𝘛𝘢𝘮𝘪𝘭 𝘕𝘢𝘥𝘶 𝘎𝘰𝘷𝘵 𝘚𝘤𝘩𝘰𝘰𝘭 𝘚𝘵𝘶𝘥𝘦𝘯𝘵𝘴 𝘵𝘰 𝘙𝘦𝘱𝘳𝘦𝘴𝘦𝘯𝘵 𝘐𝘯𝘥𝘪𝘢 𝘢𝘵 𝘜𝘕 𝘉𝘢𝘯𝘨𝘬𝘰𝘬 – 𝘚𝘶𝘱𝘱𝘰𝘳𝘵𝘦𝘥 𝘣𝘺 𝘎𝘙𝘛 𝘏𝘰𝘵𝘦𝘭𝘴
Chennai, August 19th 2025 – In a first for India, students from rural government schools in Tamil Nadu will represent the nation at the 5th International Youth Forum at the United Nations Conference Centre (UNCC), Bangkok, on 21st and 22nd August 2025. This marks the first time in the country’s history that students from such backgrounds will participate in a United Nations event of this stature.
This powerful milestone is part of the Student Education Expedition to the United Nations (SEEUN), organised by the Sustainable Development Council, an organisation with Special Consultative Status with the UN ECOSOC. The forum will bring together global leaders, diplomats, youth innovators, policymakers, and educators to exchange insights and strategies for achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
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Selected by the State, the following students will represent the Nation.
- YS yalini 16 Namakkal district government model school, keerambur
- Dharanisri.M AGE 13 GOVERNMENT MODEL HIGHER Secondary School Vallam Thanjavur
- Nisanthini age 15 Government Higher Secondary School latheri Vellore
- Kamlesh age 15 Government Boys higher secondary School komarapalayam Namakkal
- V. Ragul age 13 Government Higher Secondary School kandigai Chengalpattu
- Ashwak Age: 16, School: Municipal Boys Higher Secondary School, Fort, Salem-1.
The participating students were meticulously shortlisted by the Department of School Education, Government of Tamil Nadu through a rigorous merit-based selection process reaching deep into the state’s most remote districts. This achievement is a testament to Tamil Nadu’s progressive educational vision — committed to equity, access, and aspiration for all.
Beyond Borders: A Transformational Journey
For many of these children, this is their first step outside their home districts. Now, they will step onto a global stage to share India’s youth voice on critical issues like Quality Education, Climate Action, Gender Equality, Innovation & Leadership, and Global Citizenship. Their journey will inspire millions of children in similar circumstances to dream bigger and believe they too belong on the world stage.
Principal Sponsor: GRT Hotels & Resorts – A Legacy of Heart- This landmark achievement has been made possible through the unwavering support of GRT Hotels & Resorts, the Principal Sponsor of the delegation. GRT Hotels, which has stepped forward to ensure these students have every resource and opportunity needed to make their voices heard globally.
Mr Vikram Cotah, CEO, GRT Hotels & Resorts shared “These students represent the dreams of millions. As a homegrown brand deeply rooted in Tamil Nadu, GRT Hotels felt it was our honour to ensure they reach the world stage with dignity, pride, and hope. We believe talent and potential should never be limited by geography or circumstance. By supporting this initiative, we hope to inspire other young people from rural backgrounds to dream bigger, aim higher, and believe that their voice matters.”
The initiative, led by the Sustainable Development Council (Special Consultative Status with UN ECOSOC), is a shining example of public–private collaboration and a milestone in social inclusion.
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