STEAM Conclave 2026: Underwater Lives Matter
Shiv Nadar School Faridabad launched the STEAM Conclave 2026 in partnership with Science Gallery Bengaluru and The Habitats Trust, bringing together Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics through the theme “Underwater Lives Matter”, aligned with UN SDG 14: Life Below Water.
The conclave aims to shift the narrative from merely “saving the ocean” to truly “understanding the ocean” by encouraging students to explore marine ecosystems through scientific inquiry, design thinking, empathy, and innovation. Students from Grades 6 onwards are participating in immersive learning experiences, expert interactions, interdisciplinary explorations, and collaborative projects focused on marine conservation and sustainability.
The month-long conclave, running from 15 April to 12 May 2026, is engaging students across campuses through STEAM periods, expert sessions, discussions, and hands-on explorations, leading up to the grand culmination on 13 May 2026 at Shiv Nadar School Faridabad.
STEAM Conclave Inauguration | 13 April 2026
The conclave commenced with an inaugural session at Shiv Nadar School Faridabad, where students from Grades 6 to 9 attended expert talks, performances, and interactive sessions centred around ocean conservation and marine biodiversity.
The inaugural keynote by Mr. Muralidharan Manoharakrishnan, Lead – Marine Species at WWF India, introduced students to Sea-Turtle Diversity and Conservation in India. Through films, discussions, and real-world conservation stories, students explored the importance of protecting marine ecosystems and reflected on the impact of human actions on underwater life.
Students were introduced to the central problem statement of the conclave:
“How might we use our knowledge, creativity, and technology to protect underwater life and create a healthier ocean for the future?”
The launch set the tone for a sustained month-long journey of inquiry, innovation, and environmental stewardship.
Session on Bioacoustics by Dr. Isha Bopardikar
As part of the ongoing conclave engagements, students attended an enriching online session led by Dr. Isha Bopardikar, marine biologist and bioacoustician from IISER Tirupati. The session introduced learners to the hidden acoustic world of oceans and the role of sound in understanding marine life.
Students explored how scientists use Passive Acoustic Monitoring (PAM) to study elusive marine mammals and understand underwater communication systems. The session encouraged learners to think critically about ocean noise pollution and the invisible ways in which marine ecosystems function.
Coral Reef Restoration
Students further deepened their understanding of marine conservation through sessions on coral reef restoration led by Samhita Veda Acharya from the Andaman Islands.
The sessions highlighted the ecological significance of coral reefs, the challenges posed by climate change and pollution, and the importance of sustainable restoration efforts. Learners connected scientific concepts with real-world environmental challenges while exploring the interconnectedness of marine ecosystems.
Fisheries, Aquaculture, and Wildcatch | Ms. Shilpa Khadse
As part of the STEAM Conclave engagements, Ms. Shilpa Khadse, Vice Principal – International Curriculum, Shiv Nadar School Faridabad, conducted an engaging and informative session on Fisheries, Aquaculture, and Wildcatch for Grade 9 students.
Students explored how fish are sourced through wildcatch and farming methods, the growing role of aquaculture in meeting global food demands, and the importance of sustainable practices in protecting aquatic ecosystems and marine biodiversity.
The session witnessed enthusiastic participation, with students asking thoughtful questions, engaging in meaningful discussions, and making strong real-world connections between environmental sustainability, food systems, and responsible consumption.
The Social Lives of Bees and Ants | Ms. Misha Bansal
Adding another dimension to ecological understanding, students participated in an engaging session by Ms. Misha Bansal on the social lives of bees and ants.
Learners explored how these tiny organisms thrive through highly organised systems of cooperation, communication, and shared responsibility. The session encouraged students to reflect on collaboration, community living, and the role of every living organism within larger ecosystems.
Student Leadership and Participation
A significant aspect of the conclave has been the active involvement of students through the Student Organising Committee. Students have been contributing across areas such as event planning, research, anchoring, creative media, design, logistics, and technical support, making the conclave truly “By the Students, For the Students.”
As the conclave progresses towards its culmination on 13 May 2026, students continue to engage in meaningful interdisciplinary learning experiences that strengthen critical thinking, environmental consciousness, creativity, and global citizenship. The conclave reflects Shiv Nadar School Faridabad’s commitment to experiential learning and nurturing socially responsible learners prepared to address real-world challenges.
