SAI International will be held a Round Square inspired event ‘Booktopia’ a global reading fest to encourage the essence of reading on Saturday, June 26, 2021. The Global event had participants of around 500 students from seven countries; Japan, South Korea, South Africa, Rwanda, Uganda Pakistan and India.  The event was aimed at inspiring the young generation to read books and share their ideas and experiences with others.  The keynote speaker for the evening was a Michigan based Writer, Composer, Singer, Actor, Musician & a “teen prodigy” Ms. Elise Marra.

Ms. Elise Marra a 17 year old Writer, Composer, Singer, Actor, Musician & a “teen prodigy” from Michigan, encouraged our young readers and writers to pursue their dreams.

Participants had  an opportunity to listen to the insights of prominent keynote speaker, get involved in interactive sessions and meet avid readers from around the world.

While interacting with the students Ms. Elise Marra, emphasized upon developing a reading habit for one’s personal growth. Ms. Marra was highly impressed by the students of SAI International and thanked to school for organizing such an insightful event for the cause of the students.

All Round Square inspired events promote several of the IDEALS and this event is no exception. Internationalism is the most prominent, when the youth of different countries come together under one umbrella and share their interests and find commonalities, internationalism is at the center. Adventure is normally considered to be a physical activity but what if we are talking about adventures of the mind, which is exactly what reading a book is Leadership. When the youth of different countries come together under one umbrella and share their interests finding commonalities.

Booktopia incorporated many of the Round Square Discoveries including communications skills, inquisitiveness, inventiveness, self awareness, appreciation for diversity, ability to solve problems, sense or responsibility, compassion, courage and teamwork.  Students will gain basic life skills and will provide a chance to improve skills such as organizational, collaboration, problem-solving, critical and creative thinking, task management skills along with intellectual skills, cognitive strategy and verbal and written information. Furthermore, individuals will reinforce their grammar, vocabulary, pronunciation, reading and writing, basically all linguistic skills.

Students were divided into 10 barraza sessions themed on the book genres ie, fiction, classic adult fiction, magical, mystery and so on. The names of the barraza reflected the genre of the group aiming at discussing, debating and writing about their favorite book of that particular genre.

Speaking on the occasion Vice Chairperson SAI International, Dr. Silpi Sahoo said, “Reading is an enriching experience that shapes a child and deepens one’s thoughts and feelings. It widens our world, expands our perspectives and enhances our imagination. We, at SAI International wish to develop a habit of reading books amongst the youth of today as it not only enhances the vocabulary but also instills values like empathy and acceptance. It influences the way we perceive different things and opens our heart to possibilities.”