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Greetings from the Director’s Desk
Celebrate the glorious 20th Anniversary of AFS India, marking two decades of impact and intercultural excellence!
Catch the vibrant highlights from the AFS India 7th National Meet
Explore key moments from the AFS India Central Zone Regional Meet
In Sponsored Stories, discover the impact of JENESYS, MIRAI-Setu, and the Asia Kakehashi Project+
Sending Stories feature the successful commencement of the Year Program 2026–27 to Japan and France
Sending Stories also highlight the Short Term Programs to Hungary, Denmark, Italy, and France
Hosting Stories showcase the Year Program 2026–27 Mid-Term Orientation
Member School Stories present various vibrant School Calendar Activities
Member School Stories also celebrate the collaborative spirit of the Domestic Class Exchanges
Learn about the AFS Chapter Leadership Summit 2025 held in Spain
Read about the AAI Digital Marketing and Recruitment Training initiative held in Malaysia
In Virtual Stories, explore Global Up with GCC
Virtual Stories also showcase the Intercultural Learning (ICL) Program
DIRECTOR’S DESK
A Year to Grow, Connect, and Lead with Purpose
As we begin a new year at AFS, we are reminded that meaningful change begins within each of us Growth is not accidental; it is intentional It comes from choosing to reflect, to learn, and to improve. This year, let us commit to working on ourselves: deepening our empathy, strengthening our intercultural understanding, and remaining open to perspectives that challenge our own.
The world around us is complex and rapidly changing. We are living in a time shaped by geopolitical tensions, climate change, natural disasters, and human-made crises that affect millions of lives These challenges can feel overwhelming Yet they also highlight why the AFS mission matters more than ever. When divisions grow wider, bridges become more essential.
Being part of AFS means believing that dialogue is stronger than discord and that cooperation is more powerful than conflict. Across borders, languages, and cultures, we share a responsibility to support one another. By staying curious and open to learning, we dismantle stereotypes and replace fear with understanding By listening actively and respectfully, we build trust. And by standing together, we demonstrate that global citizenship is not just an idea; it is a daily practice.
This year, let us unite in purpose. Let us encourage one another to step outside our comfort zones, to ask difficult questions, and to engage in conversations that foster growth. Let us support fellow volunteers, students, host families, and partners across the AFS network, knowing that our collective strength lies in our diversity.
Creating a more just and peaceful world does not happen overnight. It is built through small, consistent actions: mentoring a student, hosting an exchange participant, advocating for sustainability, or promoting inclusion in our communities. Each action matters. Each effort contributes to a broader culture of understanding and solidarity.
If we choose to work on ourselves while lifting each other up, we can transform challenges into opportunities for collaboration. Together, across borders, we can rise above division and help shape a future grounded in justice, empathy, and peace.
Let this be a year of growth, courage, and unity, a year in which we truly live the values we believe in.
Warm Regards,
Diya Badgel National Director
AFS Intercultural Programs India
20 Years of AFS India
AFS India proudly marked its 20th Anniversary with heartfelt celebrations across the country, brought to life by the passion and dedication of our community. A total of 19 AFS India Chapters came together to commemorate this remarkable milestone, making it a truly national celebration. The grand anniversary events were enriched by the presence of the AFS India Board of Directors and were celebrated in diverse locations, reflecting the reach and strength of AFS India.
Each chapter celebrated in its own unique way, engaging host families, schools, host students, alumni, volunteers, and well-wishers, all of whom form the backbone of the AFS movement. From meaningful gatherings and cultural exchanges to moments of reflection and joy, every celebration showcased the unity, warmth, and shared values that define the AFS community.
This milestone is not just a celebration of 20 years as an organization, but a celebration of the people who make AFS India what it is today, our committed volunteers, coordinators, host families, alumni, educators, and supporters. Your unwavering dedication continues to strengthen our mission and inspire intercultural learning across communities.
As we look ahead, these celebrations reaffirm our commitment to the AFS Vision of building a more just and peaceful world and our Mission of fostering intercultural understanding, global citizenship, and inclusive learning experiences, together, across cultures, and for generations to come.
Anchored in the inspiring theme “Bridging Cultures Building Futures,” the meet served as a dynamic platform for dialogue, collaboration, and shared learning in the spirit of intercultural understanding and global citizenship.
The four-day gathering featured a thoughtfully curated program, beginning with a traditional opening ceremony at the temple, followed by impactful keynote sessions, student-led creative showcases, Gau Sewa, heritage visits, traditional games, tableaux presentations, intercultural exchanges, and reflective discussions A special highlight was the presence of Mr Daniel Obst, President & CEO of AFS Intercultural Programs, whose inspiring address further reinforced the collective commitment to AFS values. AFS Intercultural Programs India extends its sincere appreciation to The Manik Public School for their exceptional hospitality and to all participants for their enthusiastic engagement. Together, the AFS India community reaffirmed its shared
AFS INDIA CENTRAL ZONE REGIONAL MEET
Hosted by Venkateshwar Signature School, Raipur | 3 – 5 October 2025
AFS India organized the Central Zone Regional Meet 2025, bringing together over 70 participants including students, educators, and school leaders from 11+ member schools With the theme “Empathy – Understanding Human Ties Beyond Words”, the three-day event provided a vibrant platform for dialogue, cultural exchange, and experiential learning.
The meet began with a warm welcome at Venkateshwar Signature School, Raipur, setting the tone for collaboration and meaningful connections The Inaugural Ceremony featured the ceremonial lighting of the lamp, a spirited flag march by participating schools, and inspiring addresses by Dr. Sowmya Raghubir, Principal of the host school, and Ms. Diya Badgel, National Director, AFS India, who emphasized the importance of empathy in nurturing global citizenship. The keynote session by Mr. Chitrasen Sahu, internationally renowned mountaineer and paraathlete, inspired participants to overcome challenges with resilience and compassion The day concluded with cultural performances showcasing Chhattisgarh’s rich heritage.
Throughout the meet, participants engaged in thought-provoking sessions and activities that reflected the core theme of empathy. A circle-time brainstorming session led by Mr Priyank Patel, social activist, encouraged deep reflections on human connections beyond spoken words. Students participated in a speech competition, articulating their perspectives on compassion and social responsibility with confidence and clarity. Delegates also experienced Chhattisgarhi folk dance workshops and Nukkad Natak performances, enriching their understanding of local culture
Community engagement played a key role in the event. Participants visited Nukkad Café, spending time with specially-abled children, and gained insights into social initiatives through a session by NGO Goonj Group discussions and networking opportunities facilitated by AFS India’s leadership fostered meaningful dialogue among educators and student leaders. The event concluded with a certificate distribution ceremony, prize distribution, and special felicitations for the host school’s Chairman, Principal, and faculty for their exceptional support and hospitality.
Cultural immersion continued with visits to Chhattisgarh’s Tribal Museum and local artisan displays, allowing participants to celebrate the state’s diversity while reflecting on their learnings
The Central Zone Regional Meet 2025 successfully brought the theme of empathy to life, creating meaningful human connections and inspiring participants to become compassionate changemakers in an interconnected world This event reinforced AFS India’s commitment to nurturing globally competent, e values forwar
SPONSORED STORIES Programs Completion
JENESYS Program 2025
The JENESYS (Japan–East Asia Network of Exchange for Students and Youths) Program, an initiative of the Government of Japan, continues to serve as a vital platform for fostering mutual understanding and strengthening people-to-people ties between Japan and countries across East Asia, including India. The program aims to deepen intercultural awareness by providing young participants with firsthand exposure to Japanese society, culture, and institutions through shortterm exchange experiences
For the 2025 cycle, the JENESYS Program saw strong interest from across the country. Following a structured selection process, 20 participants from reputed institutions such as IIT Hyderabad, IIIT DM Jabalpur, and other academic and professional backgrounds were selected to represent India for this prestigious exchange.
To ensure participants were well-prepared for the journey, pre-departure briefings were conducted, offering essential orientation on program objectives, cultural expectations, and engagement guidelines. These sessions enabled participants to approach the exchange with clarity, readiness, and confidence.
During their time in Japan, the participants engaged in a carefully curated program that included institutional visits, cultural interactions, and dialogue sessions. They experienced Japanese culture firsthand, interacted with local communities, and gained insights into Japan’s societal values, innovation ecosystem, and global outlook. The exchange provided participants with opportunities to strengthen intercultural communication skills, broaden global perspectives, and build meaningful networks.
This immersive experience has significantly contributed to enhancing mutual understanding between India and Japan and has equipped participants with valuable academic, professional, and personal insights. The JENESYS Program 2025 stands as a testament to the enduring partnership between the two countries and its commitment to nurturing globally minded youth prepared to thrive in an interconnected world.
MIRAI-Setu Program 2025
The MIRAI-Setu Program 2025 (Pilot) designed to support the circulation of human resources between the two countries, the program provided participants with meaningful exposure to Japanese academic and professional environments, enabling them to contribute to the economic and social development of both India and Japan. During the program, participants engaged in Japanese company visits, gaining insights into IT firms, manufacturing companies, and start-ups, and interacting with company leaders to better understand Japanese business culture and workplace practices. The program also included internship experiences, allowing participants to experience Japanese working styles firsthand and build professional and cross-cultural competencies.
In addition, inter-university exchange activities enabled participants to visit Japanese universities, interact with Japanese students, and engage in academic exchanges, further strengthening educational and cultural connections.
The program concluded on 29 October 2025, completing a 29-day in-person exchange program held in Japan from 1st to 29th October 2025. The program brought together 40 Indian undergraduate and graduate students and young professionals with the aim of fostering mutual understanding, strengthening friendships, and promoting people-topeople ties between India and Japan.
The successful completion of the MIRAI-Setu Program 2025 reaffirmed its role in deepening India–Japan cooperation through youth engagement, equipping participants with valuable skills, global perspectives, and networks for their future academic and professional journeys.
Asia Kakehashi Project+ 2025
The Asia Kakehashi Project+, an initiative announced by the Government of Japan in 2017, continues to play a pivotal role in strengthening peopleto-people ties and fostering mutual understanding between Japan and the rest of Asia. By offering high school students the opportunity to live and study in Japan, the program promotes intercultural learning, global citizenship, and long-lasting cross-cultural relationships.
The students departed for Japan on 20 August 2025, where they spent several months immersed in Japanese high schools, living with host families, and engaging actively with local communities Throughout the exchange, participants experienced Japan’s education system firsthand, adapted to new learning environments, and engaged deeply with Japanese culture, traditions, and daily life. This immersive experience enabled them to develop intercultural competence, independence, resilience, and a broader global perspective.
The Asia Kakehashi Project+ 2025 successfully concluded on 16 December 2025, with the return of all 19 student participants to their home country after completing their academic and cultural exchange in Japan. To support their smooth transition back home, AFS India conducted a structured Re-entry Orientation. The session provided students with a reflective space to process their exchange experiences, address reverse culture adjustment, and identify meaningful ways to integrate their learning into their academic, personal, and community lives. Participants were also encouraged to articulate their growth, share experiences, and explore avenues for continued engagement as program alumni.
Together, the exchange experience and the re-entry support reinforced the true spirit of “KAKEHASHI” building bridges of understanding, fostering lifelong connections, and strengthening enduring ties between India and Japan through meaningful youth exchange.
Year Program 2026 - 2027
Year Program in Japan 2026 - 2027 begins
Reyansh, a student of New Era Senior Secondary School, Vadodara, has begun an enriching 10-month Intercultural Exchange Program in Japan This long-term international experience marks a significant step in his academic and personal journey, offering deep cultural immersion and meaningful global exposure.
During his stay, Reyansh will live with a host family and attend a local Japanese school, allowing him to fully engage with Japan’s rich traditions, values, and everyday life. Through this immersive experience, he will gain first-hand insight into a new educational system and cultural environment.
The program provides a valuable platform for developing independence, adaptability, and cross-cultural understanding key 21st-century skills essential in today’s interconnected world. This transformative journey is set to broaden Reyansh’s global perspective and nurture him into a confident, responsible, and globally aware citizen.
Year Program in France 2026 -2027 commences
October 29, 2025 marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter for Kush, a student of The Emerald Heights International School, Indore, as he embarks on a transformative journey through the AFS Intercultural Exchange Program. This milestone opens the door to a world of meaningful learning, cultural discovery, and personal growth.
Kush’s path to this achievement reflects his dedication, resilience, and positive outlook. Over the next 10 months, he will live with a host family abroad and attend a local school, gaining firsthand experience of a new culture, educational system, and way of life. Through this immersive exchange, he will build cross-cultural understanding, independence, and global awareness skills that will serve him well in an increasingly interconnected world.
SENDING STORIES
Short Term Programs
A Heartwarming AFS Journey in Hungary Comes to a Close!
Twenty-one enthusiastic AFS India students completed their adventure to Hungary on November 24, ready to embrace a new country, new people, and new way of life
Students are from: New Digamber Public School, Indore; Delhi Public School, Indore; Yadavindra Public School, Mohali; The Emerald Heights International School, Indore; Rajkumar College, Raipur; SelaQui International School, Dehradun; Queens College, Indore
AFS Academy: Culture Nov (Flex) Denmark ended successfully
Students are from: Aurum The Global School, Nainital; Delhi Public School, Indore; Lakshmipat Singhania Academy, Kolkata; Kasiga School, Dehradun; Scindia Kanya Vidyalaya, Gwalior; The Daly College, Indore; Viraj International School, Boisar
AFS Winter in Italy Program Concludes with Lasting Memories
Ten outstanding students from The Emerald Heights International School, Indore; Scindia Kanya Vidyalaya, Gwalior; Suchitra Academy International School, Hyderabad; The North Star School, Rajkot; Unison World School, Dehradun; SSVM School of Excellence, Coimbatore; and Shree Sarasswathi Vidhyaah Mandheer School, Mettupalayam enthusiastically embarked on their Winter in Italy program, successfully completing an unforgettable international experience.
This memorable journey provided the students with a unique opportunity to immerse themselves fully in Italian life
During their stay, they lived with warm and welcoming host families, celebrated Christmas the Italian way, and attended local schools alongside their Italian peers. Beyond academics, they explored Italy’s rich traditions, cuisine, and everyday lifestyle, gaining firsthand exposure to its vibrant culture
The program proved to be a meaningful journey of learning, cultural exchange, and personal growth leaving the students with lasting memories, global friendships, and a deeper appreciation of the world beyond their borders.
French Dreams Fulfilled: 2-Month Program Successfully Completed
During their stay, the students engaged closely with French life, exploring everything from local cuisine and family traditions to school systems, language, and everyday customs As they navigated cultural nuances and adapted to a new lifestyle, they gained valuable insights into the rich heritage and contemporary spirit of France.
This international exposure brought not only academic and cultural growth but also fostered independence, adaptability, and cross-cultural understanding, leaving the students with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation of the world beyond their borders
HOSTING STORIES
Year Program Mid Term Orientation
MEMBER SCHOOL STORIES
School Calendar Activities
The October to December phase of the School Calendar brought together diverse formats and strong student voices. Across debates, creative challenges, sustainability-focused initiatives, and experiential learning, students engaged with real-world themes while building confidence, empathy, and critical thinking skills.
Delhi International School Edge
Thali Tales: From Mom’s Kitchen to Entrepreneurial Marvel
Students explored culture, memory, and innovation by transforming family recipes into entrepreneurial ideas The activity blended storytelling with creativity, encouraging students to reflect on heritage while thinking like problem-solvers.
Pacific World School
The Unseen Ripples: Geopolitics 2025 Students engaged in thoughtful discussions on global power dynamics and international issues. The activity sharpened analytical thinking and encouraged respectful dialogue, helping students understand how global decisions impact everyday lives
The Assam Valley School Impact Through Action: CommunityVoices
This activity grounded learning in lived realities. Students explored community challenges, shared local stories, and reflected on the power of collective action. The conversations highlighted empathy, responsibility, & the understanding that meaningful change often begins close to home.
Birla Public School, Kishangarh
Manthan: Inter-School English Debate Competition
The year closed with sharp thinking and confident expression Students debated contemporary issues with clarity and respect, demonstrating how dialogue and disagreement can coexist. The competition reflected strong preparation, critical reasoning, & a willingness to listen - skills that define engaged global citizens.
Satya Prakash Public School, Jabalpur Culture & Heritage Uncovered: Travel, Capture and Camping (In-Person)
This immersive experience took learning beyond the classroom. Through travel, photography, and on-ground exploration, students engaged deeply with local culture and heritage, building observation skills, teamwork, and appreciation for lived contexts.
Venkateshwar Signature School Graphic Storytelling (Comic Strip) Creativity met communication as students used visual storytelling to express ideas. Comic strips became a medium for humor, reflection, and social commentary, showcasing students’ ability to translate complex thoughts into engaging narratives
The Hyderabad Public School, Begumpet Elocution Competition on SDG 4
Focusing on Quality Education, students used the spoken word to question access, equity, and opportunity Their speeches were thoughtful and persuasive, showing how young voices can advocate for education as both a right and a tool for social change.
Rajmata Krishna Kumari Girls' Public School, Jodhpur EcoShift
EcoShift invited students to rethink everyday choices through a sustainability lens From innovative ideas to practical solutions, participants demonstrated a growing awareness of environmental responsibility and the role individuals play in shaping a sustainable future.
Together, these activities closed the year with purpose and depth. The October–December period highlighted how School Calendar Activities continue to serve as meaningful platforms for expression, collaboration, and learning across schools.
MEMBER SCHOOL STORIES
Domestic Class Exchange
Pragnya Bodhini School, Mumbai, hosted by SDPS International School, Indore
SDPS International School, Indore successfully hosted a Domestic Cultural Exchange Program with Pragnya Bodhani High School, Mumbai, under AFS Intercultural Programs India, from 12 to 17 November 2025. Aligned with SDG 3 – Good Health & Well-Being, the program brought together seven students and two mentors with the aim of promoting intercultural understanding, emotional well-being, and experiential learning Students engaged in creative and interactive activities such as a Nukkad Natak, Children’s Day Carnival, buddy group interactions, AI-based learning sessions, and sports and fitness activities, fostering empathy, teamwork, and healthy lifestyle practices.
The exchange was further enriched through educational and cultural visits to key heritage and recreational sites, offering meaningful cultural immersion beyond the classroom. An Evening Cultural Night featuring student performances and presentations marked a memorable conclusion to the program. Participants reflected significant personal growth, increased confidence, and the development of lasting intercultural friendships, making the exchange a rewarding and impactful experience for all involved
Cambridge International School, Kullu, hosted by Indore Public School, Indore
A Journey Enriched with Learning, Culture, and Warmth!
Under the AFS Intercultural Programs India Domestic Class Exchange Program, Cambridge International School, Kullu participated in a culturally immersive exchange hosted by Indore Public School, Indore. The visiting students were welcomed with exceptional warmth, ensuring a smooth and comfortable transition that set a positive tone for the exchange. The program offered a thoughtfully curated blend of educational, cultural, and experiential learning, fostering intercultural understanding and meaningful engagement
Highlights of the exchange included heritage visits to Maheshwar Fort and the Narmada Ghats, where students explored historic architecture, traditional Maheshwari handloom weaving, and local cuisine School-based interactions featured a welcome assembly, creative art and dance activities, and student-led cultural performances, with Cambridge students presenting the traditional Naati Dance. Educational and cultural excursions to Mahakaleshwar Temple, Rajwada Palace, Khajrana Ganesh Temple, Indore Zoo, and the Infantry Research Centre and Museum, Mhow, along with visits to local markets and cultural hubs, enriched the learning experience. The exchange successfully strengthened intercultural bonds, encouraged peer learning, and created lasting memories.
AFS CHAPTER LEADERSHIP SUMMIT 2025
Held at Mollina, Malaga, Spain
The Chapter Leadership Summit, held from 20 to 23 November 2025 in Mollina, Malaga, Spain, brought together over 100 AFS volunteers from 33 countries, creating a vibrant space for learning, collaboration, and shared leadership. The summit aimed to strengthen chapter leadership worldwide while reaffirming AFS’s mission of fostering intercultural understanding and active global citizenship.
India was represented by three dedicated volunteers, including Ms Roma Shah and Ms Rachna Badgel from the Indore Chapter, and Ms. Deepa Kapoor from the Hyderabad Chapter, who actively engaged in discussions, workshops, and collaborative sessions with peers from across the globe. The diversity of participants was one of the summit’s most inspiring aspects, with volunteers ranging from young leaders in their early twenties to experienced chapter heads in their eighties.
The summit also provided valuable opportunities to interact with AFS International leadership, including Mr. Daniel Obst, President and CEO of AFS International; Mr. Ernesto Rey Moreno, Chair of the Board of Trustees; and Dr. Lucas Welter, Chief Organisation Development and Strategy Officer, along with other International Office representatives.
Overall, the Chapter Leadership Summit 2025 reinforced the strength of AFS’s global volunteer network and the enduring power of intercultural exchange.
Many senior volunteers shared powerful stories of their own exchange experiences, having first encountered AFS as students decades ago. One particularly inspiring example was a volunteer from the United States who participated in an exchange program in 1977 and continues to serve the organisation to this day, demonstrating the lifelong impact of AFS.
AAI DIGITAL MARKETING AND RECRUITMENT TRAINING
Held at Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
AFS processes are unique and continuously evolving As the world increasingly embraces digital transformation, AFS systems are adapting to ensure these opportunities are fully leveraged. In this context, the AAI Region organized its Annual Digital Marketing and Recruitment Training from 5-9 November in the vibrant setting of “Truly Asia – Malaysia.”
The training brought together 21 participants from 12 countries, fostering a dynamic environment of learning, collaboration, and exchange. Mr. Chunjanglung Kamei from AFS India represented the organization at this five-day intensive program, engaging with regional colleagues to strengthen digital strategies and recruitment approaches. While participants regularly connect through virtual platforms, meeting in person significantly enhanced collaboration, allowing ideas to flow more freely and partnerships to grow stronger.
The sessions were carefully designed and facilitated by experienced trainers from AFS International and the AAI Region Through interactive and practical modules, participants gained in-depth insights into the effective use of Salesforce, digital marketing tools, and innovative recruitment methods for both sending and hosting programs. The training emphasized adaptability, data-driven decision-making, and regional cooperation.
AFS Malaysia (AFS MAS) hosted the event with exceptional warmth and professionalism. Beyond the structured learning sessions, participants were offered opportunities to explore Kuala Lumpur, experience local culture, enjoy traditional cuisine, and build meaningful connections outside the training environment. These shared experiences further strengthened the regional AFS network.
Although the in-person training has concluded, the collaboration continues through ongoing online meetings and discussions. The group has also committed to developing online training modules to support capacity building and continuous learning for team members across the region.
This training strongly reflects the AFS Vision of a more just and peaceful world and advances the AFS Mission of providing intercultural learning experiences that empower individuals to become active global citizens, reinforcing AFS’s commitment to innovation, connection, and global understanding.
VIRTUAL STORIES
Global Up with GCC
74 students and 35 educators from AFS Member Schools and other associations, pursued the AFS Global Competence Certificate, a virtual learning program that develops tangible global skills essential to live, work, and make a real social impact around the world The Global Up Programs develop essential & lifelong global “power skills”: collaboration, critical thinking, problem solving, cross-cultural communication, open-mindedness & flexibility.
Participation from AFS India Member Schools and other Associations:
1.Aurobana Indian School, Madurai
2.Aurum The Global School, Nainital
3.Daly College, Indore
4.Delhi Public School Indore
5.Kasiga School, Dehradun
6.Lakshmipat Singhania Academy, Kolkata
7.Mayo College Girls School, Ajmer
8.New Digamber Public School, Indore
9.Queens College, Indore
10.R D International School, Erode
11.RajKumar College, Raipur
12.Rajmata Krishna Kumari Girls' Public School, Jodhpur
Opportunities beyond Borders
13.Scindia Kanya Vidyalaya, Gwalior
14.SelaQui International School, Dehradun
15.Sri Aurobindo Mira Universal, Madurai
16.Sunbeam School, Mughalsarai
17.Swarnprastha Public School, Sonepat
18.The Emerald Heights International School, Indore
19.The Hyderabad Public School, Begumpet
20.Vantage Hall Girls Residential School, Dehradun
21.VidyaGyan School, Sitapur
22.Viraj International School, Boisar
23.Yadavindra Public School, Mohali
24.Sri Aurobindo Mira College of Education
A new collaboration brewed between AFS India and Value Learning, Australia, creating a new platform for educators of the Asia-Pacific region. 4 Indian educators from 2 AFS India Member Schools were a part of a pilot GCC cohort along with educators from Australia and China. Over warm connections and lively discussions, participants translated global perspectives into classroom practice, strengthened cross-border networks, and built confidence in diverse learning environments. The cohort also fostered joyful interactions and lasting friendships, establishing a strong and scalable model for future multinational educator collaboration. Stay tuned for upcoming cohorts in 2026.
VIRTUAL STORIES
Intercultural Learning (ICL) Program Highlights
The final quarter of 2025 brought the Intercultural Learning (ICL) journey to a thoughtful close across AFS India member schools. Through Changemakers for students and Pathway to Global Classroom for educators, sessions focused on reflection, dialogue, and carrying learning forward.
Students engaged more deeply with global issues, connecting them to personal responsibility and everyday action. Educators used this space to reflect on classroom practice, exchange strategies, and strengthen their confidence in facilitating conversations around culture, inclusion, and global perspectives.
With many participants building on earlier sessions, discussions this quarter were more nuanced and intentional. Rather than slowing down, the final months reinforced the value of intercultural learning as a core part of holistic education.
Participation (Oct-Dec 2025)
172 STUDENTS engaged through Changemakers
76 EDUCATORS trained through Pathways
248 TOTAL PARTICIPANTS across 35 schools
October to December served as both a conclusion and a bridge preparing students and educators to take intercultural competence into the next academic year with clarity and purpose.
AFS Mission
AFS Intercultural Programs is an international, voluntary, non-governmental, non-profit organization that provides intercultural learning opportunities to help people develop the knowledge, skills and understanding needed to create a more just and peaceful world.
AFS Values
AFS enables people to act as responsible global citizens working for peace and understanding in a diverse world. It acknowledges that peace is a dynamic concept threatened by injustice, inequity, and intolerance
AFS seeks to affirm faith in the dignity and worth of every human being and of all nations and cultures. It encourages respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms without distinction as to race, sex, language, religion or social status.
AFS activities are based on our core values of dignity, respect for differences, harmony, sensitivity and tolerance.
Global competence is the “power skill” young people require to make their impact on an increasingly diverse world. Active global citizens must be prepared to communicate, collaborate and lead across differences to tackle the world’s greatest challenges.
AFS India Vision
To be the leading organization in intercultural education and experience that focuses on growing its programs for the underserved.
