UTTARAKHAND, INDIA — In a powerful tribute to the individuals shaping young minds, the Ray Foundation in partnership with Voice Asia News, hosted the Early Excellence Awards at Hotel Saurabh Haldwani, celebrating the dedication of early childhood educators under the resonant theme “A Salute to the Nurturers of Early Dreams.”
The event recognized educators and school leaders from across India and Nepal whose work forms the foundation of lifelong learning. Over 30 school directors participated, making it a vibrant platform for cross-border exchange and shared commitment to progressive early education.
The awards ceremony transcended recognition; it served as a collective affirmation of the importance of nurturing curiosity, creativity, and emotional development during a child’s most formative years.
The gathering featured an esteemed panel of speakers who brought both national and international perspectives to the celebration. Dr. Deepa Vinay, Registrar of G.B. Pant University and Chief Guest, spoke on the transformative impact of early education in shaping communities. Dr. Sumit Purohit, Guest of Honour and Senior Scientist at the Uttarakhand Council for Biotechnology, emphasized the integration of scientific inquiry in early learning environments. Ms. Ranjana Shahi, Founder Principal of Delhi Public School, Haldwani, also graced the event with her insights into quality-driven education.
International voices added depth to the discussion. Dr. Laxman Basnet, CEO of SARC Education Foundation, Nepal, emphasized regional collaboration as a driver for innovation, while Tej Bahadur Nepal, CEO of Bal Bikas NCMAS Pvt. Ltd., advocated for a balanced approach to early childhood development — nurturing intellect and emotion alike.
Other dignitaries included Simmy Storyteller, Director of Kutumb, Ramashish Prajapati, Assistant Professor at Amrapali University and Anmol Gemner, Director of Raise Abacus Academy, Mumbai, whose presence underscored the expanding commitment to quality education nationwide.
A special award was presented to Pawan Gayal, Managing Director of Hotel Saurabh, for his outstanding contribution to hospitality, acknowledged as key in supporting national and international educational gatherings.
Kaushal Kumar, Chairman of the Ray Foundation, captured the spirit of the event, stating: “This celebration is a tribute to those who quietly shape tomorrow’s leaders. Their work plants the seeds of imagination and excellence in every young child.”
Concluding with a renewed call to action, the event left participants inspired to elevate the early education landscape. As stories of innovation and collaboration echoed through the hall, the message was clear: the path to a brighter future begins with those who teach its first steps.