The DAV Centre for Academic Excellence organized a three-day National Conference for its prestigious School Heads, titled "āhvān: Catapulting Growth through Mindful Leadership," from October 3 to 5, 2024, in Panna, Madhya Pradesh. The event brought together esteemed leaders from 137 DAV schools across India, aiming to inspire mindful leadership and innovation in education.

The conference began with blessings from Sh. Punam Suri, President, DAVCMC. Dr. Nisha Peshin, Director (Academics), DAVCAE, DAVCMC, Dr. V. Singh & Mr. V. K. Chopra, Directors (Public Schools), DAVCMC inaugurated the Conference by lighting the lamp, followed by a welcome song and Kathak performance by DAV Alumni. In her inaugural address, Dr. Peshin emphasized the importance of a clear vision beyond academic excellence, urging leaders to engage collaboratively with students, teachers, and parents.

Subsequent sessions addressed key themes, including "Managing Human Emotions" led by Dr. Joseph Emmanuel, Chief Executive and Secretary of CISCE, which focused on personalized learning, and "Apt Use of Technology" by Dr. Aruna Suresh, AI expert, highlighting responsible tech-integration in schools.

Notable discussions included action research as a tool for school development, and a School Leader’s self-growth, led by Dr. Preeti V. Mishra from CIE, DU and Dr. Kashyapi Awasthi from NUEPA. They advocated involving the entire school community in research initiatives. The introduction of a School Internship Program by DAVCAE aimed to empower students by providing real-world experience, thus helping them in making well-informed career choices. A session on Cyber security in Schools by Mr. Santosh Wagh, underlined fostering a cyber-safe environment in schools. Pertinent concerns were voiced during panel discussions with experts after each session. The conference was successful in rejuvenating school leaders for future challenges.