Right Vs Left Brain

Could you explain why it is essential to develop students who are capable of using both sides of the brain effectively?
It is understood that the left part of our brain does the analytical or logical thinking and the right part controls our emotional/creative thinking. The fact is that we need both kind of thinking abilities in life. But over a period of time, probably due to our education system, we have grown to depend more and more on analytical/rational/logical thinking.
Logical thinking normally uses a path where every question has to be answered in ‘Yes or No’, ‘This or That’ and ‘1 or 0’ etc. Traditional logic comprehends only what is consistent and non-contradictory in nature. Life, however, is defined by ambiguity; inconsistency and  contradictions are the hallmarks of human existence. Therefore, using only logical methods can affect our innate thinking patterns and our ability to be creative. 
Besides, how long can one succeed using only one half of the brain?

Is the tendency to be left or right brained genetic? If so, can one really replace one’s natural thinking patterns?
Genetically, we are all capable of using both sides of our brain. It is what happens later and how we educate ourselves that changes things for us.

At what age do you think schools/colleges and parents should start programming their kids to think with both sides of their brain?
Ideally, one should start as early as possible. Unfortunately, our education system focuses on the left side predominantly. That’s why Picasso says, “Every child is an artist. The problem is how to remain an artist once he grows up.” 

Could you give us examples of the techniques being used to encourage balanced right- and left-brain thinking amongst students?
There’s the Crafting Creative Communication (CCC) programme curriculum presented on the MICA website, such as Random Association, Redefine the Problem, Scamper and Mind Mapping to name a few. Some of the techniques are unique and proprietary, such as “Transcreativity—a festival of learning” and “Search Engines for Creativity” designed by Prof Amar Gargesh.
Also, in the flagship PGDM-C programme, the emphasis on the right-left brain balance is laid right from the selection process itself. Unlike most B-school tests, MICAT is designed to assess not only the analytical ability and logical reasoning, but divergent thinking and creative-writing skills as well. It has a psychometric component, which essentially judges if the candidate has a balanced right-left brain aptitude. Moreover, during the two years on campus, alongside coursework,activities like theatre and literary societies provide space for right-brain nurturing. 

Have you implemented techniques to encourage students at MICA to use both sides of their brains? What have you observed post implementing these techniques?
These techniques are mostly part of the CCC curriculum. One has to see to believe the transformation that takes place in the span of a year. Our students go from being talented but unsure and trying to find a foothold, to becoming extremely confident with a great portfolio and their eyes fixed firmly on Cannes Lions.
@AverilNunes