Adani International School Hosts IRIS National Fair, Showcasing India’s Emerging STEM Talent

Adani International School (ADIS), Shanti gram, hosted the IRIS National Fair 2025-26 (Cohort 2) from February 6 to 8, bringing together young student innovators from across the country and positioning Ahmedabad as a growing hub for school-level research and innovation in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM).

The three-day national event saw participation from 75 students representing 12 states and 24 cities. Along with educators, researchers and mentors, the students showcased original research projects through exhibitions, mentoring sessions and symposia designed to encourage inquiry-based learning and real-world problem solving beyond traditional classroom settings.

The valedictory ceremony was addressed by Gujarat Minister of State for Education Rivaba Ravindrasinh Jadeja, who emphasised the importance of introducing research and innovation early in the education system in line with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. She said schools should function as spaces that nurture curiosity, experimentation and scientific thinking, enabling students to question ideas, test solutions and learn from failure at an early stage.

Speaking at the event, Namrata Adani, Promoter of Adani International School and Non-Executive Director at the Adani Group, said initiatives like the IRIS National Fair help students move beyond textbooks and apply knowledge to real-world challenges through experimentation and research.

The programme began with a Principals' and Educators' Conference, where school leaders from Ahmedabad discussed ways to strengthen experiential learning and inquiry-driven STEM education. Students later presented their research projects, which were evaluated by experts through a structured assessment and mentoring process.

The fair was formally inaugurated on February 7 and served as a qualifying platform for the International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF) 2026. At the conclusion of the competition, 15 projects were awarded Gold Medals and 10 received Silver Medals. Gold Medal winners will advance to the final selection round to represent India at the global science competition.

The valedictory event was attended by senior representatives from the Adani Group, including Amit Singh, Chief Executive Officer of its International Energy Business. Hosting the IRIS National Fair further highlighted Adani International School's focus on holistic education, combining academic rigour with achievements in STEM research, global competitions, sports, arts and leadership development. The event also underlined the expanding role of schools in fostering early-stage research, collaboration and innovation among students.

The IRIS programme is an initiative of the EXSTEMPLAR Education Linkers Foundation, which aims to promote scientific research among students from Classes V to XII and provide national and international exposure through platforms such as ISEF.