The Japan Times - Singapore-Based Global Schools Chairman Atul Temurnikar Gets Highest Award for Overseas Indians

In a momentous recognition of his lifelong dedication to education, Mr. Atul Temurnikar, Chairman and Co-founder of Global Schools Foundation, has been conferred with the prestigious Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Award (PBSA) 2025 by President of India, in a glittering ceremony at Bhubaneswar city, Odisha on Jan 9.

The PBSA is the highest honour given by the Government of India to overseas Indians and Indian-origin individuals and organisations in recognition of their outstanding achievements both in India and abroad. Mr Temurnikar is being recognised for his work for the diaspora for "significantly advancing India's educational and cultural ties with other countries".

"I am honoured and humbled by this award at the hands of the honourable president Droupadi Murmu," said Mr Temurnikar. "This recognition has given me renewed encouragement to do more for the diaspora and bring the rich cultural heritage and knowledge of India to the world."

Mr. Temurnikar hsa pioneered efforts in revolutionising the educational landscape in Southeast and East Asia, particularly through his work in bringing India's CBSE (Central Board of Secondary Education)affiliated schools to countries like Singapore, Malaysia and Japan. In addition, he has worked relentlessly to strengthen ties between India and other countries through cultural and community connect, making this award a fitting tribute to the far-reaching impact of his efforts.

The PBSA is a prestigious honour given to non-resident Indians (NRIs) and organisations that have demonstrated exceptional contributions to their fields of expertise. Instituted by the Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India since 2003, the PBSA is presented during the biennial Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) - a convention that serves as a platform for the Indian diaspora to come together and discuss issues of mutual interest and relevance.

Mr Temurnikar was among 27 notable winners who received the award at the 18th edition of PBD scheduled from 8-10 January 2025 this year. The jury committee comprised India's Vice-President and External Affairs Minister among others. He is the 5th person/entity from Singapore to receive this recognition.

ABOUT GLOBAL SCHOOLS FOUNDATION

Founded in 2002, Global Schools Foundation is a community-oriented education institution whose mission is to cultivate and nurture young minds into global leaders of the future. In the last two decades, the Foundation has imparted academic and cultural education on more than 100,000 students across 70 countries. Its cultural arm Global Indian Foundation is in the forefront in running programmes and events that showcase the richness of Indian heritage in their country of domicile. It also encourages cross-cultural connection between students of different communities and nationalities through various platforms. Its investment arm Global Schools Group runs 12 international schools in 11 countries including Singapore, Japan, UK and UAE.

SOURCE: Global Schools Group

K.Yamaguchi--JT