Pune: Sanjay Ghodawat International School (SGIS), Pune, the education arm of Sanjay Ghodawat Group, successfully hosted India’s first-ever in-person AFS Global STEM Innovators Conference. The conference took place from June 21–24, 2025, in association with AFS Intercultural Programs India. Over 100 students from 15 schools across India came together for immersive learning, vibrant exchange of ideas, innovation, and cultural exchange, all centered around the theme “Be the Voice for a Better Tomorrow.”
This four-day conference marked a significant milestone for both SGIS and AFS, with the inaugural Indian cohort participating in a hands-on immersive experience focused on STEM education and the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Hosted on SGIS’s scenic hilltop campus, the conference was a blend of learning, team-building, and cultural celebration.
With an impressive 70% participation from girl students, the conference strongly reflected the growing presence and leadership of young women in science and technology. Over four days, participants explored critical global issues, proposed sustainable solutions, and connected across cultures.
Sasmita Mohanty, Director, Sanjay Ghodawat Group of Schools, expressed her thoughts, “STEM education plays a pivotal role in shaping tomorrow’s leaders. Hosting the first-cohort AFS national conference at SGIS Pune has been both an honour and a learning experience. The enthusiasm, curiosity, and creativity witnessed by our students reaffirms the importance of creating such opportunities where young minds can think, explore, and innovate freely.”
Ms. Diya Badgel, National Director, AFS Intercultural Programs India, shared her thoughts, “Seeing students from diverse backgrounds come together to ideate, problem-solve, and build meaningful connections truly brought the spirit of global citizenship to life. SGIS Pune’s exceptional hosting, combined with their commitment to global learning, created the ideal setting for young minds to thrive and lead with purpose.”
The agenda included impactful keynote sessions that broadened students’ understanding of real-world applications of STEM. Mr. Balaji Ramanujam delivered a powerful address on “Build Your Human Skills in the World of AI”, where he highlighted the importance of emotional intelligence, adaptability, and human-centric skills in an increasingly automated world. Mr. Shekhar Jain led a session on “Renewable Energy & STEM Careers”, encouraging students to explore the vast and growing opportunities in green innovation and sustainability-focused careers. In another engaging session, Drone Sports India introduced students to Drone Soccer—a high-energy game that merges fun with critical skills like teamwork, strategic thinking, and problem-solving.
A powerful panel discussion on “STEM and Gender Equality – Encouraging Diversity in Science and Technology” prompted students to reflect on the role of inclusivity in driving innovation and better problem-solving. The conference also featured team-building activities, cultural performances, and paper presentations, creating space for collaboration beyond the classroom. Students shared creative solutions to global challenges—from climate change to gender equity—demonstrating their ability to apply knowledge with empathy and purpose.
SGIS Pune is a fully residential school with state-of-the-art infrastructure, offering IGCSE (Cambridge) and IB curricula. Located on a scenic 55-acre hilltop, the campus is a pure vegetarian environment that promotes mindful living. The school offers 10+ sports facilities, including a cricket ground, basketball court, horse riding arena, archery zone, and a swimming pool. Built on the belief in holistic education, SGIS combines academic excellence with strong values and essential life skills. It nurtures physical development alongside intellectual growth and is committed to inspiring young minds to become responsible global citizens—empowered to lead, innovate, and transform society for the better.
