The FIND Festival 2024, held at Ekya Nava, marked a significant milestone in the educational landscape of India, celebrating innovation, creativity, and design. This annual flagship event brought together educators, students, and thought leaders to explore new horizons in learning and teaching. Here’s a recap of the inspiring events that unfolded during this vibrant festival.
Inauguration of Ekya Nava
The festival commenced with the much-anticipated inauguration of Ekya Nava, India’s first purpose-based school dedicated to innovation, creativity, and design. The atmosphere was filled with excitement as educators, students, and thought leaders gathered to mark this significant milestone. Dr. Trishtha Ramamurthy articulated a powerful vision for the future, stating, “This year’s theme, Children and the Future, focuses on the skills and mindset needed to shape tomorrow’s world.” It was evident that Ekya Nava is not just a school; it represents a transformative approach to education for generations to come.
Book Launch: “Prompting the Future”
A highlight of the festival was the launch of “Prompting the Future: AI for Transformative Teaching” by the Ekya Professional Development Institute. This book serves as a vital resource for educators navigating the complexities of artificial intelligence in the classroom. It provides practical tools aimed at enhancing instructional efficiency and effectiveness. As Madhu Bangarappa remarked during the launch, “Quality education matters the most. To truly improve it, we must give educators and institutions the freedom to innovate.” This sentiment echoed throughout the festival as participants engaged in discussions about empowering educators.
Design Thinking Challenge
One of the most dynamic parts of FIND Festival was the Design Thinking Challenge, where participants addressed a thought-provoking question: “How might we use technology to promote kindness in our community?” Teams collaborated to brainstorm innovative solutions that could genuinely make a difference. The atmosphere buzzed with creativity as ideas flowed freely, showcasing how problem-solving can lead to meaningful change.
Workshops: Catalysts for Change
The FIND Festival also featured an array of immersive workshops designed to inspire educators and learners alike. These sessions focused on exploring emerging trends and technologies shaping education today. Participants engaged in hands-on experiences led by experts in various fields, gaining valuable insights into how they can implement these innovations within their own classrooms. The workshops served as a dynamic platform for exchanging ideas and inspiring action towards meaningful change in educational practices.
Human Library: Stories That Inspire
A unique addition to this year’s festival was the Human Library, where individuals served as “books,” sharing their personal stories and life experiences with attendees. This initiative created an enriching environment that promoted empathy and understanding through open dialogue. Participants had the opportunity to engage with diverse perspectives, challenging stereotypes and fostering mutual respect within the community. The Human Library exemplified how storytelling can bridge gaps and create deeper connections among individuals.
Student Life Gallery Walk
The festival culminated with a Student Life Gallery Walk, showcasing the remarkable achievements of Ekya Nava students. This exhibition highlighted their projects and innovations developed throughout their educational journey at Ekya Schools. Parents, educators, and community members were invited to explore these displays, celebrating the creativity and hard work of young learners. The gallery walk not only recognised student accomplishments but also inspired others to pursue their passions fearlessly.
Conclusion
The FIND Festival 2024 at Ekya Nava was more than just an event; it was a celebration of a transformative approach to education that prioritizes innovation, creativity, and real-world connections. By bringing together diverse voices from across the educational spectrum, this festival reinforced the importance of collaboration in shaping future generations.
As we look ahead, it is clear that initiatives like Ekya Nava are paving the way for a new era in education—one that empowers students to think critically, act compassionately, and innovate boldly. The insights gained from this festival will undoubtedly resonate throughout the academic community as we continue to strive for excellence in education.