Pune: Sanjay Ghodawat International School (SGIS), Pune, proudly hosted the first-ever in-person AFS Global STEM Innovators Conference in India, in partnership with AFS Intercultural Programs India.
Held from June 21 to 24, the landmark event brought together over 100 high school students from 15 leading schools across the country for a transformative four-day learning experience.
Themed “Be the Voice for a Better Tomorrow,” the conference emphasized real-world STEM innovation aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). From collaborative problem-solving to cultural exchange, the program blended academic rigor with holistic development.
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One of the standout highlights of the AFS Global STEM Innovators Conference was the 70% participation by girls, reflecting a powerful shift in gender representation and leadership in science and technology.
“Hosting the first national AFS cohort has been an honor for SGIS Pune,” said Sasmita Mohanty, Director, Sanjay Ghodawat Group of Schools. “This initiative reinforces our belief in creating inclusive platforms that spark creativity, critical thinking, and leadership among the next generation.”
AFS Global STEM Innovators Conference: Keynote sessions
Balaji Ramanujam delivered an address on “Build Your Human Skills in the World of AI,” emphasizing emotional intelligence and adaptability.
Shekhar Jain explored “Renewable Energy & STEM Careers,” inspiring students to explore green innovation.
Drone Sports India introduced attendees to Drone Soccer, combining entertainment with team-building and strategic thinking.
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A thought-provoking panel discussion on “STEM and Gender Equality” addressed the importance of diversity in fostering innovation. The AFS Global STEM innovators conference concluded with student-led presentations on global challenges such as climate change and gender equity – demonstrating their ability to apply STEM learning with empathy and purpose.
“SGIS Pune offered the perfect blend of infrastructure and philosophy to host this event,” said Diya Badgel, National Director, AFS Intercultural Programs India. “The AFS Global STEM innovators conference is a model of what inclusive, globally aware STEM education should look like.”
Located on a serene 55-acre hilltop campus, SGIS Pune is a premier residential school affiliated with Cambridge IGCSE and IB curricula. The campus is vegetarian, sustainability-focused, and features more than 10 advanced sports facilities, including horse riding, swimming, archery, and more – supporting the school’s mission of cultivating well-rounded global citizens.
