Adani International School (ADIS), Shantigram, Ahmedabad, hosted the IRIS National Fair 2025–26 (Cohort 2) from February 6 to 8, establishing the city as a hub for school-level research and innovation in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics). The three-day event brought together 75 student innovators from 12 states and 24 cities, alongside educators, mentors, and researchers.

Fostering Inquiry-Based Learning

The fair combined student research exhibitions, structured mentoring, symposia, and public engagement, allowing participants to explore real-world scientific challenges beyond classroom learning. Addressing the valedictory ceremony, Smt Rivaba Ravindrasinh Jadeja, Minister of State for Education, Gujarat, emphasized the importance of nurturing research and innovation at the school level.

“Research is no longer confined to laboratories. Schools must become incubators of ideas and solutions, not just centers of instruction,” she remarked.

Echoing this vision, Ms Namrata Adani, Promoter of ADIS, highlighted the value of curiosity-driven education, stating, “Platforms like the IRIS National Fair enable students to question, experiment, and apply knowledge to real-world problems.”

Educator Collaboration and Expert Mentoring

The program began with a Principals’ and Educators’ Conference, bringing together school leaders from Ahmedabad to discuss strategies for strengthening inquiry-based STEM pedagogy. Students presented original research through curated exhibitions evaluated by experts, receiving guidance to refine their projects.

Competitive Assessment and Global Opportunities

The fair was officially inaugurated on February 7, initiating competitive evaluations. Serving as a qualifying platform for the International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF) 2026, 15 projects were awarded Gold Medals and 10 received Silver Medals. Gold Medal winners will advance to the final national selection to represent India at ISEF.

Support from ADIS and Adani Group Leadership

The valedictory ceremony was attended by senior leaders including Ms Namrata Adani and Mr Amit Singh, CEO, International Energy Business, Adani Group. Their presence reinforced the school’s commitment to holistic education and fostering a research-oriented mindset among students.

Building India’s Next Generation of Scientific Thinkers

The successful conclusion of IRIS National Fair 2025–26 highlighted the role of schools as catalysts for early-stage research, collaboration, and innovation, providing young innovators with opportunities to grow intellectually and creatively.

The IRIS program, led by EXSTEMPLAR Education Linkers Foundation, supports students from Grades V to XII, offering a national platform to showcase scientific research and pathways to international recognition.

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