IGYM 2025: A Celebration of Earth Science, Curiosity, and Youthful Energy

The International Geoscience Youth Movement (IGYM) 2025, hosted by Prayoga Institute of Education Research, Bengaluru, was a vibrant confluence of cultures, ideas, and explorations into the wonders of Geosciences. Held at Prayoga’s Ravugodlu campus between 25^th and 29^th July 2025, this movement saw 18 young participants from across the world—France, Spain, the United States, Sri Lanka, Israel, and India— a truly global platform where passionate minds engaged with professors, researchers, and one another to learn, explore, and reimagine how Geosciences can be taught, understood and experienced.  

Preparation and Vision 

In preparation for the first international workshop in Geosciences education at Prayoga, work began well in advance.  Guided by a shared vision to promote geoscience education, the Prayoga team worked tirelessly on the program design, participant coordination and outreach.  These collective efforts bore fruit with the generous support of the International Geoscience Education Organization (IGEO), the Ministry of Earth Sciences, Government of India, and the RISE Foundation, making IGYM 2025 a reality. 

The Journey Begins 

By 23rd July, excited students arrived at Bengaluru, eagerly awaiting what lay ahead. Adding to the warmth, two of the students were accompanied by their fathers, making IGYM not only a scientific exchange but also a shared family. The inauguration ceremony on 25th July set a warm and inspiring tone, graced by eminent dignitaries, who shared thought-provoking insights on geoscience education and youth leadership. 

A Five-Day Immersive Workshop 

From 25th to 29th July, participants experienced a packed yet thoughtfully curated agenda. 

• Workshops and Sessions: Rock and mineral identification, weathering experiments, igneous processes, and sessions about Earth System Education were brought alive through engaging seminars by professors and researchers. 

• Field Experiences: Beyond classrooms, students trekked and explored rock formations, used visualization techniques, and experimented with hands-on methods—transforming scientific concepts into joyful discovery. 

• Memorable Highlights: Two creative moments stood out during the workshop. One was when students explored geoscience through cooking analogies, connecting everyday experiences with Earth processes. The other was a lively performance where participants framed a song on rocks and earth processes, complete with beatboxing rhythms—a unique blend of science and art that energized the entire group. 

  
  

• Youth Leadership Dialogues: Thought-provoking discussions encouraged students to see themselves as change-makers in geoscience education in their schools and countries. 

Beyond Classrooms: Exploring Bengaluru 

On 27th July, students were treated to a memorable city tour of Bengaluru. From the grandeur of Vidhana Soudha and the High Court to the cultural vibrance of Bull Temple Road and Commercial Street, they experienced the city’s unique blend of tradition and modernity. The visit was capped off with iconic culinary delights—masala dosa and chow chow bath at Vidyarthi Bhavan, followed by filter coffee that left many asking for a second cup. This visit made the city an unforgettable part of the IGYM experience. 

Memories That Last 

As the workshop drew to a close with the Closing Ceremony on 29th July, it was clear that the five days had left a lasting impact. Students were reluctant to leave, expressing how they wished the program could continue longer. Many captured the moment with group photos, videos echoing the word “Prayoga,” and heartfelt conversations with newfound friends. 

The final evening was especially magical—a sudden shower of rain turned into a celebration, as students danced in the rain on Prayoga’s serene campus. With the backdrop of lush greenery and hill views, the campus itself became a memory etched in the hearts of participants—an eye-catching setting that many will carry with them for years to come. 

A Movement Beyond Borders 

IGYM 2025 was the beginning of a movement that unites young voices for Earth Science education across the globe. The passion, curiosity, and leadership displayed by students reaffirmed Prayoga’s vision: to nurture climate-conscious leaders who can think beyond books and explore knowledge in transformative ways. 

As we reflect on this milestone, what remains with us is not just the detailed agenda or scientific discussions, but the smiles, the energy, the friendships, and the collective dream of making geoscience education more engaging and impactful worldwide. 

IGYM 2025 will remain etched as a lasting memory—a blend of professional rigor and personal joy, of science and culture, of learning and celebration. 

Gratitude and Acknowledgements 

As we look back on IGYM 2025, we would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to the entire Prayoga management, research team, and cross-functional teams, as well as to all the delegates and dignitaries who were part of the event. Without their unwavering support, this event could not have been completed so smoothly. 

We were honoured by the presence of distinguished guests, including: 

• Dr. Shailesh Nayak, Director, NIAS; Former Secretary, Ministry of Earth Sciences, Government of India 

• Dr. Jagvir Singh, Scientist-G & Advisor, Ministry of Earth Sciences, Government of India 

• Prof. Nir Orion, Weizmann Institute of Science, Israel; Chair, International Geoscience Education Organization (IGEO) 

• Prof. Guru Row, Professor Emeritus, IISc; Member, Advisory Board at Prayoga  

• Dr. Vikram Vishal, Professor, IIT Bombay; Adjunct Senior Lecturer, Monash University, Australia 

• Prof. R. Shankar, Former Professor, Mangalore University; Advisor, IGEO 

• Mr. G. Krishnamurthy, Regional Director, Central Ground Water Board, SWR 

• Mr. M. V. Narayana, Chief Visionary Officer, RISE Foundation 

• Mr. Krishan Shah, CFO, Annalect India 

  
  

…and many other distinguished guests who lent their presence and encouragement. 

Their contributions and insights not only enriched the sessions but also strengthened the foundation of this first international IGYM at Prayoga. 

Looking Ahead 

IGYM 2025 may have concluded with the closing ceremony, but it is only the beginning of a journey. This movement will not end here—we envision IGYM returning next year with even greater participation, and we at Prayoga look forward to hosting and nurturing this event in the years to come, keeping alive the spirit of exploration, collaboration, and leadership in Earth Science. 

- Anand DV