Bengaluru, September 18, 2025 — In a landmark gathering that placed early childhood education firmly on the national agenda, Kai CIRCLE (Centre for Innovation, Research, Collaboration, Leadership, and Empowerment) and Kai Early Years, International Preschool in Whitefield, launched the Transforming the Early Years – Celebrating Foundation Educators movement and conference. This groundbreaking initiative amplifies a vital message: the journey of building a better India begins with the youngest learners.
The gathering was led by Ms. Jennifer Sait, Co-Founder and Director of Learning & Development, and hosted by her dynamic team at Kai Early Years & Kai CIRCLE. Ms. Jennifer, known for her visionary advocacy for educators as nation-builders, she underscored the need for systemic recognition, respect, and empowerment of those shaping the formative years of children’s lives.
Delivering the keynote address, Dr. Swati Popat Vats, President of the Early Childhood Association (ECA) of India and a globally respected voice in early education, issued a powerful call for action. Her address urged educators to know the NEP and emphasized that the first eight years of life are not merely preparatory but foundational.
“The early years are not preparatory – they are foundational,” said Dr. Swati Popat Vats. “Those who teach during this critical period must be recognized as brain-builders.” Adding to this, Ms. Jennifer Sait affirmed: “If we are to build a nation of empathetic, emotionally resilient, and intellectually curious individuals, we must start by respecting and empowering the educators who shape these foundational years.”
A Platform for Change
The conference convened early childhood educators, parents, school leaders, curriculum developers, and innovators from across southern and eastern India, and from progressive international schools in Bangalore like Legacy, Canadian, Treamis, Ebenezer, BIS, Chaman amongst others. Discussions and sessions focused on redefining how India approaches early education – emphasizing child-centric learning environments, professional development, educator well-being, and policies aligned with global standards in early childhood care and education.
A highlight of the day was the series of hands-on workshops and thought leadership sessions led by early childhood education experts from India and Singapore. Drawing from diverse frameworks such as Montessori, Cambridge International (UK), and the International Baccalaureate (IB), these differentiated sessions spoke to educators at every stage of their journey, reinforcing inclusivity and innovation in practice.
Celebrating Educators, Shaping Futures
The event also featured a curated exhibition of resources, and practices designed to advance classroom engagement, and support teacher well-being. Throughout the day, the atmosphere was one of shared purpose and joy, a true celebration of foundation educators whose impact reaches far beyond the classroom as they shape the hearts and minds of the future citizens of India.
Kai Early Years and Kai CIRCLE’s Transforming the Early Years movement has set a new benchmark for India, placing educators at the center of nation-building and ensuring that early childhood education is recognized for what it truly is – the foundation of every flourishing society.