New Delhi, December 22, 2024 – The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) successfully hosted the National Adolescent Summit 2024 on December 20–21 at the National Bal Bhawan, New Delhi. The two-day event, themed “Life Skills, Mental Health, Safety, and Well-being,” gathered over 850 participants, including students, educators, and policy-makers, to address critical issues affecting adolescents and to promote holistic development in alignment with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020.
Key Highlights of the Summit
- Inauguration and Theme
CBSE Chairman Rahul Singh inaugurated the summit, emphasizing the transformative journey of adolescence and the need for education to extend beyond traditional academics. “Students should engage actively in shaping their educational experience, allowing their talents and voices to shine,” he remarked. - Workshops and Interactive Sessions
The summit featured a series of workshops tailored for counsellors and wellness educators. Topics ranged from managing mental health challenges to fostering inclusive learning environments. Interactive panel discussions explored adolescent safety, life skills, and the integration of wellness into education. - National Health and Wellness Quiz
A major attraction of the event was the National Health and Wellness Quiz, which drew enthusiastic participation. The competition underscored the importance of critical thinking and informed decision-making among students.
Insights from CBSE Leadership
Himanshu Gupta, CBSE Secretary, addressed the challenges of modern adolescence, including information overload and shifting family dynamics. He called for robust counselling systems in schools to ensure mental health support and inclusivity in educational spaces.
Keynote Session and Valedictory Ceremony
The valedictory session on December 21 featured Rajat Sharma, Chairman and Editor-in-Chief of India TV, as the special guest. Sharma highlighted the dangers of misinformation and cybercrimes, urging students to develop critical thinking skills and adopt ethical media practices. He also applauded initiatives like the Prime Minister’s Pariksha Pe Charcha, which foster open communication between students and educators.
Commitments and Outcomes
The summit concluded with a collective pledge by participants to prioritize adolescent well-being, strengthen mental health initiatives, and create inclusive school environments. Awards were presented to winners of various competitions, marking a celebratory end to the impactful event.
CBSE reaffirmed its commitment to empowering students through innovative programs, comprehensive counselling systems, and partnerships with families and communities. By addressing the multifaceted needs of adolescents, the summit underscored CBSE’s dedication to nurturing well-rounded, resilient individuals.
