On this occasion, Dr. Lakshyaraj praised the dedication and courage of the Indian Armed Forces, stating that the nation has witnessed their courage and valour over the years. The presence of Air Force officers at the event today has infused a new sense of energy and enthusiasm in everyone. These brave individuals have risen above personal lives to serve and protect the country. We must learn and draw inspiration from them, he said.
Earlier, in his welcome address, ScooNews CEO Ravi Santlani emphasized the importance of inclusivity in the field of education. He shared that this year, the Ed-Fest has brought together over 750 educators and speakers from across India and abroad, representing various school boards, including school principals, educationists and directors. During the event, 10 ‘Teacher Warriors’ selected from different regions of the country were felicitated by Shriji Dr. Lakshyaraj Singh Mewar. These educators have shown remarkable determination, empathy and courage, making significant contributions to the field of education despite facing social and institutional challenges.
The programme began with a musical and dance performance titled “Echoes of Ability” by children who are deaf, mute, visually impaired, and living with HIV. Their beautiful performance won the hearts of all in attendance.
Following this, an insightful session was held on “Reimagining the Future of International Education in India – From Global Intent to Local Impact”. Syed Sultan Ahmed, Chairperson of TAISI and Dr. Seeta Murty, Director of Silver Oaks International Schools, engaged in a detailed discussion on the format and culture of international education in India. They highlighted how global education models can be effectively adapted in the Indian context.
During the day, various provocations and fireside chats were hosted on themes such as “Success 2030: Who Are We Really Educating For?”, “Co-Creating the Future of Indian Education”, and “Forging Future Patriots.” Several workshops were also conducted. In addition, an art exhibition titled “Tamasha” by Parinya Santlani was inaugurated on the occasion.
The ScooNews Memorial Awards 2025
The evening concluded on an inspiring note with the ScooNews Memorial Award Ceremony, honouring exceptional leaders who have made a remarkable impact on the field of education where Dr. Ameeta Mulla Wattal, Chairperson & Executive Director – Education, Innovations & Training, DLF Foundation was awarded with (Maharana Arvind Singh Mewar Award) For Outstanding Education Leadership; Dr. Deepak Madhok, Chairman of Sunbeam Group of Educational Institutions was awarded with (The Ashok Gupta Rise & Reform Honour) For Bold Reform and Educational Upliftment; Mukesh Sharma, Founder & Chairperson of Prometheus School was awarded with (The Kanni Thahryamal Prize) For Championing Education Against All Odds; Dr. Arthi Ganesh, Pro Chancellor, VELS University Managing Trustee, Vels Group of Institutions was awarded with (The Mohini Bakshi Spirit of Possibility Prize) For Inspiring Hope, Possibility, and Purpose in Education; Lata Vaidyanathan, Director of Gyan Bharati School, New Delhi was awarded with (The P.N.Kavoori Prize) For Values-Driven Learning; Rita Singh, Director of Indirapuram Group of Institutions was awarded with (The Rani Hooja Lifetime Footprint in Education) For a Lifetime of Impact in Education; Swati Roy, Festival Director & Co-Founder, Bookaroo Children’s Literature Festival was awarded with (The Sneh Lata Prize) For Building a Culture of Reading.
