Madurai school expo spotlights nutrition, student innovation

Madurai, Tamil Nadu — The Idhayam Expo 2026, a school-level exhibition focused on health and creativity, was held on [date] in Madurai, drawing participation from students across multiple institutions. The event was inaugurated by Mathumitha R. Dharmesh, an entrepreneur, nutritionist, and wellness advocate, who addressed the gathering on the significance of balanced nutrition and healthy eating habits.

In her keynote, Dharmesh emphasised the role of early education in shaping lifelong dietary choices. She spoke about the rising incidence of lifestyle-related ailments among children and urged students to adopt nutritious food habits. Her address was aimed at both students and teachers, stressing that awareness about food and health must begin at the school level.

Students from Pre-KG to Class VIII showcased a wide range of projects, reflecting their understanding of nutritional science, healthy cooking, and sustainable food practices. The projects were displayed across the venue, with young exhibitors explaining their models, charts, and experiments to visitors. The interactive format allowed parents and guests to engage directly with the students, encouraging curiosity and public speaking skills.

The expo also saw participation from several neighbouring schools, including V.H.N. Boys Higher Secondary School, V.H.N. Girls Higher Secondary School, T.S.M. Manickam Nadar-Janaki Ammal School, and V.H.N. Tholandi Manickam Nadar-Janaki Ammal Matriculation School. Teachers and students from these institutions visited the exhibition, making it a collaborative learning event beyond a single campus.

Organisers noted that the expo aimed not only to display academic projects but also to instil confidence in young learners. By presenting their work to an audience, students developed communication and presentation skills, which are essential for their overall development. The presence of parents and community members further reinforced the school's role in fostering holistic education.

Events like Idhayam Expo 2026 are part of a broader effort by educational institutions in Tamil Nadu to integrate practical knowledge with classroom learning. Nutrition, in particular, has become a focal point in recent years, given the growing concerns over junk food consumption and its impact on children's health. Schools are increasingly partnering with health professionals to bring expert perspectives into their curricula.

Mathumitha R. Dharmesh, who runs wellness initiatives in the region, praised the schools for taking proactive steps. She noted that exhibitions such as these help normalise conversations about health and provide a platform for students to express their ideas. She also encouraged parents to reinforce healthy eating habits at home, complementing what children learn at school.

The expo concluded with a vote of thanks, and prizes were distributed for outstanding projects. While the focus was on nutrition, the event also celebrated creativity and teamwork. Students, teachers, and visitors left with a renewed understanding of how small choices in daily diet can lead to significant long-term benefits.

Educational experts believe that such hands-on experiences are vital in shaping responsible citizens. By learning about nutrition early, students are more likely to make informed decisions later in life. The Idhayam Expo 2026 stands as an example of how schools can go beyond textbooks to address real-world issues.