22nd September 2026
The joint Valedictory and Orientation Function of the Gifted Nurturing Programme (GNP) was held on 22nd September 2026 at the AV Room of Dr. Kalmadi Shamarao Junior College. The programme brought together students, parents, facilitators, management representatives and distinguished guests to celebrate the journey of the outgoing batch and warmly welcome the newly identified gifted students into the programme.
The occasion marked a meaningful blend of celebration, reflection, inspiration and new beginnings, reaffirming the programme’s commitment to the holistic development of gifted learners.
Inaugural Ceremony
The programme commenced with a warm welcome address by Ms. Devika Deshpande, followed by the ceremonial lighting of the lamp, symbolising knowledge, enlightenment and the pursuit of excellence. The dignitaries present on the dais were introduced and felicitated.
Reflections from the Outgoing Batch
A special segment of the programme featured a reflection by Devika Sonsale, representing the outgoing batch. Sharing her experience of GNP, she spoke about the meaningful connections she formed with her peers and mentors and the support she received throughout her journey. Her reflections highlighted how the programme has contributed not only to academic enrichment but also to personal growth, confidence, self-awareness, resilience and a sense of belonging.
The outgoing students were subsequently felicitated with certificates acknowledging their participation and contribution to the programme. This was followed by a thoughtfully compiled video presentation that captured the journey, experiences, activities and cherished memories of the batch, offering everyone a glimpse into their year-long association with GNP.
Orientation for the New Batch
The orientation segment introduced the newly identified gifted students and their parents to the vision, purpose, structure, objectives and planned initiatives of the programme.
Mrs. Shobha Channal, Principal, KSJC, addressed the gathering and provided an overview of the programme, encouraging students to actively participate in the opportunities and experiences offered through GNP.
Dr. Jayeeta Banerjee introduced the STEM initiatives planned for the students, bringing an enhanced focus on exploration, experimentation, inquiry, innovation and problem-solving. With the inclusion of this expanded STEM dimension, the programme will henceforth be known as the Gifted and Talented Nurturing Programme (GTNP).
Address by the Management
Mrs. Malati Kalmadi, Secretary, Kannada Sangha, representing the management, expressed her appreciation for the continued development and success of the programme.
Addressing the new batch, she encouraged students to think independently, embrace opportunities, develop confidence and cultivate essential life skills alongside academic abilities. She also emphasised the important role of parents in encouraging and supporting their children’s participation in the programme.
Address by the Guest of Honour
The Guest of Honour, Dr. Sanjay Lakkade, Innovation Evangelist, Incubation Expert and Director, Sawan Vasundhara Enterprises Pvt. Ltd., brought an inspiring perspective on innovation, creativity and problem-solving.
Drawing on his extensive professional experience in teaching, research, industry and incubation, he encouraged students to participate actively in innovative activities and develop the confidence to experiment, create and think beyond conventional approaches.
He introduced students to initiatives and concepts such as Jagruti Yatra, Quality Circles, the Global Innovation Index, 24×7 laboratory access and the vision of Swavalambi Bharat, encouraging them to view problems as opportunities for innovation.
He concluded by emphasising the Four Ps – Passion, Patience, Perseverance and a Problem-Solving Attitude, encouraging students to nurture these qualities in their journey towards meaningful achievement.
Address by the Chief Guest
The Chief Guest, Dr. Swati Daithankar, renowned Bharatanatyam exponent and Director of Performing Arts at Dr. D. Y. Patil University, brought a unique perspective by connecting art, culture, symbolism and life learning.
Through the symbolism of Lord Shiva as Nataraja, she illustrated several profound lessons for life. The half-moon symbolised stability, while the Ganga flowing through represented the continuous flow of life. The Damaru in the upper right hand signified continuous effort and perseverance, while the flame of Agni in the upper left hand represented power and transformation.
The Abhaya Mudra of the lower right hand conveyed fearlessness and love, while the Gaja Hasta Mudra of the lower left hand symbolised liberation and providing refuge to the soul. The right foot placed upon Apasmara represented overcoming the Shadripu—काम, क्रोध, मद, मोह, लोभ and मत्सर— the inner obstacles that can hinder growth. The raised left foot symbolised aspiration and the ability to rise towards one’s goals.
Through this powerful interpretation of Nataraja, Dr. Daithankar encouraged students to recognise that true growth involves balance, discipline, courage, continuous effort, inner strength and the ability to overcome one’s own limitations.
Conclusion
Mr. Pratik Kela, who had been associated with the students during the Residential Camp, was also invited to the occasion. His presence was warmly received, and the students were delighted to see him and reconnect with him during the programme.
The programme concluded on an inspiring note, leaving the outgoing batch with a sense of accomplishment and the new batch with enthusiasm, purpose and anticipation for the journey ahead. The function reaffirmed the vision of GTNP as a space that seeks to nurture not only the intellectual potential of gifted learners but also their creativity, character, emotional growth, confidence and capacity to contribute meaningfully to society.
