SAI Gifted Programme: Innovative Lessons For Students Of Classes VIII To XI From US University Teams

Bhubaneswar: Class VIII to XI students of SAI International School and SAI International Residential School took part in SAI Gifted Programme, designed to deliver exceptional educational experiences and equipping students with 21st century skills, particularly in Confidence Building, Leadership, Design Thinking and Product Designing.

The programme features instructional teams and faculties from American universities like Alma College and Andrews University in Michigan.

The first session of SAI Gifted Programme — conducted in collaboration with Michigan College Association — kicked off on August 5 with a Design Thinking workshop led by Prof. Stephen Schock and Gretchen Schock from Detroit University.

Over the next three days, students progressed from understanding their partner’s needs, brainstorming solutions and prototyping, to receiving feedback, learning orthographic, and redesigning objects based on personal needs.

They finally combined their designs with random images, presented their ideas and engaged in a Question & Answer session with professors, culminating in an enriching experience that encouraged creativity, empathy and innovation for the holistic development of students.

CBSE, IBCP and Cambridge students of Classes IX to XI participated in the Design Thinking workshop, while class VIII students engaged in a Confidence Building Workshop with Jacob Keeley and Nayonika Singhaal from Alma College.

It focused on developing self-assurance and communication skills, providing students with tools to thrive academically and personally.

“The SAI Gifted Programme is a specialised initiative designed to nurture our students. It provides advanced educational opportunities, including workshops, seminars, and mentorship from global experts. We aim to cultivate intellectual curiosity, innovative thinking, and leadership skills, ensuring that our students receive the support they need to excel,” said SAI International Chairperson Dr Silpi Sahoo.