Leading education experts from India and across the world gathered at Reliance Foundation’s second edition of ‘Building Flourishing Futures’, a two-day convening focused on early childhood education and primary education. The event was held on February 7 and 8 at the Nita Mukesh Ambani Junior School (NMAJS) in Mumbai and brought together more than 250 educators, Anganwadi teachers, policymakers, and global practitioners.

The convening encouraged meaningful dialogue, knowledge exchange, and the sharing of innovative practices in foundational learning to help children build strong academic and emotional foundations for life.

A Shared Vision for Holistic Child Development

Inspired by the vision of Smt. Nita M. Ambani, Founder and Chairperson of Reliance Foundation, the event reinforced the belief that every child has unlimited potential.

This year’s theme, “Meeting Learners Where They Are: From Early Childhood to Primary Education,” emphasized the importance of emotional safety, nurturing relationships, and a sense of belonging in a child’s early years. Experts agreed that when children feel secure and valued, they are more likely to develop resilience, confidence, and a lifelong love for learning.

Speaking at the event, Ms. Isha Ambani, Director, Reliance Foundation and Vice Chairperson of NMAJS, said:

“When education connects with children emotionally, socially, and cognitively, it builds the foundation for joyful and meaningful learning. At Reliance Foundation, we believe children flourish when they feel cared for, safe, valued, and supported. Through ‘Building Flourishing Futures,’ we aim to create a strong platform for educators to exchange ideas and build inclusive learning ecosystems.”

Global and Indian Experts Share Best Practices

The convening featured renowned international education leaders, including:

• Dr Rebecca Rolland, Harvard University

• Prof Marilyn Fleer and Dr Prabhat Rai, Monash University

• Ms Fiona Carter, Wellington College, UK

• Dr Rita Chawla-Duggan, Bath University, UK

• Ms Beatrice Moccia, Raoul Wallenberg International School, Spain

Prominent Indian experts and policymakers also contributed to the discussions, including:

• Shri Kailash Pagare, IAS, Commissioner ICDS, Government of Maharashtra

• Dr Preeti Rao, IIT Bombay

• Dr Swati Popat Vats, Early Childhood Association

• Mr Bharat Visweswariah, British Asian Trust

• Representatives from Central Square Foundation, Peepul, and Cyberlite

Their sessions highlighted practical solutions, research-based strategies, and policy-level insights aligned with India’s National Education Policy (NEP 2020).

Three Thematic Streams Focused on Foundational Learning

The two-day event included masterclasses and interactive learning labs across three main themes:

1. Foundations of Curiosity: The Art of Early Learning

Focused on play-based learning, child development, and nurturing environments, this stream explored how curiosity drives deeper engagement in the early years.

2. Count, Read, Grow: The Cornerstones of Success

This track emphasized foundational literacy and numeracy, offering developmentally appropriate and joyful teaching methods to strengthen early academic skills.

3. Teaching and Learning Reimagined: AI as a Partner in Education

Experts discussed how artificial intelligence in education can support teachers, enhance safety, and ensure equitable access to learning opportunities.

Strengthening Grassroots Education Through Anganwadi Participation

A key highlight of the convening was the participation of 20 Anganwadi educators from Maharashtra and Telangana, who are part of Reliance Foundation’s capacity-building initiatives in early childhood education.

These educators attended specially curated masterclasses conducted by teachers from the NMAJS Early Years Campus (EYC) and Little Nest. The sessions encouraged cross-sharing of ideas and practical strategies that can be adapted to improve teaching-learning experiences in Anganwadis.

Launch of ‘Pedagogies of Play’ Publication

During the event, Reliance Foundation launched a new publication titled ‘Pedagogies of Play: Innovations in Early Childhood Education.’

The book highlights experiences from 10 organizations and showcases evidence-based, play-driven approaches that improve learning outcomes, inclusion, and holistic child development. The publication reflects the Foundation’s ongoing commitment to strengthening the education ecosystem in India and empowering educators to shape the future of learning.

A Step Forward for Early Childhood and Primary Education

Delegates also toured the modern learning facilities at NMAJS and its Early Years Campus, where they observed how flexible learning spaces promote personalized, child-centered education.

By bringing together global research, Indian field experience, and policy alignment, Building Flourishing Futures 2026 created a collaborative platform focused on improving early childhood education, foundational literacy and numeracy, and inclusive learning systems.

Through initiatives like this, Reliance Foundation continues to support educators and strengthen India’s education landscape, ensuring that every child has the opportunity to grow, learn, and truly flourish.