Bhubaneswar: The 16th edition of UNWIND 2024, SAI International Education Group’s much-anticipated annual event, brought together around 30,000 attendees on Sunday.
The student-driven extravaganza, held annually at SAI International, was themed ‘The Voyage of Hope’.
Curated by Class XI students from Commerce and Humanities streams, the event blended culture, creativity, innovation and leadership.
Krushna Chandra Mahapatra, Odisha’s minister for Housing & Urban Development, was the chief guest and declared the fest open.
“It is truly inspiring to witness how UNWIND 2024 fosters critical thinking, innovation, and entrepreneurship in students as envisioned by the founder, Dr Bijaya Kumar Sahoo. It has only gotten bigger and grander since its very inception. This event equips the next generation with the skills they need to lead and succeed in the 21st century, the minister said.
Over 100 food stalls featuring global cuisines, and more than 100 thrilling game stalls were set up.
Cultural performances, a horror house and a vibrant theme park, inspired by this year’s mascot ‘Jack Sparrow’, added to the excitement.
The unique blend of activities ensured there was something for everyone.
Women’s Self-Help Groups (WSHGs), under the aegis of Odisha government’s ‘Mission Shakti’, put up a lounge at UNWIND 2024.
Among other lounges at UNWIND 2024 were those dedicated to the 100 Library Project, Cambridge- IGCSE & IBCP, and that of SAI International Residential School. The Dr Bijaya Kumar Sahoo-100 Library Project, a CSR initiative supported by UNWIND sponsorships, aims to establish fully functional libraries and provide teacher training for government and private school students in and around the twin cities.
As part of the 100 Library Project, UNWIND 2024 arranged a memorable day out for kids of Adruta Children’s Home, an organization dedicated to the care and education of children in need. The UNWIND team donated books to these children.
The Holistic Parenting award was presented to the parents of Sashwat Panigrahi, state topper in the Class XII CBSE Board exams.
The Euphony band mesmerised the audience with soulful melodies and rhythmic energy.
The programme concluded with a poignant tribute to Dr Sahoo through a video ‘Down the Memory Lane (Reminiscences),’ which celebrated his vision and contributions to the educational landscape.
“Witnessing our Commerce and Humanities SAIoneers bring together a truly extraordinary celebration like UNWIND 2024 is deeply fulfilling. The legacy of our Founder-Chairman, Dr Bijaya Kumar Sahoo, continues to guide us toward nurturing critical thinkers and innovative entrepreneurs who will shape the future of India and the world,” said Dr Silpi Sahoo, chairperson of SAI International Education Group.
