"Embracing diversity, fostering leadership, and shaping tomorrow's global citizens — in the circle of Round Square, we find the inspiration to learn, the courage to lead, and the compassion to serve."- Anonymous
The Round Square Forum for Schools in the South Asia and Gulf Region unfolded with grandeur at The Indian High School Dubai from the 17th to the 20th of November 2023. SAI International actively participated in this enriching experience, represented by the Academic Director and Senior Principal, SAI International School, Shri Nilakantha Panigrahi, and Round Square representative, Ms. Binati Misra.
A Grand Congregation: The two-day mega event witnessed a gathering of 105 members from 52 schools across South Asia and the Gulf region. Distinguished attendees included heads of schools, directors, school owners, and Round Square representatives. The welcoming atmosphere extended by the host school set the stage for a collaborative and insightful conference.
Opening Ceremony Extravaganza: The opening ceremony on the evening of the 17th marked the beginning of this educational extravaganza. Participants were greeted by The Indian High School Dubai, Round Square CEO Ms. Racheal Westgarth, School Support Director Ms. Rajbir Sandhu, and Sarah from Round Square. The event commenced with cultural splendor, setting the tone for the days to come.
Best Practices Showcase: Representatives from various schools shared their best practices during the conference, covering a diverse range of topics. The presentations included insights into student leadership, sports collaborations, character development, adventure programs, community outreach, and innovative pathways in education. Each session provided a glimpse into the unique approaches taken by different schools, fostering a rich exchange of ideas.
Round Square Heroes of Discovery: The final day introduced a captivating pilot project, the Round Square Heroes of Discovery. This innovative endeavor showcased schools presenting their heroes in a creative and interactive manner. SAI International's representative, Ms. Binati Misra, was part of the team that presented "Compassionate Carlos," winning the competition and receiving prestigious trophies reminiscent of the Oscars.
Building Strong Networks: Beyond presentations, the Forum provided a platform for members from different Round Square schools to share ideas and best practices, fostering a robust network for further development of school partnerships. The collaborative spirit at the event echoed the Round Square ethos of international understanding, democracy, environmental stewardship, adventure, leadership, and service.
The Round Square Forum 2023 was not just an event; it was a testament to the power of collaboration and the exchange of ideas in shaping the future of education. SAI International left its mark by actively participating, sharing, and learning, contributing to the vibrant tapestry of Round Square's global community. As we return, inspired and enriched, we look forward to incorporating these valuable insights into our educational practices at SAI International.
