Bengaluru marked an important milestone in education with the inauguration of India’s first K-12 School of Innovation, Creativity, and Design, Ekya Nava, on Sunday. The launch took place during the second edition of the FIND festival, which is Ekya School’s flagship celebration event. The event underscored the school’s mission to provide a purpose-driven education designed to develop problem-solving skills, creativity, and community engagement among students.
According to a press release from Ekya School, “This purpose-based school is designed to nurture a problem-solving mindset throughout a student’s learning journey, igniting purpose through experiential methods and community involvement. Ekya Nava aims to cultivate the future generation of thinkers, innovators, technology-forward entrepreneurs, and shapers of the world.”
A Vision for Quality Education
The inauguration was attended by Madhu Bangarappa, Karnataka’s Minister for Primary and Secondary Education. In his address, Bangarappa highlighted the importance of innovation in education, emphasizing, “Quality education matters the most. To truly improve it, we must give educators and institutions the freedom to innovate.” His statement reinforced the need for flexible and creative approaches to learning, aligning with the vision that Ekya Nava seeks to promote.
Highlights of the Inaugural Event
The inauguration featured a range of activities designed to showcase the school’s innovative approach:
- Design Thinking Challenge: Students and attendees engaged in activities aimed at fostering creative problem-solving skills.
- Learning Showcase: Displays of student projects exemplified the practical application of innovative educational methods.
- Interactive Workshops and Panel Discussions: Experts and educators shared insights on future-ready education models.
- Museum Installations and Human Library: These unique features allowed attendees to explore various themes and stories, enriching their understanding of educational diversity.
- Student Life Gallery: A dedicated space showcased the vibrant student community and their experiences at Ekya Nava.
One of the key highlights of the event was the launch of the book “Prompting the Future – AI for Transformative Teaching,” published by the Ekya Professional Development Institute. The book explores the potential of artificial intelligence in enhancing teaching methodologies and fostering transformative educational practices.
A Step Forward for Education in India
Ekya Nava’s establishment represents a significant step forward in the Indian educational landscape, introducing a new model that integrates creativity, design thinking, and practical learning with traditional academic subjects. This K-12 institution aims to prepare students for future challenges by nurturing their capacity for innovation, encouraging independent thought, and equipping them with skills essential for leadership in a rapidly evolving world.
The school’s emphasis on experiential learning aligns with contemporary educational trends that prioritize real-world problem-solving and adaptability. Through community involvement, Ekya Nava intends to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application, helping students develop a robust understanding of how to apply what they learn in meaningful ways.
Conclusion
The inauguration of Ekya Nava during the FIND festival set a strong example of what forward-thinking educational institutions can achieve. By focusing on nurturing a problem-solving mindset and emphasizing experiential learning, Ekya Nava is poised to inspire a new generation of students who are not only academically accomplished but also equipped to become the innovators and leaders of tomorrow.
