Special Assemblies and Events 2026-27

Hosting KHOJ, Second Edition: Reimagining Classrooms Through Life Skills

Pune, Maharashtra | 25th April, 2026

On 25th April, 2026, S.B. Patil Public School, Pune, proudly hosted the second edition of KHOJ — an Inter-school Faculty Convention aligned with the United Nations’ SDG #4, reaffirming its commitment to quality education and meaningful pedagogical dialogue. Building upon the success of its inaugural chapter, KHOJ 2025 emerged not merely as an event, but as a living, breathing exchange of ideas — where classrooms met conscience, and research met reality.

Centred on the theme “Life Skills: A Journey towards Joyful Classrooms”, the convention sought to reimagine education beyond textbooks — to explore how learning can become more humane, more relevant, and quietly transformative. In a time where academic rigour often overshadows emotional intelligence, KHOJ gently but firmly shifted the lens back to what truly matters — the child, the experience, and the joy of learning.

The event commenced with an auspicious lamp lighting ceremony by all the esteemed guests, whilst the Saraswati Vandana was melodiously rendered by the school choir, setting a tone of reverence and purpose for the day.

In her introductory message, principal, Dr. Bindu Saini emphasised, “If the previous edition focused on how we teach, this year invited educators to pause and reflect on why and for whom we teach."

This subtle yet powerful shift marked a deeper philosophical turn — from methodology to meaning, from instruction to intention. She urged educators to look beyond strategies and into the very purpose of education itself, placing the learner — not the system — at the centre of all inquiry.

The convention brought together passionate educators from across institutions, each carrying not just presentations, but lived experiences from their classrooms. Their research reflected a shared urgency — to create spaces where students do not merely perform, but belong.

The event was elevated by the presence of an esteemed panel of experts. The mentor for the convention, Dr. Sangeeta Gole, academic consultant, brought depth and perspective, guiding the intellectual direction of the event with her vast experience in education.

The distinguished speakers included Mr. Shringi Dubey, Director of Asha Educational Society, and Dr. Namrata Majhail, principal-director of The Orchids School. Their insights moved beyond theory, thus motivating educators to embrace inclusivity, dealing effectively with classroom challenges with respect to the changing socio-emotional needs of learners, and how — at the end of the day — teachers need to give priority to their own emotional wellbeing.

The panel of judges — Dr. Leena Pimpley, mentor of K–12 schools, and Dr. Amrutha Joshi, polyglot, writer, educator, and career coach — brought both rigour and sensitivity to the evaluation process. Their feedback was not merely evaluative, but developmental — pushing participants to think deeper, question stronger, and refine further.

Distinguished guests included the leadership team from KK Wagh, Nashilk; and Ms. Shubhra Varma, the principal of Meena Bhujbal School of Excellence, Nashik.

The event was seamlessly hosted by Ms. Abhaya Ravishankar and Ms. Swaleha Mujawar, whose poised compeering ensured a smooth and engaging flow throughout the day, balancing professionalism with warmth.

The event saw eight participants from schools all over Maharashtra — The Knowledge Habitat School, Pune; Smt. Surajba Vidya Mandir, Mumbai; M.P. Shah English High School, Mumbai; Antar Bharati Balgram, Lonavala; and S.B. Patil Public School.

Attended by over 150 members, the event saw thought-provoking presentations to reflective discussions. The atmosphere was one of intellectual curiosity and collaborative growth. Ideas were not just presented — they were challenged, reshaped, and enriched.

One of the most telling moments, however, came quietly at the end when the guests expressed how everything the event had was the need of the hour, and that they would have their faculty participating in next year’s KHOJ event. Dr. Sangeeta Gole deeply impressed by the vision and execution of KHOJ by S.B. Patil Public School’s team, expressed a keen interest in initiating a “KHOJ: Nashik Edition” — a testament to the event’s impact and its potential to grow beyond a single institution.

S.B. Patil Public School extends its heartfelt gratitude to the PCET management, mentors, speakers, judges, participants, and organisers, and all who contributed to making this convention a meaningful success. It is through such collective effort that ideas find direction, and education finds its purpose.

KHOJ continues — not as an event confined to a date, but as a journey that quietly shapes the way we teach, learn, and understand.

Where Words Come Alive and Stories Breathe:
The English Language Day and World Book Day Special Assembly

Pune, Maharashtra | 23rd April, 2026

English Language Day and World Book Day were celebrated with great enthusiasm on 23rd April, 2026, bringing together students across various grades in a vibrant and intellectually enriching programme. The celebrations were led by students of Grade IV and V, along with active participation from senior students of Grade X and XII, making the occasion both comprehensive and memorable.

The assembly commenced with a warm and thoughtful introduction that highlighted the importance of the English language as a global medium of communication, alongside the invaluable role of books in shaping knowledge, perspective, and imagination. This set the tone for a programme that seamlessly blended literary appreciation with creative expression.

One of the highlights of the event was a series of energetic monologues presented by senior students on Shashi Tharoor and Sarojini Naidu, celebrating their immense contributions to English literature and Indian intellectual thought. These performances added both depth and historical context to the celebration.

The programme further featured a thoughtful speech emphasising the importance of cultivating a daily reading habit, followed by an engaging skit titled “The Magic of Books,” which beautifully conveyed the idea of books as gateways to creativity, knowledge, and endless adventure. A graceful poem recitation complemented this segment, portraying books as lifelong companions that quietly shape our inner worlds.

Adding an academic dimension to the celebration, interactive sessions on Basic English and Advanced English were conducted, aimed at strengthening language skills and encouraging confident communication among students.

The celebration extended beyond the stage into classrooms, where students fr om various grades participated in a range of engaging activities. Students of Grade I and II enthusiastically took part in story-building games, riddles, and word chain exercises, enhancing both their vocabulary and creative thinking. Grade III students contributed through poem recitations and by viewing an informative presentation on the significance of English Language Day and World Book Day, deepening their understanding of the occasion.

The school auditorium also featured a display of books by Indian authors, alongside creative English language projects prepared by students, reflecting both literary appreciation and imaginative effort. The event concluded on a high note with a vibrant musical performance in English, adding rhythm and energy to the proceedings.

As a gesture of gratitude, all English language teachers were invited on stage and felicitated for their dedication and guidance. Their role in shaping the success of the programme was acknowledged with heartfelt appreciation. The celebration concluded with a vote of thanks, expressing sincere gratitude to the principal, teachers, and students for their collective effort and participation. Overall, the event proved to be both enriching and enjoyable, leaving students inspired to appreciate the beauty of the English language and to nurture a lifelong love for reading.

Earth in Their Hands:
Nurturing Young Guardians of Tomorrow

Pune, Maharashtra | 22nd April, 2026

On 22nd April, 2026, Earth Day was celebrated with great enthusiasm in the primary section of the school, engaging students from Grades I to V in a series of thoughtfully designed, hands-on activities. The initiative aimed to nurture environmental awareness, creativity, and a sense of responsibility among young learners through meaningful participation and experiential learning.

The celebration sought to introduce the concept of Earth Day in a simple yet engaging manner, encouraging students to develop an emotional connection with the planet while understanding the importance of sustainable practices such as reducing plastic usage. Through a blend of music, art, and practical activities, students were provided opportunities to express environmental messages creatively, while also gaining insights into reforestation and plant propagation.

Students demonstrated a clear understanding of Eart h as their shared home and showed an emerging awareness of eco-friendly alternatives, particularly in reducing reliance on plastic. They communicated environmental concerns effectively through artistic expression and developed sensitivity towards the needs of birds and urban wildlife. The activities also enabled them to grasp how plants grow and spread naturally, fostering both creativity and a sense of care for the environment.

Each grade participated in a unique activity tailored to its level of understanding. Students of Grade I created vibrant Earth-themed wristbands, creatively designing and colouring representations of the planet. Grade II students explored sustainable alternatives by designing and crafting paper bags using eco-friendly materials.

Grade III students combined performance and art by presenting an Earth Day action song alongside poster-making activities that highlighted environmental protection. In Grade IV, students constructed bird feeders using recyclable and waste materials, promoting awareness about supporting urban wildlife. Meanwhile, Grade V students engaged in preparing clay seed balls, gaining hands-on experience in plantation techniques and understanding the importance of reforestation.

The Earth Day celebration served as a meaningful platform to instil early environmental consciousness among students, encouraging them to adopt responsible practices and contribute positively towards the well-being of the planet.

Balancing Duty and Joy: Emotional Intelligence Through Indian Wisdom

Pune, Maharashtra | 17th April, 2026

On 17th April, 2026, the Counselling Department of S.B. Patil Public School conducted an enriching and thoughtfully curated session titled “Balancing Duty and Joy: Emotional Intelligence Inspired by Indian Wisdom.” The workshop was facilitated by Ms. Manasvi Kulkarni and Ms. Sabitha Nair, who brought together philosophy, psychology, and practice in a manner that felt both rooted and relevant.

The session opened with a reflective exploration of key Indian philosophical ideas — Dharma (duty) and Ananda (inner joy). Rather than presenting them as opposing forces, the facilitators gently revealed how these concepts can coexist, guiding individuals to live with purpose while remaining anchored in personal fulfilment. Participants were encouraged to examine how responsibilities need not come at the cost of inner peace, but can, in fact, become pathways to it.

This dialogue was further enriched through parallels drawn with the Japanese concept of Ikigai, thoughtfully reinterpreted through an Indian lens of self-realisation and meaningful contribution. The conversation moved beyond theory, inviting participants to reflect on their own lives — where duty feels heavy, where joy feels distant, and where the two might meet if given con scious attention.

Building on this philosophical grounding, the session transitioned into core emotional intelligence competencies. Self-awareness was positioned as the starting point — the ability to recognise one’s emotional patterns without judgement. This was followed by self-regulation, emphasising mindful responses over impulsive reactions; empathy, as a means to deepen human connection; and social skills, essential for nurturing supportive and healthy relationships. Each element was presented not as abstract terminology, but as lived, practicable habits.

A particularly evocative moment in the session was the integration of music as a therapeutic tool. The use of the sitar created a calm, almost meditative atmosphere within the space, allowing participants to momentarily step away from cognitive engagement and simply feel. The gentle resonance of the instrument echoed traditional Indian understandings of sound as a medium for healing, offering a sensory experience of stillness, release, and reconnection.

Through guided reflections and interactive exercises, participants were invited to map their own balance between duty and joy — not as a fixed destination, but as an evolving practice. The session concluded with practical, grounded takeaways, leaving both parents and staff with a renewed perspective on emotional well-being — one that honours responsibility without abandoning the self.

It was not merely a workshop, but a quiet reminder — that a life well-lived is not a choice between duty and joy, but a careful weaving of both.

Celebrating the Legacy of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar

Pune, Maharashtra | 13th April, 2026

On the occasion of Ambedkar Jayanti, the Grade VI students hosted their first special assembly of the academic year in the school auditorium, led with great enthusiasm by the students of Blue House

The assembly paid a heartfelt tribute to the life and contributions of Bharat Ratna Dr. B. R. Ambedkar. Adhiraj Kale of Grade VI G delivered an inspiring speech that traced Babasaheb’s remarkable journey — from his early struggles to his pivotal role as the principal architect of the Indian Constitution

This was followed by a short film that highlighted Dr. Ambedkar’s achievements and his unwavering commitment to social justice, equality, and education. The assembly stood as a meaningful reminder of Babasaheb’s enduring message: “Educate, Agitate, Organ ise.”

Kudos to our Grade VI students and Blue House for a thoughtful and impactful beginning to the year.

The Gifted Students’ Nurturing Programme Parent Orientation

Pune, Maharashtra | 11th April, 2026

On 11th April, 2026, S.B. Patil Public School hosted an insightful orientation session for the Gifted Students’ Nurturing Programme, following the careful identification of students who would benefit from this specialised initiative. The session was expertly conducted by Dr. Sameena Mansawala and Ms. Pooja Phatak from Kaveri Gifted Education and Research Center.

The session familiarised parents with the programme’s multi-level structure, its foundational framework, and the essential role they play in supporting their children’s intellectual and emotional growth. It served not merely as an introduction, but as a thoughtful invitation for parents to become active participants in their child’s journey.

particularly compelling aspect of the session was the integration of Indian philosophy into the nurturing approach, seamlessly blending ancient wisdom with contemporary educational practices to ensure holistic development. Parents engaged in meaningful discussions around the nuanced distinction between “gifted” and “talented” children. Ms. Pooja Phatak articulated this beautifully, explaining that giftedness reflects innate potential, while talent is the result of sustained effort, guidance, and refinement.

The session concluded on a note of enthusiasm and clarity, with parents expressing both confidence and eagerness to implement the insights gained. As Dr. Sameena Mansawala aptly remarked, “Nurturing gifted minds is a shared journey. Let us illuminate their paths together.” This orientation marks a significant step forward in building a supportive ecosystem for the identified students, paving the way for the development of future thinkers, creators, and innovators

Reinforcing the Value of Education and Future Collaboration:
A Visit by Guests from the African Nations Prosperity Fund

Pune, Maharashtra | 2nd April, 2026

S.B. Patil Public School recently had the honour of distinguished guests from the African Nations Prosperity Fund (ANPF) and Ministry of Education, Mr. Moses Kampamba, Director of Presidential Scholarships, Ministry of Education and ANPF Partnership; Dr. Tresford Chomba, President & Founder, ANPF; and Dr. Alice Kapesa, Vice President, ANPF. They were accompanied by Ms. Nisha Kotak, Marketing Manager - Africa, PCET; and Ms. Meghana Pachpute, Counsellor, PCET. Their visit marked a meaningful exchange of ideas, perspectives, and aspirations centred around education and holistic development.

The guests were warmly received by the school leadership team, who extended a gracious welcome and introduced them to the institution’s ethos and functioning. The interaction set a cordial tone for the visit, reflecting the school’s culture of openness and collaboration.

A significant highlight of the visit was the engaging session with the Grade X students. During this interaction, students confidently articulated their learning experiences, shedding light on the academic framework, co-curricular exposure, and the functioning of the school council. Their ability to express themselves with clarity and conviction stood as a testament to the school’s emphasis on communication, leadership, and critical thinking.

Dr. Tresford Chomba addressed the students with a message that was both inspiring and grounded in reality. He spoke about the transformative power of education, describing it not merely as a tool, but as a blessing — one that enables individuals to rise, evolve, and create meaningful change in their lives and communities. He emphasised that education is, in essence, a ladder to success, and each step taken with sincerity and effort brings one closer to achieving their aspirations. His words resonated deeply with the students, leaving them with a renewed sense of purpose

The visit also included a tour of the school’s robotics lab, where the faculty provided a detailed overview of the activities and learning modules conducted. The demonstration of hands-on learning, innovation, and technological integration showcased the school’s commitment to preparing students for a rapidly evolving world.

Dr. Chomba expressed his admiration for the school’s progressive approach and the dedication of its faculty. He commended the institution for fostering an environment that balances academic rigour with practical exposure, and for nurturing students who are not only knowledgeable but also articulate and forward-thinking.

In addition to the interactions and observations, the visit opened avenues for future collaboration between the African Nations Prosperity Fund and S.B. Patil Public School. Both parties engaged in discussions exploring potential partnerships aimed at enhancing educational opportunities, fostering cross-cultural exchange, and promoting innovative learning initiatives.

The visit concluded on a note of appreciation and shared vision, leaving behind not only admiration but also the promise of meaningful collaboration in the future — a step forward in strengthening global educational ties and enriching student experiences.