In a landmark international learning initiative, students from the Ashoka Group of Schools, Nashik, recently participated in a dynamic educational and cultural tour to Vienna, Austria—immersing themselves in diplomacy, sustainability, leadership, and global cooperation.
This week-long experience served as a gateway for 20 young Indian learners to witness first-hand how international institutions operate and how students can contribute meaningfully to global conversations.
A Front Row Seat at the United Nations
At the United Nations Office in Vienna and the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), students were offered a rare opportunity to understand the heartbeat of global diplomacy. Inside the UN’s historic chambers, the delegation presented compelling insights on key Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)—specifically SDG 5 (Gender Equality), SDG 8 (Decent Work), SDG 13 (Climate Action), and SDG 16 (Peace and Justice).
Their presentations were met with appreciation from global delegates, including Ms. Nidhi Dhiman, First Secretary and Commercial Representative at the Indian Embassy in Austria. She commended the clarity and depth of the students’ engagement with international issues and their role as proud representatives of India.
Culture Meets Diplomacy
Complementing their intellectual contributions was a graceful Kathak dance performance—a classical Indian art form performed by the students at the UN. It left a lasting impression on attendees, reminding everyone that cultural expression is as powerful as policy dialogue in bridging global communities.
This cultural excellence extended to a special audience with Her Excellency Herta Margarete, Princess of Tuscany, and members of the Habsburg Royal Family, who honoured the students with commemorative badges. This gesture underscored the respect and admiration the delegation received for combining cultural heritage with modern global vision.
Workshops, Parliament Visits, and the Future of Green Careers
A major educational highlight was the group’s participation in a workshop at the Ban Ki Moon Centre, where students explored the emerging space of Green Jobs and discussed pathways for environmentally responsible career growth.
The delegation also received privileged access to the Austrian Parliament, learning how democratic systems operate in Europe and how sustainability is embedded in national governance models.
At the prestigious Diplomatic Academy of Vienna, students engaged in a roundtable with the Director, discussing India’s position in BRICS, youth engagement in diplomacy, and the value of soft power in international relations. These conversations offered students a clearer view of how policies are shaped and nations collaborate.
A Journey Through History and Heritage
The tour also brought students face-to-face with Vienna’s rich cultural landscape. From the gothic grandeur of St. Stephen’s Cathedral to the opulence of the Vienna Opera House, and from the historical narratives of the House of Austrian History to the medieval charm of Kreuzenstein Castle, every site added depth to the delegation’s understanding of European history and global heritage.
The journey concluded with the Lazarus Union Investiture and Gala Dinner, where the Ashoka students delivered their final Kathak performance, once again receiving international honours and affirming the power of cultural diplomacy in building global respect.
A Vision Beyond Borders
The entire initiative was seamlessly led by Dr. Dinesh Sabnis (AGM – Sports and Activities), with academic and cultural guidance provided by Ms. Meghana Joshi (Headmistress – Secondary Section) and Ms. Mrudula Tare (Kathak Dance Educator).
Ms. Astha Kataria, Managing Trustee of Ashoka Group of Schools, summarized the spirit of the tour:
“This experience is about more than travel. It’s about nurturing global citizens—young leaders who think critically, communicate compassionately, and carry their cultural identity with pride. We are proud of how our students represented India in both word and spirit.” As these students return home, they do so with widened perspectives, a deeper understanding of international systems, and the confidence to step into global leadership roles in the future.
