The Maharashtra Educators’ Summit and Awards 2024, held on October 4 at The Lalit in Mumbai, emerged as a significant gathering that brought together thought leaders in contemporary education. Among the standout presentations was that of Mr. Bezad, Director of Adventure Education, who shared his extensive 27 years of experience in the field. His compelling argument centered on the transformative power of experiential learning, particularly through excursions and hands-on activities, as a means to enhance student understanding beyond the confines of traditional classrooms.

One innovative initiative highlighted by Mr. Bezad involves imparting financial literacy by immersing students in real-world environments. For instance, students visit a shoe manufacturing factory to gain insights into production costs versus retail pricing, fostering a practical entrepreneurial mindset. This hands-on approach not only demystifies complex concepts but also ignites curiosity and critical thinking among young learners.

Mr. Bezad's organization has partnered with schools across the nation to provide enriching experiences, including trips to NASA. While previous tours accommodated up to 500 students, current Visa restrictions have limited this to 100 participants. Nevertheless, Bezad remains optimistic about potential policy changes that would allow for increased student participation in such extraordinary educational opportunities.

Adventure Education also offers in-house programs tailored for schools, featuring adventure zones and sustainability initiatives. Bezad passionately asserts that experiential learning fosters collaboration among students and cultivates a deeper understanding of the world around them.

Emphasizing the ethos of his organization, he shared the inspiring theme: “In calm water, every ship has a good captain! The true test of a captain and their crew emerges during storms and turbulent waters.” The team at Adventure Education is committed to revolutionizing the learning experience for students and schools, ultimately shaping a more creative and informed future.