By OUR STAFF REPORTER
Dehradun, 24 Nov: Dehradun Hills Academy (DDHA), hosted a showcase celebrating the successful completion of its Service Civil International (SCI) International Work Camp. The evening event highlighted the outcomes of an intensive two-week Cultural Exchange Programme held from 11 to 23 November, which brought together international volunteers and local participants in a unique blend of ancient wisdom and modern learning approaches. The programme’s focus on integrating traditional knowledge with contemporary educational methods created a rich learning environment that fostered cross-cultural understanding and collaboration.
The showcase witnessed the presence of Dr CNN Raju, Treasurer Head of SCI, DDHA Founder and Chairperson Sandeep Singh and Seema Singh, and DDHA MD Yudhishter Puran Singh. The event celebrated the spirit of collaboration, cultural exchange, and the successful integration of Indian Knowledge Systems into contemporary education. Local community leaders and educational professionals from neighbouring institutions also attended, making it a significant gathering for the regional educational community.
The teachers and students welcomed the gathering and introduced the work camp’s vision of promoting Indian Knowledge Systems while fostering intercultural dialogue. She highlighted how the camp served as a bridge between different cultures, enabling participants to discover shared values despite their diverse backgrounds. Sandeep Singh followed with an eloquent introduction of the collaborative initiative between DDHA and SCI, emphasising their shared vision of promoting peace and understanding through volunteer work.
The heart of the evening featured presentations from four distinct groups, each comprising SCI volunteers, teachers, and DDHA students. Each group showcased two meticulously crafted videos capturing their unique projects and experiences during the work camp. The presentations covered various themes including sustainable living practices, traditional art forms, cultural heritage preservation, and modern interpretations of ancient wisdom. These were enriched by insightful commentary from the media club students, who shared their personal journeys and perspectives on how the camp transformed their understanding of cultural exchange.
In his address, DDHA Managing Director Yudhishter Puran Singh emphasised the significance of cultural exchange in today’s interconnected world. “These work camps serve as bridges between cultures, reminding us that despite our differences, our core values remain universal,” he stated. He particularly praised the integration of Indian Knowledge Systems into the camp’s curriculum, highlighting how ancient wisdom continues to offer solutions to contemporary challenges. His speech emphasised DDHA’s commitment to nurturing global citizens who are rooted in traditional values while embracing modern perspectives.
Dr CNN Raju expressed his admiration for the institution’s approach: “I am genuinely surprised and deeply impressed by Dehradun Hills Academy. To see the Gurukul system alive and thriving in such a beautiful manner is remarkable. This institution reminds me of Shantiniketan – it’s extraordinary to witness a school that so effectively combines traditional value systems with modern education.”
The evening culminated in an award ceremony presided over by Seema Singh, who emphasised the transformative power of cultural exchange programmes in shaping young minds. The awards presented included Trophy for Outstanding Contribution: Keepers of Ancient Wisdom Award: which went to Indian Knowledge Systems Presentation Team, for their outstanding work in bridging traditional and modern knowledge to the team led by Nirav & Punnapatt
The Community Spirit Award went to Mayureashwar Desai, for exceptional teamwork and dedication; the Global Citizen Award to Debora Mantovani, for exemplifying cross-cultural understanding; the Humble Heart Award to Jessica Xavier, for her dedicated service and empathy. The Hands-On Helper Award went to Nishad K Saleem, for tireless support of practical activities; the Visual Storyteller Award to Gaurav Ram, for exceptional documentation; the Artistic Vision Award to Nirav Mahandale, for creative excellence.
The Most Dynamic Student award was given to Prachi Rajan, for outstanding participation and leadership; Future Leader Award to Punnapatt, for demonstrating exceptional potential; the Unassuming Leader Award to Lobsang Sherpa for quiet but impactful leadership; the Unsung Hero Award to Kanyathat (Ink), for behind-the-scenes contributions; the Quick Thinker Award to Harshita Singh, for innovative problem-solving; the Driven Spirit Award to Reyansh Chaudhary.
The two-week cultural exchange programme successfully wove together traditional Indian knowledge systems with contemporary learning approaches, creating an enriching educational experience for all participants. Through workshops, collaborative projects, and cultural immersion activities, participants gained deep insights into both traditional wisdom and modern educational methodologies.
Also present were Abhinash, National Secretary, Janak Gaur, Bhupender among others from SCI Working Committee, team India.
