An event in Dubai celebrating International Literacy Day 2025 highlighted the importance of digital skills while honouring ten high school students from across the UAE for their exceptional community service projects. The gathering, organised by the KCS Foundation India in collaboration with YES Events FZE LLC and event partner Deloitte, aligned with UNESCO’s theme of “Promoting Literacy in the Digital Era.”
The celebration brought together educators, corporate leaders, and young activists to discuss digital empowerment and advancing education. It began with a traditional lamp-lighting ceremony to symbolise the pursuit of knowledge, attended by key figures including Dr Ram Shankar, director of CBSE RO and CoE Dubai, and Dr Pankaj Jha, founder of the KCS Foundation.
Digital Literacy and Empowerment
Guest speakers stressed the need for modern educational approaches. Anishaa Jaisinghani, an IT Specialist at Deloitte Dubai, outlined the firm’s commitment to supporting the next generation through technology-based learning. Meanwhile, educationist and community advocate Priya Babel spoke on the role of education in building resilient and empathetic leaders, a sentiment that reflects modern approaches like how collaboration powers learning at Qatar Foundation.
Dr Gautam Kumar, an advisor at KCS Foundation, also highlighted the foundation’s work in empowering women, promoting digital literacy, and creating sustainable educational opportunities in rural India.
Recognising Youth Changemakers
A central part of the event was the presentation of the 5th Youth Empowerment and Service (YES) Awards. Chief guest Dr Ram Shankar presented the accolades to ten high school students who have led impactful community service projects for at least 18 months. In his address, he emphasised the importance of nurturing compassionate, tech-savvy, and socially responsible youth.
The awards recognise students who have created meaningful and measurable social impact through their initiatives. This year’s recipients were Amay Ahuja, Dhrishi V Ved, Ishaan Palicha, Kavin Khanna, Paarush Jindal, Prithvi Dua, Reya Khawaja, Riya Sarah Cornel, Sahej Kandhari, and Sumair Kandhari. Their projects ranged from establishing computer labs and launching sustainability initiatives to improving educational access for underprivileged communities, reflecting a spirit of engagement seen in various community events in Dubai.
In his closing remarks, Dr Pankaj Jha said, “The YES Awards celebrate not only youth leadership but also the power of literacy in the digital age. When we educate, we empower; when we empower, we transform communities.” The event concluded with participants reaffirming their shared goal of building a more inclusive and digitally proficient society.
