Celebrating Excellence in Education: Highlights from the 13th National Conference on Indian K-12 Leadership & India School Merit Awards 2025

The 13th National Conference on Indian K-12 Leadership and the India School Merit Awards 2025, presented by EducationToday and powered by UniPro, took place on 5th December at The Taj, Yeshwantpur. Revered as one of the most anticipated education events of the year, the conference brought together the nation’s most influential school leaders, academicians, edu-entrepreneurs, and innovators who continue to shape the future of Indian K–12 education.

With the support of sponsors such as UniPro, LiveLife Education Pvt. Ltd., AddressHealth Solutions India Pvt. Ltd., Academica International Studies, Entab, Arko Global, CENTA, OpenDoor, Alumnatis Club, EDHR Recruitments, My School Admission, and Education News Network, the event set a compelling tone for progressive thinking and collaborative growth.

The conference served as a platform for schools and education pioneers to engage in deep dialogue, celebrate achievements, and explore emerging trends that can accelerate India’s transformation into a global education powerhouse.

A Distinguished Opening Ceremony

The event commenced with a prestigious inaugural session attended by notable leaders who have made transformative contributions to the education space.
The ceremony was graced by:

• Mr. Anil Sharma, Managing Director, EducationToday
• Ms. Vibha Raj, CEO, EducationToday
• Dr. Anand Lakshman, Founder & CEO, AddressHealth Solutions India Pvt. Ltd.
• Dr. Kannan Gireesh, Founder & CEO, LiveLife Education Pvt. Ltd.
• Dr. Revathi Srinivasan, Principal, Smt. Sulochanadevi Singhania School

Their collective presence underscored the conference’s objective of fostering practical, student-centric, and healthcare-aware educational environments. Each leader emphasized the importance of progressive schooling models, collaboration, and a renewed focus on student well-being and innovative teaching practices.

Insightful Panel Discussions Shaping the Future of K–12 Education

The conference showcased two high-impact panel discussions that focused on critical and contemporary issues shaping modern schooling in India. The conversations were guided by industry experts who shared practical insights, lived experiences, and visionary approaches.

Holistic Learning & Well-being: Fostering Critical Thinking, Problem-Solving, and Emotional Resilience

This panel emphasized the growing need for schools to go beyond academic achievement and focus on building well-rounded individuals. With rising stress levels and increasing student expectations, leaders highlighted the importance of emotional intelligence, mindfulness practices, and integrated learning frameworks.

Key takeaways included:

• The significance of merging cognitive skills with emotional support systems
• The role of educators in promoting inquiry-based learning
• The future relevance of problem-solving abilities in a rapidly evolving job landscape
• The need for schools to create psychologically safe environments

The panel’s discussions reinforced that future-ready students require both intellectual depth and emotional endurance to navigate the complexities of global challenges.

Building Global Citizens: Balancing International Exposure with Rooted Cultural Values

The second panel delved into the challenge of nurturing globally aware students while preserving India’s cultural and ethical foundations. Experts explored how international curricula, exchange programs, and global pedagogies can coexist with ingrained value systems and community-driven learning.

The session underscored:

• The importance of cultural grounding in shaping responsible young adults
• The need for schools to create immersive global learning experiences
• The balance between global competence and national identity
• The future role of technology in bridging global knowledge and local relevance

The discussion successfully addressed how Indian K–12 education can uphold its cultural strength while embracing world-class learning standards.

A Powerful Keynote Address by Dr. Cdr. Kartikay Saini

One of the most anticipated highlights of the event was the keynote address by Dr. Cdr. Kartikay Saini, Founder of Scottish High International School. Known for his visionary leadership and commitment to inclusive education, Dr. Saini delivered an inspiring address that resonated deeply with educators.

He spoke passionately about the evolving expectations from schools, the need for adaptive leadership, and the importance of creating ecosystems that empower both teachers and students. In recognition of his contributions, he was honoured with the prestigious Education Maestro of the Year 2025 award.

Celebrating India’s Best Schools: Highlights from the Merit Awards

The India School Merit Awards 2025 recognized exceptional institutions that demonstrated excellence across parameters such as academic rigour, innovation, infrastructure, student support, leadership, and holistic development. The awards ceremony celebrated a diverse range of educational achievements across the country.

Top National Rankings

• SSVM World School, Coimbatore
  Awarded No. 1 CBSE School in India, the institution was honoured for its robust academic environment, innovative pedagogies, and commitment to holistic student development.
   
• Dhirubhai Ambani International School and Scottish High International School
  Both secured distinctions as the Top 1 International Schools in India, recognised for their world-class teaching methodologies, global exposure programs, and excellence in international curricula.
   
• In the State Board category,
  Little Flower Matric Higher Secondary School, Chennai, clinched the Top 1 position, reflecting its academic consistency and strong value-driven education model.

Recognitions Across Diverse Categories

The awards celebrated excellence across a wide spectrum of categories, including:

• Top Day-cum-Boarding Schools
• Top Residential Schools
• Leading Preschools
• Dynamic Principals, shaping institutional excellence
• Influential Leaders, driving policy and innovation
• Emerging Schools
• Tech-enabled and future-ready schools
• Institutions pioneering student wellness and inclusion

This extensive recognition ensured that schools of varying scales, visions, and pedagogical approaches received rightful appreciation.

A Grand Confluence of Visionaries Driving Educational Progress

The 13th National Conference and Merit Awards 2025 stood out as a powerful confluence of thought leaders who are committed to elevating the Indian K–12 education landscape. The event not only celebrated the outstanding achievements of institutions and educators but also provided a collaborative space for meaningful dialogue and future planning.

By addressing emerging challenges, promoting innovative frameworks, and honouring excellence, the conference reinforced India’s commitment to nurturing globally competent, emotionally resilient, and ethically grounded learners.

The event concluded with renewed enthusiasm and shared purpose—signalling that the future of Indian education is in capable and visionary hands.