The Southern Asia Division of Seventh-day Adventists concluded its two-day Expanding the Boundaries of Learning Conference, held July 9–10, 2023, sparking profound dialogue and revealing a compelling new approach to holistic learning.
The event, attended by education professionals, Adventist Church representatives, game enthusiasts, and members of the public, highlighted the value of incorporating traditional Indian games like Gulli Danda, Peg the Rings, Pandy Nandy, Pacheta, and Aadu Puli Aattam into the modern education system.
Dr. Edison Samraj, Education Director of the Southern Asia Division, highlighting traditional games of India in Tradizone (Photo Credit: SUD)
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The conference kicked off with an enlightening speech from the key organizer, illustrating the historical importance and cognitive benefits of these traditional games. Further into the conference, speakers argued that these games could act as a bridge between generations, reconnecting students with their cultural roots while simultaneously developing essential cognitive and physical skills. The conference stressed the significance of games in enhancing strategic thinking, agility, teamwork, and creativity—factors that often fall beyond the ambit of conventional classroom teaching.
In addition to promoting cultural heritage, the conference gave considerable attention to the NEWSTART health initiative of the Adventist Church, an acronym for nutrition, exercise, water, sunshine, temperance, air, rest, and trust in God. The NEWSTART initiative aims to holistically enhance the lives of individuals by emphasizing healthy living.
Several health experts emphasized the balance between physical health and spiritual well-being, underscoring the need to maintain good nutrition, regular exercise, proper hydration, adequate sunlight, temperance in all things, clean air, sufficient rest, and a steady trust in God.
Workshops were also held where attendees could participate in traditional games, promoting physical activity and cultural engagement. Parallel sessions offered advice on implementing the NEWSTART principles in daily life.
Volunteers highlighting NEWSTART health principle of the Adventist Church (Photo credit: SUD)
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The conference closed with a commitment to work with schools to incorporate these traditional games into their curricula and promote adopting the NEWSTART health principles. The conference organizers believe this integration could contribute significantly to a more holistic, engaging, culturally enriching learning environment.
Expanding the Boundaries of Learning has opened new avenues for discussions on education and health. By advocating for integrating traditional games and health principles into schools, the Southern Asia Division has challenged the conventional approach to education and laid the groundwork for a new, more holistic model. This event is just the beginning of what promises to be a new, exciting chapter in Indian education.
This article was provided by the Southern Asia Division.