Chennai, Dec 16, : The Grand Finale of Avinya, a nationwide initiative by Veranda K-12 designed to foster innovation among students from Grades 8 to 12, concluded on a high note at IIIT-Bangalore. The event celebrated the creativity and determination of India’s young minds, who presented innovative solutions aligned with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals
The finale marked the culmination of an inspiring journey that began with over 385 entries from 15 cities across India. After a rigorous evaluation process, the finalists underwent specialized training sessions and mentorship, helping them refine and present their ideas effectively.
Top Winners of Avinya 2025
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Winner: Chitrashree C & Divyanshi Soo Deeksha Stem School, Bangalore
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First Runner-Up: H Praveena Sri Dhurka BVM Global Group of Schools, Perungudi, Chennai
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Second Runner-Up: S. Meena & R. Dharshine Perunthalaivar Kamarajar Govt. Girls Hr. Sec School, Ambattur, Chennai
These participants showcased exceptional creativity, problem-solving skills, and innovative approaches to real-world challenges.
Empowering Changemakers of Tomorrow
Avinya’s mission is to inspire students to think creatively, solve pressing problems, and contribute meaningfully to a sustainable future. For more information, visit: www.verandak12.com/avinya.
The finale featured live presentations judged by a distinguished panel, including:
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Mr. Chaitanya Shravanth, Founder & CEO Circle Health
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Mr. Navratan Katariya, Director Innovation & Entrepreneurship (IoT & AI), NASSCOM
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Mr. Prateek Madhav, Co-founder & CEO AssisTech Foundation (ATF)
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Ms. Kalpana Subbarramappa, Program Manager Centre for Nano Science and Engineering (CeNSE), IISc
Prior to the finale, participants attended an intensive Bootcamp, providing insights into ideation, implementation, and entrepreneurship, equipping students with tools to transform innovative ideas into actionable solutions.
Insights from Industry and Academic Leaders;
Mr. Deepak Paul, Managing Director, igus (India) Pvt. Ltd, Chief Guest at the Inauguration Ceremony, highlighted the importance of fostering innovation early.
“Clarity of thought, flexibility, and the ability to define problems correctly are the foundations of effective problem-solving and innovation,” he said, appreciating the initiative for nurturing future-ready young minds.
Prof. Debabrata Das, Director, IIIT-Bangalore, Chief Guest at the Awards Ceremony, emphasized the role of purpose in innovation;
“Innovation is not merely about technology, but about responsibility and impact. Avinya provides a meaningful platform for young innovators across the country to address real-world challenges. At IIIT-B, sustainability is a lived practice, reflected in our commitment to clean energy, responsible resource use, and environmental stewardship. Initiatives like Avinya empower students to become problem-solvers and changemakers for a sustainable future.”
Mr. Rajesh Pankaj, Joint CEO, Veranda K-12, added;
“Avinya was conceived with a simple yet powerful belief: innovation and purpose must begin early. At the Grand Finale, we witnessed not just creativity, but deep thinking, empathy, and a genuine commitment to solving real-world problems aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals. At Veranda K-12, we are proud to provide a platform that nurtures curiosity, critical thinking, and confidence to build solutions for a better tomorrow.”
