Schools from Poland, Italy, India, and Argentina were celebrated for their outstanding contributions to education and social change at the World’s Best School Prizes, organized by T4 Education. The awards, which took place on Thursday, recognized schools for their achievements in areas ranging from refugee support to environmental action. Each winner received a share of the $50,000 prize.
Ukrainian Refugee School Wins Overcoming Adversity Prize
The First Ukrainian School in Poland, operated by the Unbreakable Ukraine Foundation, won the Overcoming Adversity prize for its work with Ukrainian refugee children. Established in March 2022, shortly after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, the school serves over 1,500 children across three branches in Warsaw, Krakow, and Wroclaw. The school was praised for providing tailored education to children adapting to life in a new country.
“Schools like The First Ukrainian School demonstrate the power of education in overcoming even the most challenging circumstances,” said Vikas Pota, founder of T4 Education.
Italian School Honored for Anti-Bullying Initiative
In Italy, Istituto Galilei-Costa-Scarambone in Lecce won the Supporting Healthy Lives prize for its “Mabasta” initiative, a student-led campaign aimed at stopping bullying and improving mental health. The project encourages students to take an active role in addressing bullying and fostering a supportive school environment.
Indian Schools Recognized for Environmental and Educational Innovation
Two schools from India were also among the winners. Ryan International School, Vasant Kunj, in New Delhi took home the Environmental Action prize for its hydroponics and biogas projects, which aim to combat water scarcity and pollution. Meanwhile, CM RISE School Vinoba, Ratlam, was awarded the Innovation prize for its “Cycle of Growth” model. This program focuses on teacher development and student engagement, which has significantly improved attendance and exam pass rates at the school.
Argentina’s Colegio María de Guadalupe Wins Community Collaboration Award
Colegio María de Guadalupe in Buenos Aires, Argentina, received the Community Collaboration prize for its program that blends education with professional development for financially vulnerable students. The school was recognized for its efforts to prepare students for the workforce while providing them with a strong educational foundation.
Special Award for Community Choice
A special Community Choice award was given to Kalvi International Public School in Madurai, India, for its outreach programs targeting children from lower-income families. The school’s holistic approach to education emphasizes social integration and the overall development of its students.
In his closing remarks, T4 Education’s Vikas Pota encouraged governments to look to these schools as models for what can be achieved in education. “These schools are shining examples of how education can tackle the greatest challenges our societies face,” he said.
The World’s Best School Prizes were first launched in 2022 and aim to recognize schools that are making significant strides in education and innovation.
