Educationist advocates 360-degree, holistic learning for children

Bengaluru: The Bengaluru edition of "Expression" — a four-day cultural festival hosted by Deccan Herald in Education (DHIE) — was inaugurated on Tuesday.

Over 500 students showcased their talents with dance performances from schools, including National Public School, Jakkur; Delhi Public School, Electronics City; Trinity English High School, Marathahalli; and Mother Dolphin English High School, CV Raman Nagar, among others.

Educationist Dr Wooday P Krishna was the chief guest for the event.

“Today, children should experience a 360-degree education that includes not only academics, but also co-curricular activities like debates and Olympiads, as well as extra-curricular activities such as tours and trekking. Leadership and networking are the true takeaways of a good education,” he said.

The inter-school dance competition was judged by Dr Wooday, Geethalakshmi G, founder of Nandi Bharatanatya Kalashala; Odissi dancer Madhulitha Mohapatra; and choreographer Danny.

The competition was divided into two categories — juniors and seniors — for middle and high school students. The judging criteria included song selection, creativity, expression, presentation, and coordination.

Madhulitha stressed the importance of creating platforms for students to express their creativity, saying, “Creative expression is a crucial part of growing up into responsible adults.”

Geethalakshmi said although she was there to judge, she found immense joy in witnessing young people express themselves through dance.

Danny pointed out that the students’ performances were not only entertaining and informative, but also carried powerful messages about the environment, wildlife, and pollution.

The event was co-powered by Pilot Pen India, in association with Wonderla Parks and Resorts and Poorvika.

Winners (juniors): Silicon City Academy of Secondary Education (in police uniform) bagged the first spot; first runners-up Ganga International School (in gold outfits); second runners-up (in silver dress) Jubilee English High School (CBSE); and consolation prize winners (from left in white) Sree Ayyappa Education Center (CBSE) during the DHIE