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Ekya / March 25, 2024 Posted by : administrator

In its commitment to holistic education, Ekya Schools conducted a Parent-Child Bonding Trek on 6th January 2024. This event, involving 56 parent-child pairs along with 5 dedicated educators and TrekNomads, has garnered attention for its innovative and rigorous approach to strengthening familial bonds. 

Grounded in research, studies have shown that strong parental bonds significantly enhance children’s communication skills, emotional well-being, and academic success. However, with the advent of technology, there has been a notable encroachment on family time, affecting these bonds. The increased screen time and lack of outdoor activities pose challenges to the development of healthy parent-child relationships. Addressing this, Harvard University’s Center on the Developing Child highlights the importance of ‘serve and return’ interactions between children and caregivers, emphasising their crucial role in healthy brain development and learning capabilities. The Center’s research underscores the need for meaningful interactions, which are now more important than ever in the face of technological distractions and reduced outdoor activities. 

Keeping this context in mind the trek was organised to provide a dynamic environment for these ‘serve and return’ interactions. The act of navigating through nature’s challenges together fosters a sense of achievement and mutual reliance, crucial for building strong emotional connections. 

During the trek, we actively assisted our students and their parents with essential considerations. We conducted preparatory sessions to help foster understanding and respect for each other’s physical and emotional needs, ensuring everyone was aware of the importance of these factors. We also provided detailed checklists for the necessary gear and emphasised staying hydrated and maintaining a pace that was comfortable for everyone. This guidance not only ensured a safe and enjoyable trek but also taught our students valuable lessons in planning, responsibility, and compassion. By focusing on these key aspects, we enhanced the overall trek experience, making it educational and enriching for all. 

Furthermore, we understand the importance of experiences like trekking to foster deeper family connections in an increasingly digital world. By organising these treks, we aim to create opportunities for our students and their families to engage in direct communication and collaborative experiences, reinforcing familial bonds. Our focus extends beyond academic learning by providing holistic educational experiences that nurture emotional intelligence and social skills. Through these outdoor activities, we seek to enhance interpersonal understanding and prepare our students as aware, compassionate, and engaged individuals, ready to make a difference in the world.

Participants’ feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, affirming the trek’s impact on enhancing communication and understanding within families. One parent remarked, “The trek was well organised! Thanks to Ekya Schools for giving me and my daughter a very fulfilling and bonding experience!” Echoing this sentiment, a student shared, “The trek with my parents was wonderful. We talked, laughed, and worked together as a team. It’s something I’ll always remember and cherish.” 

Dr. Tristha Ramamurthy, Founder and Principal of Ekya Schools, has been the driving force behind this initiative. Her vision of education extends beyond the conventional classroom, emphasising the critical role of emotional and social development. “Our Parent-Child Bonding Trek is a reflection of our belief in nurturing not just intellectually capable, but emotionally resilient individuals,” remarked Dr. Ramamurthy, who has long been an advocate for innovative educational methods. 

This event marks a significant step in Ekya Schools’ continuous pursuit of innovative educational experiences, prioritising not only academic excellence but also the emotional and social development of its students and their families. Looking ahead, Ekya Schools plans to introduce more such initiatives to further enhance its holistic educational approach. 

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Ekya / March 25, 2024

Celebrating Doctors' Day: Honoring Healthcare Heroes in Ekya

In a spirit of gratitude and admiration, our campus gathered on June 30th to celebrate Doctors' Day, honouring the legacy of Dr Bidhan Chandra Roy and the invaluable contributions of healthcare professionals worldwide. This year's commemoration was elevated by the presence of Dr Raksha, a respected paediatrician from R M Hospital, who graciously shared her expertise with our students. The day began with a meaningful discussion led by Dr Raksha about the key components of sustaining good health. From emphasizing the importance of cleanliness and a balanced diet to highlighting the significance of quality sleep and minimal screen time, Dr Raksha imparted invaluable insights to our little learners. What truly stood out was the genuine enthusiasm and engagement displayed by our students throughout the session. Their eagerness to absorb knowledge and their thoughtful questions reflected a deep-seated appreciation for the importance of health and well-being in their lives. Dr. Raksha was visibly moved by their receptiveness and commended them for their active participation. Upon the event's conclusion, a strong sense of gratitude and admiration filled the surroundings, acknowledging the tireless dedication of healthcare professionals like Dr. Raksha. Their persistent commitment to healing and compassion serves as an inspiration to us all, and Doctors' Day provides an opportune moment to express our heartfelt appreciation for their invaluable service. In commemorating Doctors' Day, we honour the legacy of Dr Bidhan Chandra Roy while reaffirming our commitment to prioritizing health and wellness in our lives. Through events like these, we aim to cultivate a culture of gratitude and respect for the medical profession, inspiring future generations to embrace wellness as a cornerstone of their journey towards a fulfilling life.

Ekya / March 25, 2024

Field Trip to Janapada Loka: Ekya’s Cultural Exploration

On June 30th, grade 8 students from Ekya JP Nagar went on an educational field trip to Janapada Loka. The visit was more than simply a recreational outing; it was an essential part of their curriculum. Students were studying Karnataka's rich folk culture and geography as part of their academic syllabus. The trip was carefully arranged to provide a practical and engaging experience that enhanced their classroom learning. By visiting Janapada Loka, students had the opportunity to witness firsthand the concepts and topics they had been studying.  Through interactive activities and guided tours, students could apply their classroom knowledge to the discovery of Janapada Loka, obtaining useful insights and improving their educational experience.

Introduction to Janapada Loka:

When the students arrived at Janapada Loka, they were greeted with the vast landscape that awaited their exploration. They set out on an expedition into Karnataka's cultural history, led by the teachers and expert guides. They had plenty of enriching encounters along their journey. Students gained excellent insights into the various parts of our culture by learning about traditional practices like ‘Kamsale’ and ‘Karaga’, as well as visually studying statues reflecting tribal communities. Also,, they had the opportunity to come across forgotten yet still existing equipment from the past, providing them with a tangible connection to Karnataka's historical roots.  This experience helped the students get a deeper respect for our rich heritage and a sense of pride in their cultural identity. 

Discovering Traditional Arts and Crafts:

One of the highlights of their trip was the enchanting performance of Janapada songs by a staff member. This musical performance entertained the students and also deepened their appreciation for our culture. They had a great time learning about folklore, legends, and links to previous generations. Through this fascinating journey, kids got significant insights into the traditions that have been passed down through time, as well as how they are still valued and celebrated in today's world.  The trip to Janapada Loka had a profound effect on the students. Experiencing Janapada songs and exploring folklore enhanced their appreciation for Karnataka's cultural heritage. They left with a renewed sense of pride, ready to uphold and cherish our traditions in the future.

Ekya / March 25, 2024

Ekya Byrathi celebrates Literacy Week to foster the love for reading

Ekya Byrathi held a special week dedicated to all things books, Literacy Week, from January 30th to February 3rd, 2024. This exciting week, themed "Read Across Ekya," aimed to spark a love of reading in young students.  There were lots of exciting activities planned throughout the week to make reading enjoyable for the students.
  • The celebration commenced with ‘Hats Day’.
  • Next came ‘Show and Tell’ and ‘Drop Everything and Read’ Day. Students got to share their favourite books with their classmates and then had some quiet time to get lost in a good story.
  • One of the highlights was ‘Comprehension and Bookmark Activity’ Day. Students dressed up as their favourite book characters and participated in fun activities that helped them understand the stories they read better. They even made their own bookmarks to take home!
  • The week ended with a special ‘Too Sleepy Day’ session. Parents were invited to join their children for a cozy reading time.
The whole week was a big hit with the students and teachers alike. It was a great way to show the importance of reading and to encourage a lifelong love of books.  Ekya Byrathi is committed to creating enriching experiences for its students, and Literacy Week was a perfect example of that!
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FIND Festival 2023

Reflecting on the monumental Ekya FIND Festival 2023, hosted on the vibrant grounds of CMRIT Campus, Bengaluru, this past November 4th, one can't help but feel a surge of excitement and pride. This event wasn't just another entry in the calendar; it was a significant leap forward in K-12 education, uniting a community passionate about crafting new learning pathways. The festival began with a visionary flourish, courtesy of Dr. Tristha Ramamurthy, Founder of Ekya Schools. Her opening remarks encapsulated our commitment to educational innovation, setting the stage for a day of insightful dialogue and discovery. "Positioned as India's pioneering global learning platform, the FIND Festival 2023 emerges as a transformative force in the K-12 education arena," she proclaimed. Adding to the inauguration's prestige, Shri. Rajeev Chandrasekhar, Honourable Minister of State for Skill Development & Entrepreneurship and Electronics & Information Technology, inspired attendees with his keynote, reinforcing our role in leading the educational renaissance in modern India. He stated, “I am privileged and honoured to be a part of this unique FIND Festival and learn about the institute’s commitment to focus on extraordinary teaching. ” A particularly exciting moment came with the announcement of Ekya Nava, marking the beginning of a new chapter in the landscape of K12 Education. Shri. Rajeev Chandrasekhar's unveiling speech underscored the limitless opportunities available to the young minds nurtured by our innovative educational approach. The festival also celebrated a significant literary milestone with the release of "Creating Extraordinary Educators: A Teacher’s Roadmap to Becoming Extraordinary." Dr. A. S. Kiran Kumar, Former Chairman of ISRO, and Chairperson of the Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre, hailed the work as a crucial guide for educators striving towards excellence, underlining its potential to redefine the teaching landscape. Published by Scholastic India, this book promises to be an essential resource for educators far and wide. The "Design Thinking Challenge" spotlighted the incredible power of creative problem-solving, drawing in 30 teams, including 14 from external schools. Centered around finding innovative and sustainable packing solutions that promote recycling, the challenge exemplified the potential of design thinking in addressing real-world sustainability issues. It underscored the importance of collaboration and innovative thinking, establishing a benchmark for future-focused learning. Throughout the festival, insights and innovations were shared by esteemed individuals, including Dr. K. P. Gopalkrishna, Founder and Chairman of National Public Schools, and other luminaries. Their shared wisdom inspired a vision of revitalizing the teaching profession and bridging societal gaps through quality education, echoing a message of hope and progress. The festival was also a showcase for our students' creativity and problem-solving skills, highlighting their comprehensive learning journeys. The Learning Showcase and Student Development Gallery illuminated the diverse, enriching experiences available at Ekya, while the ‘ReThink Education Booth’ symbolized our dedication to evolving educational practices and technologies. As the festival concluded, Shri. K. R. Jayadeep, Director of Ekya Schools, expressed heartfelt gratitude to all who contributed to this landmark event. The Ekya FIND Festival 2023 has indeed cemented its place as a keystone event, sparking a collaborative spirit aimed at enlightening the future of education. We extend our deepest thanks to every attendee, parent, speaker, participant, and volunteer, whose insights and efforts have rendered the FIND Festival 2023 an unforgettable fusion of ideas and ambitions. For those who missed experiencing the festival in person, a complete recording is available on YouTube, ensuring that the spirit of FIND – the Future of INnovation and Design – continues to resonate within every classroom, lesson, and heart across the Ekya community, until we gather again to celebrate the relentless pursuit of learning, learners, and extraordinary educators.

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A Day of Learning and Fun: An Outing to the Prani Pet Sanctuary

On July 14th, Ekya Schools organised an unforgettable trip for our Grade 3 students to the Prani Pet Sanctuary, just a short drive from our lively city. At Prani, where rescued animals find solace and care, our students discovered firsthand the beauty of coexistence with our furry and feathered friends. It was a day where every student learned the importance of living harmoniously with animals, fostering empathy and understanding for the creatures we share our world with. 

Exploring the Pet Sanctuary

When our excited students stepped foot into the sanctuary, their excitement was very evident. Welcomed by passionate staff members, staunch advocates of animal welfare, and stewards of the sanctuary's mission, the children were immediately drawn to the serene surroundings and the harmonious cohabitation of diverse animal species. The air was filled with interest as our young learners took in the sights and sounds of this lively sanctuary, where each creature played an important role in nature's delicate balance. Every corner gave a fresh opportunity for discovery and wonder, from horses grazing gently to hedgehogs' mischievous antics.

Engaging Learning Opportunities

Throughout the day, the students were engaged in a plethora of engaging educational activities, meticulously designed to captivate their interest and develop a deeper understanding of animal care. These activities, conducted by the trained sanctuary staff, went beyond mere observation, delivering hands-on experiences that left a lasting impression on our students. From interactive demonstrations on responsible pet ownership to insightful discussions on the diverse needs of different animals, each session served as a stepping stone towards greater empathy and awareness. Our students eagerly learned the importance of creating safe and nurturing environments for all creatures, big and small.

Hands-on Experience

The highlight of the outing was undoubtedly the hands-on interaction with the sanctuary's residents. Under the watchful guidance of the staff, our students relished the opportunity to cuddle rabbits, feed birds, and engage with farm animals such as horses, goats, ponies, and even Emu Pat the hamster. These experiences not only nurtured empathy and kindness but also instilled a profound sense of responsibility among our young learners, as they realized the emotional complexity of animals and the importance of their well-being.

Impact on Our Students

Leaving the Prani Pet Sanctuary, our students carried with them more than just memories; they took home a newfound sense of compassion and responsibility towards animals.  The day spent among the sanctuary's animals created a lasting impression, inspiring several kids to become animal welfare champions. Some eagerly discussed plans to adopt pets, while others expressed a keen interest in volunteering at similar organizations.  It was clear that their experiences at Prani had not only expanded their knowledge of the animal species but also ingrained in them a strong feeling of empathy and purpose. The trip to the Prani Pet Sanctuary left a lasting impression on our students. They discovered the importance of caring for animals and nature, learning valuable lessons about responsibility and compassion. As they return home, they bring with them a newfound appreciation for the world around them and a desire to make a positive difference. This experience has empowered them to become thoughtful and caring individuals, ready to embrace the challenges of tomorrow with empathy and kindness.
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