Optimal Media Solutions, a part of The Times of India Group, hosted the esteemed Times School Survey West Bengal 2025, a program aimed at recognizing academic achievement throughout the state. Leading educators, legislators, and institutional leaders came together for the occasion, which provided an exciting forum for recognizing exceptional accomplishments in the field of education.

Chief Guest Saina Nehwal, an Olympic medallist and legendary figure in Indian badminton, captivated the audience with her story of tenacity and determination. Her presence elevated the event’s stature and served as a source of inspiration, reminding guests of the timeless importance of self-control, perseverance, and discipline—qualities that are just as crucial in both athletics and education.

“The role of parents and coaches is paramount for players. I wanted to do so many things during my youth. One day I wanted to be something, and the next day I wanted to become something else. However, my mother knew what was best for me, and she took me to play badminton. One day, she said that I would win an Olympic medal for India. I was shocked as no female player from India had so much popularity during those times. However, she believed in me and my hard work. So did my coach. If the coach said to train for an hour, I used to train for two hours. So both my mother and coach were satisfied with me, and they had great dreams for me,” said Saina Nehwal.

She also said, “I joined a summer camp after I impressed the coach by showing a smash. The coach was surprised as a beginner could do a smash. Before that, I had never played badminton. I had learned karate for a year, but it was taxing on the body. So I wanted to play a sport that would be less taxing. And hence when we moved to Hyderabad, I was taken to the badminton summer camp by my parents”.

The eagerly awaited survey results were revealed during the occasion, displaying a wide range of schools that excelled in academic, extracurricular, and holistic development areas. The evaluation method was transparent and credible because the winners were selected from a shortlist by Advance Insights Pvt. Ltd., an impartial third-party research agency. Institutions that continuously provided outstanding educational experiences, encouraged innovation, and supported students’ overall growth were honored with this distinction.

“Thank you, teachers, because we wouldn’t be here without you. Although it is stated that parents serve as our primary educators, we ultimately remember our teachers when we attend school. There were undoubtedly times when I missed school. I appreciate all that you have done for society. No one can survive without you, in my opinion,” said actress Mimi Chakraborty.

Institutions that had established standards for creative instruction, student involvement, and general academic achievement were honored at the awards event. The winners were praised for their accomplishments as well as their capacity to change and grow in the quickly evolving field of education. Both established schools with a long history of success and newer establishments that have achieved impressive advancements in recent years were honored.

As the event came to an end, it served as evidence of how education can influence people’s futures and propel society forward. Participants departed with a fresh resolve to further excellence in West Bengal’s educational system after being inspired by the day’s festivities.

Priyanka Dutta