"The beginning of knowledge is curiosity, and its fulfillment is in service"
A team of five students -
Ambikeshwari Rathore, Riddhi Rao, Saanvi Kachhawaha, Roisin Agarwal & Sonakshi Pareek along with their Teacher Escort, Mrs Mukta Singh participated in the Round Square Conference hosted by the
Sunbeam Suncity School, Varanasi from 7th to 11th August 2024. A total of 230 students from 26 schools across India and Europe assembled to deliberate on the theme of the
Conference; ‘Connect to Conserve’. The Conference had been a melting pot of ideas, strategies, and empathy fostering a vision for a better world. The evening of August 7 dazzled us with a mesmerizing performance of “Haman Hai Ishq Mastana,” which explored the life and philosophy of Kabir Das. This musical journey into Daastangoi captivated the audience, promoting themes of unity and harmony through the timeless wisdom of Kabir's teachings. Before concluding the night, attendees were treated to a special screening of the acclaimed movie, "The Elephant Whisperer".
Next day, the Opening Ceremony set a powerful tone, emphasizing ‘Service’ as a bridge between ideas and actions, igniting the spirit of selflessness in all of us. The keynote sessions and engaging Barazas sparked new insights, fueled innovative ideas and visionary thoughts. The inspiring Keynote Speaker, Mr Anand Neelakantan, a renowned author and speaker, in his session on “Reimagining Heroes: The Role of Fiction in Inspiring Social Change” highlighted how Storytelling can reshape societal values and inspire change. He discussed the power of fictional narratives to challenge norms, redefine heroes and motivate communities towards a more just society, emphasizing the crucial role of literature and media in driving social transformation. Mr. Nadeem Kadri, Chairman of the Town Area Committee and President of the Saffron Growers' Cooperative Society in Pampore, passionately addressed the urgent need to save Pampore's Wetlands. In his session on “Ecology & Learning,” he emphasized the importance of preserving this vital ecological area, advocating for conservation efforts and raising funds. Mr. Kadri also expressed his commitment to showcasing Pampore's rich heritage and natural resources to the world. The next day featured the Gramin School Service Project, which empowered participants with practical skills, memorable interactions, and the essence of selfless service through creativity. This was followed by a session of the Keynote Speaker: Mr. Takar Nabam. His presentation highlighted how Trans Himalayan Music serves as an effective medium for performance-based learning. His session emphasized music's role in engaging students, nurturing creativity, promoting cultural appreciation, and deepening their understanding of diverse heritage.
The day continued with a Maker's Activity and Skill Lab, concluded with a Baraza session. The following day began with a visit to the Obeetee Rug Making Center, where we observed traditional craftsmanship. This cultural immersion continued with visits to the Banaras Beads factory, further showcasing the rich heritage of traditional craftsmanship. This was followed by a Session of the Keynote Speaker. Mr. Harpreet Singh Grover - Independent Researcher on Children & Parents and Founder of ‘The Curious Parent’. His keynote address, “The Power of Resilience: Education, Entrepreneurship, Service, Responsibility and its Linkages,” delved into how resilience influences various life aspects. We explored the world of cinematography, uncovering the depth of digital art and cherishing the vibrant tapestry of life. The power-packed discussions and deliberation during the baraza sessions provided an enriching and enjoyable experience to all the attendees, fostering exchange of views, personal growth, and a deeper understanding about the theme of the Conference; Connect to Conserve.
