning experiences, both academic and extracurricular, influence your ability to drive meaningful change in your leadership of Satluj Group of Schools?
At UCL, I learned that education goes beyond the classroom. The Institute of Education taught me how to connect theory with practice, innovation with empathy, and global perspectives with local action, lessons that shaped my leadership at Satluj. The concept of ‘transformative education’ became central to our curriculum, leading to the adoption of Applied Learning frameworks where students not only excel academically but also solve real-world problems.
UCL’s focus on evidence-based decision-making inspired me to base policies and strategies at Satluj Group of Schools on research and data. Furthermore, initiatives like our international exchange programmes and the Satluj Career Fest, which attracts over 15,000 students glob ally, equip our students with both academic strength and the global exposure necessary to thrive in today’s dynamic world.
How did the university, beyond academic knowledge, foster a sense of morality, social responsibility, and commitment to public
My time at University College London (UCL), especially at the prestigious Institute of Education (IOE), was a transformative experience. Returning to London, where I had completed my schooling, to study the MBA in Educational Leadership was both nostalgic and inspiring.
It reignited my passion for learning and leadership. My grandfather, who believed deeply in the power of education, encouraged me to pursue my studies in London, which gave me the courage to balance my professional responsibilities with academics.
My advice to aspiring education leaders is to be empathetic, adap -table, & innovative
The IOE’s focus on innovation and global leadership aligned with my vision for Satluj Group of Schools. The guidance of Professor Trevor Male and support from Professor Ian Craig during my dissertation made the experience truly rewarding.
While balancing travel between India and the UK was challenging, my wife Radhika's unwavering support allowed me to focus on my studies as she looked after our daughter Reemyra, along with my parents. The lessons I learned at UCL are creativity, empathy, and leadership. These lessons continue to inspire me as I work to redefine education and make a lasting impact.
In what ways did the university's transformative learning experiences, both academic and extracurricular, influence your ability to drive meaningful change in your leadership of Satluj Group of Schools?
At UCL, I learned that education goes beyond the classroom. The Institute of Education taught me how to connect theory with practice, innovation with empathy, and global perspectives with local action, lessons that shaped my leadership at Satluj. The concept of ‘transformative education’ became central to our curriculum, leading to the adoption of Applied Learning frameworks where students not only excel academically but also solve real-world problems.
UCL’s focus on evidence-based decision-making inspired me to base policies and strategies at Satluj Group of Schools on research and data. Furthermore, initiatives like our international exchange programmes and the Satluj Career Fest, which attracts over 15,000 students glob ally, equip our students with both academic strength and the global exposure necessary to thrive in today’s dynamic world.
How did the university, beyond academic knowledge, foster a sense of morality, social responsibility, and commitment to public
service in you?
UCL instilled in me the belief that education is a powerful tool for social change. My professors and peers emphasized that true leadership involves giving back to society, an ethos that has inspired initiatives at Satluj Group of Schools. We've introduced Community Outreach Programmes, where students participate in activities like tree plantations and food drives, fostering empathy and social responsibility. Additionally, UCL taught me that ethics and morality are integral to decision-making, shaping Satluj Group of Schools' commitment to value-based education. We aim to nurture compassionate, ethical leaders who balance personal success with societal progress.
What memory from your time at the university stands out the most to you?
One of my most vivid memories at UCL was during a group project that involved designing an educational policy for underserved communities. Collaborating with peers from diverse cultures and professions, I realised how collective wisdom could address even the most complex challenges. This experience taught me the value of teamwork, inclusivity, and open-mindedness, the qualities I strive to instil in the culture at Satluj Group of Schools.
How do you envision the long-term future of your professional journey?
My long-term goal is to continue transforming education, both in India and globally. At Satluj Group of Schools, I aim to expand our network to 200 schools, providing students with a blend of academic excellence and holistic learning. Collaborations with organizations like CII, TIE, and PRCI will help equip students with the skills needed for a rapidly changing workforce. Personally, I aspire to inspire future educators and leaders to view education as a mission, not just a profession, to create a more equitable world.
What advice would you offer to aspiring leaders in this field?
My advice to aspiring education leaders is to be empathetic, adaptable, and innovative. Education is ever-evolving, and leaders must embrace change while upholding values of compassion and inclusivity. Leadership also requires a commitment to lifelong learning, drawing lessons from peers, students, and challenges. Most importantly, remember that education is a powerful tool for change, so use it wisely to make a lasting impact.
Reekrit Serai, Managing Director, Satluj Group of Schools
Reekrit Serai is the Managing Director of Satluj Group of Schools, leading its expansion across North India. With a background in diverse industries and a degree from UCL’s Institute of Education, he champions transformative education and lifelong learning.
UCL instilled in me the belief that education is a powerful tool for social change. My professors and peers emphasized that true leadership involves giving back to society, an ethos that has inspired initiatives at Satluj Group of Schools. We've introduced Community Outreach Programmes, where students participate in activities like tree plantations and food drives, fostering empathy and social responsibility. Additionally, UCL taught me that ethics and morality are integral to decision-making, shaping Satluj Group of Schools' commitment to value-based education. We aim to nurture compassionate, ethical leaders who balance personal success with societal progress.
What memory from your time at the university stands out the most to you?
One of my most vivid memories at UCL was during a group project that involved designing an educational policy for underserved communities. Collaborating with peers from diverse cultures and professions, I realised how collective wisdom could address even the most complex challenges. This experience taught me the value of teamwork, inclusivity, and open-mindedness, the qualities I strive to instil in the culture at Satluj Group of Schools.
How do you envision the long-term future of your professional journey?
My long-term goal is to continue transforming education, both in India and globally. At Satluj Group of Schools, I aim to expand our network to 200 schools, providing students with a blend of academic excellence and holistic learning. Collaborations with organizations like CII, TIE, and PRCI will help equip students with the skills needed for a rapidly changing workforce. Personally, I aspire to inspire future educators and leaders to view education as a mission, not just a profession, to create a more equitable world.
What advice would you offer to aspiring leaders in this field?
My advice to aspiring education leaders is to be empathetic, adaptable, and innovative. Education is ever-evolving, and leaders must embrace change while upholding values of compassion and inclusivity. Leadership also requires a commitment to lifelong learning, drawing lessons from peers, students, and challenges. Most importantly, remember that education is a powerful tool for change, so use it wisely to make a lasting impact.
Reekrit Serai, Managing Director, Satluj Group of Schools
Reekrit Serai is the Managing Director of Satluj Group of Schools, leading its expansion across North India. With a background in diverse industries and a degree from UCL’s Institute of Education, he champions transformative education and lifelong learning.