SAI Career Talk

“Success is simple. Do what’s right, the right way, at the right time.”
– Arnold H. Glasgow

SAI International, hosted a career talk with Ms. Rajashree Sahoo, Founder, Achivia on Friday 16 July 2021. She briefed on corporate internships and special impact projects where students can have great experiences to build their profile which can be appealing and impressive to those dream universities they are applying to. Many students have been part of world renowned universities such as Pennsylvania, California and Toronto etc. Ms. Sahoo addressed SAIoneers of Class X, XI and XII students from SAI International School and SAI International Residential School with students joining her in the discussion in the virtual space.

She guided the students on how to transform their Global career profiles for choosing their dream university. She also briefed on various internship programs available and necessary that would match the students’ profile 

She also spoke about if students were planning to study abroad, what universities exactly expected from international students. Flexible thinking enables the use of critical thinking and problem-solving to increase future effectiveness in identifying the competencies of the students, likewise applying to Universities that would shape the career in the best possible manner.

Students’ ability to persist in the face of challenges, like using school’s support in a planned manner in developing their individual profiles. Archivia, enhances their ability to analyze and evaluate while planning, like referring to estimate the time needed to complete an upcoming admission process.

Teachers also play a critical role in helping students understand these components of self-management and practice building their executive functioning skills. At each stage mentioned below, processing with you or a peer will prompt students to consider how to better at student profile management

High school students can overlook in-depth processing while they can be encouraged as students to identify effective planning and help them brainstorm alternative strategies.

When students list and analyze their responsibilities, they provide themselves with a concrete point of reference.  That way, they tend to limit impulsive and eliminate ineffective decision-making at the time of application.

Discussion with teachers and counsellors or peers helps students to build self-awareness with an internal understanding of what might positively influence future admissions into degrees of their choice into foreign Universities.

SAI International provides a pathway for identifying and prioritizing the application procedures. Prioritizing requires detailed planning at the level of students, parents and teachers. Thus, detecting the difference between important, goal-oriented tasks, like outlining information for the admission  process.In house career counselling support helps eligible SAIoneers to identify scholarships too while they study abroad.

Dr. Shilpi Sahoo, was happy that the session brought forth important perspectives for the benefit of students and said “SAIoneers have brought great laurels by securing admission in world renowned Universities abroad and have gone ahead in building great careers for themselves. I am looking forward for prioritizing action steps in increases a student’s chance of securing good admissions in Universities that would eventually shape their careers very well.   At SAI International, we have been dynamic and straightforward in our approach towards each and every student studying with us.  Explaining expectations on how to invest mental energy, time, and attention to develop strong student competencies”.

SAIoneers Bring Laurels in Chess Championship

“Every chess master was once a beginner.” – Irving Chernev

SAI International School students participated in the 34th Edition of the Bhubaneswar School  Chess Championship 2021. SAIoneer Amrutanshu Mohanty of Class XI, of SAI International school received the Runners-up title.  The event was conducted online, by the prestigious body of Bhubaneswar Chess Association.

Likewise, SAIoneer Sahana Lenka of Class VIII has also emerged as very promising as the Best Female Player in the senior girl’s category.

In the same event SAIoneer Ishaani Dash of Class IV in the under 9 years’ category has made the school proud by making her presence felt in the championship by bagging the Best Female Player title. Chess has been implemented as an effective tool for teaching students higher order thinking skills, strategic planning, and decision making in nearly 30 nations around the world. Chess is all about thinking strategically and foreseeing consequences, weighing options and making strategic decisions which makes it a perfect teaching and learning tool.

Chess being a pre dominatingly strategic gaming is classified as having a lack of random elements or chance and seems to require higher decision-making skills. Students benefit from critical thinking, memory retention, group problem solving, and social interaction that chess requires, enabling them to transfer the intellectual, social, and emotional skills they practice into their daily lives.

A game of chess games forces players to think for themselves in a fun way which builds their confidence and critical thinking abilities.

SAI International Group, Chairperson, Dr. Silpi Sahoo, on the happy occasion, stated” I am congratulating the students on their individual achievements and for having brought such laurels to our institution. The students are going carve a niche for themselves in the National and International Championships and immensely contribute to the future of the game.”

SAI International School Celebrated Van Mahotsav

The Earth is what we all have in common.” – Wendell Berry

SAI International to celebrate a week-long Tree Festival, popularly known as ‘Van Mahotsav’ from July1 to 7, 2021 at SAI International School and SAI International Residential School. The virtual Celebration was inaugurated on July 1, 2021 by the Chief Guest Shri Sisir Kumar Ratho, Principal Chief Conservator of Forests and Head of Forest Force (PCCF & HoFF) in Government of Odisha. Shri Ratho addressed the students and the teachers of SAI International and shared his valuable thoughts at the auspicious occasion.

A very informative video on the ‘Forest Man of India’, Jadav Molai Payeng was also telecasted during the inauguration ceremony. His words of wisdom will make a long lasting impression on one and all and will motivate the SAIoneers to make the planet greener and cleaner.

While addressing the students Shri Ratho said that “It’s delighting to see the happy faces of children while planting trees, they enjoy this task of plantation and should be encouraged so as to build a better world. One should learn the skills of life from trees and connect with the nature, as sowing a sapling today will be the oxygen cylinders of tomorrow and make this earth a better and a greener planet to live in happily. Be compassionate to nature and it will surely reward you.” He also stated that Odisha has just right number of forest cover as per the National Forest Policy.

The week-long event will witness a plantation drive at both SAI International School and SAI International Residential School by the fraternity of the SAI International Education Group.

SAIoneer Saniya Mazumdar of SAI International Residential School said that, “every year we celebrate Van Mahotsav in a grand way by planning trees in our campus, since the last year when the pandemic began, we students haven’t been able to do plantation in the school premises, but do it at our homes as its engrained in us by the school to love nature and plant as many trees as possible”.

Speaking on the occasion Co-founder SAI International Education Group, Dr Silpi Sahoo said,” SAI International believes in instilling a feeling of belongingness and empathy toward the mother earth and I would appeal to all my SAIoneers to go green by planting saplings and going paperless to help save the world from global warming and other elements which are destroying the weather, nature and world”.

‘Booktopia’ a Round Square Inspired Reading Fest @ SAI International

“Books are a uniquely portable magic.” ― Stephen King

SAI International will be held a Round Square inspired event ‘Booktopia’ a global reading fest to encourage the essence of reading on Saturday, June 26, 2021. The Global event had participants of around 500 students from seven countries; Japan, South Korea, South Africa, Rwanda, Uganda Pakistan and India.  The event was aimed at inspiring the young generation to read books and share their ideas and experiences with others.  The keynote speaker for the evening was a Michigan based Writer, Composer, Singer, Actor, Musician & a “teen prodigy” Ms. Elise Marra.

Ms. Elise Marra a 17 year old Writer, Composer, Singer, Actor, Musician & a “teen prodigy” from Michigan, encouraged our young readers and writers to pursue their dreams.

Participants had an opportunity to listen to the insights of prominent keynote speaker, get involved in interactive sessions and meet avid readers from around the world. 

While interacting with the students Ms. Elise Marra, emphasized upon developing a reading habit for one’s personal growth. Ms. Marra was highly impressed by the students of SAI International and thanked to school for organizing such an insightful event for the cause of the students.

Booktopia incorporated many of the Round Square Discoveries including communications skills, inquisitiveness, inventiveness, self awareness, appreciation for diversity, ability to solve problems, sense or responsibility, compassion, courage and teamwork.  Students will gain basic life skills and will provide a chance to improve skills such as organizational, collaboration, problem-solving, critical and creative thinking, task management skills along with intellectual skills, cognitive strategy and verbal and written information. Furthermore, individuals will reinforce their grammar, vocabulary, pronunciation, reading and writing, basically all linguistic skills.

Students were divided into 10 barraza sessions themed on the book genres i.e. fiction, classic adult fiction, magical, mystery and so on. The names of the barraza reflected the genre of the group aiming at discussing, debating and writing about their favorite book of that particular genre. There was also a fancy dress where the children were dressed as their favourite character.

Yoga: A Science of well-being

“All this bringing of the mind into a higher state of vibration is included in one word in Yoga” – Swami Vivekananda 

International Yoga Day was observed in SAI Angan and SAI International School virtually on Tuesday June 21, 2015.

Yoga is regarded as one of the most effective methods of establishing a connection between the body minds by Indian sages since time immemorial. It is a type of exercise that is performed through diet, breathing and physical posture for the relaxation of body and mind. Yoga is an integral part of the calendar of activities at the School throughout out the year, as part of our efforts to inculcate in students the appreciation of and respect for India’s rich heritage and diversity, and also to reinforce in them national pride and respect. This ancient form of holistic healing got a formal recognition by the United Nations General Assembly on December 11, 2014.

Yoga is a trend that has been flourishing from years, rather it is a prime trend setter in maintaining both physical and mental well being. Each yogic activity is a key to improve flexibility, strength, balance and attaining harmony. It is the perfect getaway to search for inner peace, gives you an essence of leading a meaningful life. The present resurgence of the COVID-19 pandemic has added stress and anxiety among people everywhere. The disease and isolation is not only affecting a patient`s physical health but also taking a toll on the psychological or emotional health and even that of family members.

Students across grades participated in the International Yoga day as the teachers began the session after the morning assembly. Students across grades had done Yoga Asanas online. It was delight to see the Primary students participating too. Senior students had prepared and presented power point presentations within their class, discussing the benefits of incorporating Yoga in everyday life. Few had made posters and shared their speeches with their class mates. During the virtual event, few fitness and well being conscious parents too had joined in the live sessions.

Against this backdrop, the emphasis on pursuing Yoga has been higher for physical and psychological well-being. Highly recommended for all, especially students across all age groups its immense benefits are known to bring peace and emotional balance in individuals if practiced regularly. Also known for its far-reaching benefits to alleviate stress, apart from relaxing a tired mind and body and reinvigorate the thought towards being positive it is believed to help in enhancing memory. Increasing flexibility, strength, balance and endurance are just a few of the innumerable benefits of yoga. SAI International has adopted it in its co curricular process since its inception.

Speaking on the occasion, Chairperson Dr. Silpi Sahoo said, “I am extremely thankful to one and all for the enthusiastic participation by the students and making this virtual event a grand success. I truly believe that Yoga will positively impact the minds of our students, strengthen their health, and minds. Yoga is really effective in teaching us how to be much more relaxed and let go of unwanted thoughts and stress”.

SAI International School Re-opening

“To begin, begin” – William Wordsworth

SAI International School resumed classes for students of Classes X and XII on Friday,January 8, 2021.After a gap of nine months as schools have reopened in the state, in compliance with State Government SOPs. The students were naturally brimming with excitement to be able to see their friends and teachers after a very long gap of many months. The vibrant energy and positivity was clearly visible on the faces of each and every student, teachers and staff .The long await was finally over, post-pandemic schools received back the actual treasures our school our SAIoneers.

The students were very impressed to be welcomed back to school with such neat absolute protocol adherence, in the post-pandemic situation. Students really appreciated the manner in which the arrangements had been done by the  school keeping the safety and security concern in mind. To bring in sweetness in beginning back again, students were handed chocolates and under complete vigilance guided to their respective classrooms. The strict instruction of keeping distance from other students and admission of not more than 20 students in a classroom was ensured by school authorities.

 Digital thermometer readings to measure the body temperature, for all students, teachers and staff, were taken at the entrance of the school, mandatory as per govt. guidelines. The re-opening was approached in a staggered manner, with multiple checkpoints to take precautionary measures, as required. Strict protocols were followed for students from wearing masks, washing hands at frequent intervals to mandatory social distancing, almost giving a formal colour to their first day in school, as we reopened  today. The transport service too, resumed, buses began to ply students as per the government guidelines. At the time of boarding and exiting the buses, students were put through a rountine temperature check and hand sanitization. The students could resume classes in the school campus only after submitting the consent letters from the parents. The classrooms, corridors and toilets were sanitized every two hours and classes were conducted for limited hours as necessary, as per the Govt guidelines.

Shree Santosh Naik, Block Education Officer, was present at the time of re-opening of the school. He was very happy to note all government advised protocols had been followed strictly by the school authorities, with  proper social distancing being maintained amongst students , wearing masks had been adhered to, sanitizer units had been set up to assist all. He was elated to see students joining back classes so enthusiastically while being welcomed back so warmly by their teachers and the whole atmosphere was very encouraging to one and all.

We look forward for conducting unhindered classes to continue in the best interest of our students, as going forward we hope education doesn’t take a hit, especially with the board exams round the corner, in a post-pandemic scenario. With the Vaccine coming in and all the positivity going around we wish the school opens up completely for all its Students and the school misses each of its SAIoneers around.

Dr.Bijaya Kumar Sahoo, Founder and Mentor of SAI International was elated to welcome the SAIoneers of classes X and XII. He said that, “The school is finally open and we are ready to overcome all hurdles and function the way we did pre-pandemic. We are hopeful that we will be able to enlighten each mind with the Power of Education”.

VIRTUAL ALUMNI MEET 2020

SAI International School and SAI International Residential School had an overwhelming response from our Ex-SAIoneers to our 2020 Alumni Virtual Reunion, which was held on December 26, 2020. The Reunion was a highly successful event with a  wonderful welcome address by Sr.  Principal, Shri Nilakantha Panigrahi, who was ecstatic to welcome the participants to the virtual meet.

SAI International Education Group is the illuminatinating sun that provides its alumni with the light that radiates from within, to serve humanity. SAI International School and SAI International Residential School, has grown into one of the finest educational schools in India. SAI strives to maintain links and connections with and amongst its ‘global family.’ The alumni were invited to explore the newly launched Alumni Portal to maintain their ties with their alma matter. We hope to keep our ties connected with information about current developments at SAI and to facilitate such alumni reunions and networking going forward. Finding out on all the good that all his SAIoneers are doing , left him very happy, and he went on to encourage them by saying “The greatest glory of happiness comes from small joys, and one must be value centric in approach and contribute towards betterment of the under privileged in society”

Dr. Bijaya Kumar Sahoo, Founder of SAI International Educational Group was extremely overjoyed to meet so many our  Ex-SAIoneers after a very long time. He had a truly deep personal connect recollecting many heartfelt instances from memory lane by quoting names with incidents. Many accepted that Dr. Sahoo’s personal touch of guidance has left an everlasting imprint in their hearts and minds. It was amazing to hear the testimonies of the Alumni, reminiscing the nostalgic moments spent on campus as students, the institution was truly home away from home. The interaction garnered around updates on how their  lives have shaped up and  how much SAI has contributed to help shape their personalities, dreams and lives. Dr. Sahoo was moved to tears, couple of times on hearing from many of the young turks about their love for the institution first hand. It was nothing short of a true homecoming.

The event concluded on a very high note with a vote of thanks from our Headmaster Shree Amitabh Aghnihotri.

Founder, SAI International Education Group, Dr. Bijaya Kumar Sahoo Bestowed with QCI Quality Champion Award 2020

“This award is an affirmation of the manifestation of my endeavors to give the best to society and provide quality education to each child. It has furthered my mission to bring about a prolific transformation in the education sector”.Dr. Bijaya Kumar Sahoo

SAI International Education Group is privileged to announce that Dr. Bijaya Kumar Sahoo, Founder, SAI International Education Group has been bestowed with the most coveted 2nd QCI Quality Champion Award 2020 for his perfection of processes and dedication to quality education in an online ceremony held on Thursday, December 17, 2020.  The award was conferred by Shri Sunil Mathur, Chairman, NBQP and MD & CEO, Siemens, India for Dr. Sahoo’s relentless efforts to facilitate Bhubaneswar in becoming the K-12 education hub in Eastern India and his contribution towards innovation, digital technology and scientific temperament. The award was endowed for Dr Sahoo being instrumental in shaping the society by his philanthropic benevolence towards the under privileged Schools and under privileged members of society. He has been recognised both nationally and internationally with numerous awards and accolades for steering leadership and entrepreneurial values and exemplary services to society.

Dignitaries present in the virtual award ceremony were Shri Hari Krishna Taneja, Trustee of DL Shah, Shri S.M Pathania, Trustee of DL Shah Trust, Prof R.K. Kotnala, Chairman NABL and Raja Ramanna Fellow, Dept. Atomic Energy, Shri C.K Biswas, CEO NBQP and Dr R.P. Singh, Secretary General –QCI.

After receiving the coveted award, Dr. Bijaya Kumar Sahoo very humbly thanked 2nd QCI Quality Champion Award 2020 and said, “This award is an affirmation of the manifestation of my endeavors to give the best to society and provide quality education to each child. It has furthered my mission to bring about a prolific transformation in the education sector”.

QCI Quality Champion Award aims to honor outstanding individuals who have demonstrated significant contribution in the field of quality in terms of outstanding promotional activities, innovation in approach, effective application of quality tools etc. in any sector.

SAI International Observes International Day of Persons with Disability

“The only disability in life is a bad attitude.”- Scott Hamilton

The International Day of persons with disabilities was observed in SAI International School with great spirit and reverence.

 “Lets embrace differences & celebrate diversity” according to Dr Shruti Mohapatra, Founder and Chief Executive Officer, Swabhiman. The leading crusader for disability rights, Dr. Sruti Mohapatra’s relentless struggle and never-say-die-attitude have been a source of huge inspiration for all those who are facing discrimination delivered an enlightening and encouraged  equity and equality to be maintained with all.

The day was observed virtually in which almost 450 participants from SAI International School ,SAI International Residential school and 18 schools from the Round Square schools from across the world like Japan, India,Srilanka,Bangla Desh,UAE and Uganda who participated with equal enthusiasm.

The Day was meticulously planned by the students of Going Global club, Interact club and the students of SIRS and also hosted entirely by the student organizers. The Chief Guest of the event was Dr Shruti Mohapatra, Inclusive expert and the founder of Swabhiman and the key note speaker was Dr Bijaya Kumar Sahoo, founder and mentor of SAI International Education group.

A wonderful quiz session was conducted by Asif Momin, consultant from Swabhiman in which students from SAI and Round square schools participated with great interest. The last part of the event was packed with activities like drawing without using hands, learning sign languages etc and also a christmas celebration with the appearance of Santa Claus, to conclude the event with a happy note.

Dr Shruti Mohapatra presented a very informative yet touching presentation which touched every heart. She spoke about the importance of people with disabilities across the world and shared how they are at par with any normal person. She showed some short videos to prove that these special people can be far better than any person without any impairment.

We are often arrested by our individual attitudinal disability, which dissuades us from acknowledging the needs of another. The truth is we must be sensitized to welcome persons with disabilities as a differentently person and across schools, institutes, government forums, offices It is not sympathy, rather empathy with mindfulness with right attitudinal change, empathy can be created. She speaks passionately as she describes how inclusive education should be a prime focus for schools.

The Key note Speaker Dr Bijaya Kumar Sahoo said that disabilities could be in body or mind. Through a video he emphasized that many people have disabilities in their minds, attitudes which is very harmful to the nation and humanity in specific. Dr Sahoo asked the students if we should sympathise on the persons having impairments or create opportunities for them. He expressed his satisfaction on the attitudes of the Saioneers who are very positive towards the children who are less privileged or disabled. He also said that It is not celebrating disabilities but understanding it. Everyone should do something which will make you proud by giving opportunities and including people with impairments as your equal .Create awareness and even force everyone including the media and the Government to extend opportunities to these special people.

The question and answer session with Dr Shruti Mohapatra was also interesting with very relevant and pertinent questions from the student participants  to which Dr Mohapatra answered with ease and her happy smiles.

“Disability of mind is worse than disability of body.”, according to Dr. Bijaya Kumar Sahoo, Founder and Mentor, SAI International Education Group. He added, let us not advocate conscious disability, force and ensure government, media to create opportunities for persons with disabilities. 

Heartspeak Guidance by Krishnasis

Krishnasis Dash delivered an alumni talk with SAIoneers on Dec 19, 2020 He states, it is important to eliminate of uncertainties of mind and remain goal oriented. The job of a doctor would be so demanding, hence it is better to identify a zone to decompress  and bounce back into action again. Krishnasis’s own brush with pain in his own growing up years, made him realize he would like to be a doctor when he grows up. Krishnasis states it is the student’s choice to join or not join coaching classes yet he lays strong emphasis on appearing for competitive exams. He earnestly answered and addressed all the questions put forth to him. . He shared his own insights in the most simplistic and engaging manner to truly benefit the students. He mentioned SAI International school gave him a highly competitive environment and group studies helped him immensely during his preparations.

Being a medical student it will involve working harder than you’ve ever worked in your life, chances are as per Krishnasis, it’ll also involve having more fun than you’ve ever had before. There are plenty of off-putting myths about being a medical student, but in reality it’s enjoyable, interesting and highly rewarding, especially in light of what you’re working towards.

Studying medicine comes with a certain expectation to work harder on average than most other students. There are generally more contact hours than other subjects with practicals and lectures taking up a great deal of time. Of course it’s not just the contact hours when you are working: lecture notes need to be read over, essays have to be written, practicals should be prepared for and keeping on top of it all can be a challenge. 

Dr. Bijaya Kumar Sahoo, Founder SAI International Group recollected on the diligent hard work put in by Krishnasis back then that led him to realize his dream of being a doctor.

SAI International School highly appreciates the career guiding  approach that  he undertook during the session by sharing extremely valuable tips on scheduling study hours, time and stress management.SAI International School wishes him all the very best for all his future endeavors.

Samvidhan Diwas Celebration at SAI International School

“Constitution is not a mere lawyers document, it is a vehicle of life, and its spirit is always the spirit of Age.” – Dr. B.R. Ambedkar

The dawn of Thursday, November 26, 2020 brought with it, it’s own share of importance as SAI International School geared up to commemorate the Constitution Day of India on a virtual forum. Various activities such as quiz, poster making, role play, presentations and group discussions were conducted over the week.

It commenced with the Pledge taking ceremony, followed by reading of Preamble in line with our Hon’ble Prime Minister’s ‘Reading out the Preamble of the Constitution’ at 11 am, on Thursday, November 26, 2020. Students participated with great enthusiasm.

On Day 2 while students from Classes VI to VIII were engrossed in preparing pamphlets, Class IX students started the day with pictorial illustrations through their posters on our 11 Fundamental Duties as enshrined in the Indian Constitution. Students of Class X discussed on the topic ‘Need to remember our Fundamental Duties as we remember our Fundamental Rights’. Students responded enthusiastically over the events as they were in a position to appreciate the inter-dependence between the Fundamental Duties and Rights enshrined in the Constitution for a law-abiding citizen of the country.

The Indian Constitution is the supreme law of our country. It is studied under Indian Polity and Governance that deals with a wide range of topics such as the development of the Constitution, Citizenship, Fundamental Rights, Directive Principles, etc. On Day 3, Classes IX & X students were able to brush their general knowledge and general awareness via an online quiz program. Students from classes VI to VIII were involved in role play activity, playing the roles of the great leaders of our country, who had a great contribution in framing our Constitution.

On Day 4, students from Classes VIII to X exchanged lesser known facts about our Constitution as a tool for information interchange which amazed everyone. Classes VI & VII students participated in drafting constitution for their own classroom.

On the 5th day, Children from Classes IX & X presented their ideas and understanding of history and facts associated with the finest nuances of Indian Flag, National Anthem and National Emblem through colourful power point presentation. It acted as a ready reckoner amongst their friends. Class VI- VIII expressed their ideas & understanding about Constitution & Fundamental Duties by means of logo.

People of India are the ultimate custodians of our Constitution. Constitution Day of India is celebrated to create awareness on the importance of Indian Constitution and promote constitution values among citizens.

Business World Top Education Brands Award 2020 for SAI International School

“Awards and ceremonies are all an applause of discipline.” – Sunday Adelaja

Business World bestowed the coveted ‘School of the Year Award’, under the K12 School category on SAI International School during an online ceremony held on Saturday, November 28, 2020. This recognition earns the School an elite place in the Business World Top Education Brands Club. Adding to its joy, SAI International Residential School received the Leading Residential Schools in India Award 2020 under the category of Residential School.

SAI International School was shortlisted for excelling in parameters like Growth in Academic Excellence, Sports, Learning Outcomes, Teachers Training, Parents and Community Perception, Community Outreach and other Awards received.

Founder and Mentor SAI International, Dr. Bijaya Kumar Sahoo graciously thanked the Jury and said, ‘the award is definitely a ray of motivation in the challenging times’. He added that ‘we are not just a School but a centre of human transformation’.

Amidst this pandemic, SAI International School continued its relentless effort to ensure quality education of its students both in scholastics and co-scholastics areas. The School as a team is painstakingly taking every step to provide a strong framework for successful learning, enabling children to align with the constantly changing world. This year it won several awards in recognition for its laudable endeavour. 

Humble Offering

“Showing gratitude is one of the simplest yet most powerful things humans can do for each other.” Randy Pausch

The Safai Sevaks of Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation (BMC) have been working relentlessly and dedicatedly inspite of the pandemic. Undeterred by the fear of infection, these frontline workers are taking every step to keep our surroundings clean.

As a token of appreciation, the Founder and Mentor of SAI International Education Group, Dr Bijaya Kumar Sahoo distributed food packets to the BMC Safai Sevaks on Thursday, November 26, 2020. Thanking the COVID Warriors, Dr. Sahoo said, ‘the work done by the Safai Sevaks is truly commendable and I humbly thank them for their selfless effort’.

Earlier on Saturday, April 25, 2020, to acknowledge and appreciate the praiseworthy work of the Safai Sevaks during COVID 19 pandemic, SAI International family was privileged to gift a towel each, along with dry food items like flattened rice, sugar, semolina, biscuits and bathing soap to more than 70 Safai Sevaks of Ward No 6. We humbly salute the services rendered by our BMC SafaivSevaks.

Career Talk @ SAI

“Study abroad is the single most effective way of changing the way we view the world” – Chantal Mitchell

‘Learning requires humility & humility is the key to success’, said Dr. Sudhansu Sarangi, IPS, Commissioner of Police, Bhubaneswar-Cuttack during the SAI Career Talk held on Thursday, November 26, 2020. He provided valuable advice on how to effectively prepare for higher education in foreign universities. Talking to the students he said ‘what choice you make today will stay with you for the next 30 to 40 years’ and so one needs to make a judicious decision on time.

He gave an overview of the advantages of pursuing undergraduate courses in renowned universities in places like UK and USA, as many of them come within 1000 ranks in the World University Rankings. He spoke about how students are prepared methodically to make them job ready while doing their undergraduate course.

Delineating the life in a foreign university, he said that apart from concentrating on academics, one should also focus on personality development, leadership ability, communication skills, creativity and develop team spirit. He urged the students to develop a love for reading and become voracious readers, accumulating as much knowledge as possible. He urged them to become self-reliant, learning to do their own work, so as to make their life easier in abroad universities.

Dr. Sarangi congratulated SAI International School for becoming the No.1 School of India. He asked the students not to think themselves just as students of the school but as real ambassadors of the school who carry its core values as they go abroad to study. Dr. Sarangi answered to numerous queries posed by the students of SAI International.

Dr. Bijaya Kumar Sahoo, Founder and Mentor, SAI International thanked Dr. Sarangi for dealing upon the practical aspects of studying in foreign universities, which is very significant in students’ life.

Your Turn Meeting with Japan and Uganda

“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed people can change the world. Indeed. It is the only thing that ever has.”Margaret Mead

Your Turn is a collaborative meeting held between students of SAI International School, Jr. & Sr. Kogakuin University, Tokyo, Japan and Gombe Online School (GES), Uganda on Wednesday, November 11, 2020. These inter-cultural exchange meetings are conducted regularly with various partner schools across the globe, to promote understanding and respect for each other’s culture and nurture students towards becoming global citizens.

This week the topic discussed was on father-daughter relationships and how they vary in different countries. As a whole teenagers tend to dislike their fathers as they step into their teens. It was interesting to see how the relationship between fathers and daughters differed from country to country. Five basic questions were asked including what do you think of your father? Do you always love your father? What are some of the disagreements you and your father have? Who is more strict, your mother or father? What different pressures and expectations do the girls have in the family unit placed on them by their fathers? 

This topic was selected to help one of the Class X participants from Japan School, who is collecting data from all over the world on this topic for her thesis paper. The first presentation was by the Japanese students. Apparently teenagers in Japan are not very close to their fathers and often find them annoying and overbearing, always asking too many questions. Fathers in Japan don’t understand this sudden shift or the apparent rift. Uganda students spoke about their culture and how their fathers held the highest position in the family and had the last word so if your father said no then the answer was NO. This sort of authoritarianism caused problems between teenage girls and their fathers. They also said that the respect they had for their father often came from fear. India had a slightly different take. They said that they do have disagreements with their fathers but they are resolved quickly and that most just wanted to make their fathers happy and proud of them. The overall consensus was that even though teenagers often do not get along with their fathers all the teenage girls agreed that they loved their fathers very much and they liked spending time with them.

It turned out to be a wonderful global conversation that overcame many stereotypes about fathers and daughters and it was interesting to hear each country’s perspective. Mahiro also shared a google survey form and asked everyone to fill it out, which the students did with great sincerity. 

SAI Career Talk – Three Myths around Liberal Arts

“Dreaming, after all, is a form of planning.” – Gloria Steinem

The SAI Career Talk was delivered by Ms. Hansa Sachdeva, Director Admissions and Financial Aid, Ahmedabad University on Wednesday, November 18, 2020, on the topic ‘Three myths around Liberal Studies’. She explained about various undergraduate courses in Humanities, Social Science, Science, Management, Commerce and Engineering as well as guided the students on how to learn through interdisciplinary academics and real-life experiences that traverse these intersections.

Liberal Education empowers individuals and prepares them to deal with complexity, diversity, and change as well as provides students with broad knowledge of the wider world. She said each degree programme provides students the opportunity to craft their own learning across disciplines and create their own academic pathway. She also highlighted on Research programmes available at the University.

SAI International School believes in bringing about a meaningful change in the lives of its students by constantly guiding them to pursue the right path. Simultaneously, the school takes care to identify and understand the area of expertise of the students as well as motivates them for self reflection to assess their own strength and weakness. This gives them the ability to weigh options before taking any decisions and also inspires the children to gain a better control over their life in order to move ahead successfully. 

SAI Alumni Talk by Alumnus Tanmay Pani

“If necessity is the mother of invention, scientifically developed production is the mother of scientific research.”Arthur Edwin Kennelly

Alumnus Tanmay Pani delivered the SAI Alumni Talk on Saturday, November 21, 2020. The talented boy from the Class of 2015 is presently pursuing PhD in Nuclear Physics at Rutgers University, USA. He has completed his BS-MS in Physics from NISER, Bhubaneswar.

Tanmay briefed the students on the significance of Scientific Research especially in Physics. He said ‘any scientific pursuit begins with a question and experiment is the truth no matter how strong the theory is’. His specialization is in Experimental Particle Physics or High Energy Nuclear Physics. His work mostly involves analyzing data from big collider experiments.

The brilliant outlined the process of undertaking a research work like asking a question, doing background research, constructing a hypothesis, testing with an experiment, if it matches with hypothesis then analyzing data and drawing conclusions. He also spoke doing research work at Brookhaven National Lab, which is home to seven Nobel Laureates and many more awardees.

Tanmay advised the young students to make friends with people of equal mindsets so as to make the journey of life more meaningful. He thanked SAI International School for helping him shape his personality and make him a confident learner. He praised the school for creating thinkers, who never shy away from asking questions. Founder and Mentor Dr. Bijaya Kumar Sahoo recalled some cherished moments with Tanmay and said that the boy has always been a deep thinker and his interest in physics was evident from his school days. He blessed Tanmay for a glorious future. 

SAI Alumni Talk with Alumnus Siddharth Chinmay

“A dream doesn’t become reality through magic; it takes sweat, determination and hard work”.Colin Powell

Learning is a lifelong process believes SAI International alumnus Siddharth Chinmayfrom the Class of 2016. He delivered SAI Alumni Talk on Saturday, November 7, 2020 to the students of class IX and above.  His highly humble and informative presentation and talk made the students understand the value of hard work, persistence, and focus on dreams. His talk enticed the students to interact with him and know more about his journey.

Siddharth is a Googler and currently working as Software Engineer at Google India and is part of the Smart Device Management Team of Google NEST. The talented boy has also interned at places like Samsung R&D, Bangalore and Phoenix Robotix, Bhubaneswar, where he applied the concept of Machine Learning.

Siddharth while addressing the students said that he had never expected to be a part of SAI but he was thankful to the institution for grooming him in the right direction and helping him in achieving his dream career.

Siddharth had secured All India Rank (AIR) 100 in JEE Advanced to bag a seat in Computer Science at IIT Kanpur. He is a recipient of NTSE Scholarship, secured AIR 35 in NEST (2016) for NISER and Centre for Excellence in Basic Sciences, Mumbai, secured 99.23 percentile in AIIMS entrance (2016) and 99.71 percentile in NEET (2016). A short profile of Siddharth is attached to help you know more about him.

SAI Alumni Talk endeavors to pave a way for interaction between our alumni and our current batch of SAIoneers, to inspire our students to dream big and achieve their dreams. It is a brilliant medium for the students to interact with seniors of the school who have paved their way to success and widen the learning horizon.

SAI Career Talk

“Don’t be pushed around by the fears in your mind. Be led by the dreams in your heart.” Roy T. Bennett

College Admission counseling is the first and most important step leading to a proper gateway to ones dream University. Admission counselors have the latest data about the criteria, acceptance rates and team expectations relating to admission. A good college admissions counselor can help you find schools that fit you, identify dream/match/safety schools, complete your financial aid, craft strong school-specific application essays, and help manage anxiety and stress.

SAI Career Talk was delivered by Sarthak Yadav, Co-Founder & President, VYBeS Education Pvt. Ltd., and Vishvesh Bhat, Co-Founder & CEO, VYBeS Education Pvt. Ltd., on Wednesday, October 21, 2020. The Resource persons guided the senior secondary students of SAI International School and SAI International Residential School on how to apply for Universities in the U.S.A, Canada and the United Kingdom. They also gave an overview on how COVID 19 had changed the application process temporarily including its effects on granting of visas.

VYBeS was started in 2019 by Vishvesh and Sarthak, both students at the University of California San Diego (UCSD), to provide online college admission counseling. It allows students to book career counseling sessions, helping them with selection of colleges, writing college essays and SOPs, prepare them for interviews and provide knowledge about the visa application process.

SAI International School had initiated the online SAI Career Talk for the development of the potential career of the students. Through the programme it introduces students to important resources and skills necessary for a successful job in the future as well as aid them in managing and adapting to the transition from High School to University seamlessly. The Career Talk guides and empowers students in making informed and responsible choices on the learning, occupations, career goals and other aspects of life.

SAI Alumni Talk by Alumna Sonali Sharma

“Motivation is what gets you started. Habit is what keeps you going.” – Jim Rohn

SAI Alumni Talk endeavors to pave a way for interaction between our alumni and our current batch of SAIoneers, to inspire them to dream big and achieve their dreams. It is a brilliant medium for you to interact with your seniors and learn from their experiences. You will know directly from them the processes to get into the fields and areas of your interest. These sessions will not only widen your knowledge horizon but also your career prospects.

Alumna Sonali Sharma from the Class of 2012 delivered the SAI Alumni Talk on Saturday, October 17, 2020. The former Head Girl of SIS had pursued her BA, LLB from National Law School of India University (NLSIU), Bengaluru and later joined Shardul Amarchand Mangaldas & Co as an Associate. The young girl has a broad and in-depth Internship experience in prestigious Law firms and under the mentorship of renowned personalities.

She provided valuable advice to the students from Classes IX to XII from SIS and SIRS on different areas of expertise in Law, on how to prepare for various Law entrance examinations and on key attributes of becoming a successful lawyer. She shared her three mantras of success like faith in self, making the right choice and seeking help without hesitation.

Thanking her Chairman Sir, ‘Dr Bijaya Kumar Sahoo, Sonali said, ‘You pushed me to my best potential’. She thanked her alma mater for inculcating the timeless values that helped her to propel ahead with confidence in life.

The all-rounder Sonali achieved State Rank 3 in Commerce stream, in Class XII Board exam and was the recipient of the Emerging Global SAIoneer Award. The humble and enterprising girl was also a sports enthusiast and a graceful Kathak dancer.