Agastya's Sandesh - August 2026
Updated: Aug 25
A Step Forward for Science Learning in Punjab
A new chapter in our work across Punjab begins with the signing of an MoU with the Sulochana Thapar Foundation, Thapar Institute of Engineering and Technology, and Thapar Education Trust.
Through this collaboration, we will bring Agastya’s hands-on science learning programs to Patiala, beginning with 5 Science Centres, 10 Mobile Science Labs, and Anveshana, our science and engineering fair. Together, these initiatives will create more opportunities for children to explore, experiment, build ideas, and learn by doing.
Turning Science Concepts into Classroom Experiences
Training sessions on the topic of ‘Light’ was conducted at the District Institute of Education and Training (DIET), Bidar, Karnataka, for science teachers of classes 6–10. The program was in collaboration with the Agastya Core Science Activity Centre, Bidar, and brought together 42 educators from five talukas.
The sessions focused on strengthening conceptual understanding of light through practical activities, demonstrations, and discussions. The training provided educators with ideas and approaches that they can take back to their schools and use while teaching science in Classes 6–10.
Building a Culture of Creative Thinking
26 Agastya’s Ignators from Maharashtra took part in the second year of the Creative Culture Education (CCE): Leading for Creative Thinking program, a two-day workshop held in Nerul, Maharashtra. The program was facilitated by Nia, Director of CCE, and Di, a CCE facilitator from the UK, building on the learning and experiences of the same group from the previous year.
The workshop focused on creative habits and their sub-habits, including Exploring & Investigating, Tolerating Uncertainty, and Reflecting Critically. Participants explored how these habits can shape everyday teaching and learning by encouraging children to ask questions, stay open to unfamiliar ideas and possibilities, and reflect on their experiences.
Reimagining School Leadership
A three-day residential workshop on “Culture of Learning” was held from 21 to 23 July 2026 at the Agastya Campus Creativity Lab, Gudivanka, Andhra Pradesh, in collaboration with Lehigh University, USA. The workshop brought together 24 school leaders from government, private, and aided schools for reflection, dialogue, and shared learning. Through discussions and activities around creative inquiry, AI, design thinking, science, mathematics, and ecology, participants explored new approaches to building learner-centered school cultures.
A key highlight was the exchange between school leaders and students and faculty from Lehigh University’s Department of Creative Inquiry, reinforcing the idea that everyone is a learner. The workshop concluded with participants developing practical, low-cost ideas to address challenges in their own schools, taking forward new perspectives on leadership, and creating a culture where curiosity, creativity, confidence, and caring can flourish.
