AFS
Queens’ College is an AFS member school since 2014 AFS Intercultural Programs is a global not-for-profit network that provides intercultural learning opportunities to help people develop knowledge, skills and understanding needed to create a just and peaceful world.
Through international exchange programs, educational initiatives, volunteerism and advocacy, they empower young people from all backgrounds with essential global skills and the passion for making a difference.
Intercultural exposure and learning are provided to qualifying students to enable them to develop into global citizens. They are exposed to local, national and international events and get opportunities to reside in different scenarios and cultures. They are trained to represent India and their own school as ambassadors who uphold the banner of our intrinsic values. The students through these experiences move ahead to learn essential global skills needed to live, learn, work and contribute to society fruitfully.
QCians Embark on AFS Year-Long Exchange Scholarship Journey
September, 2024
We are proud to announce the selection of two outstanding students, Aditi Verulkar and Adwita Lal from Grade XI, for the prestigious AFS Year Long Scholarship Program 2024-25. Aditi has headed to Rome, Italy, on September 6, 2024. Adwita will join the Turkey program in Adana, starting her journey on September 13, 2024. Their selection marks a proud moment for Queens’ College as they embark on a global learning adventure.
Queens' College Student Explores Cutting-Edge STEM Innovations in Brazil
September, 2024
Shreya Patwari, a Grade XII student, was awarded a prestigious scholarship for the AFS Global STEM Program in Brazil, an exclusive opportunity extended to only 28 students globally. During her time in Brazil, Shreya immersed herself in advanced STEM activities.
Her experience included exploring renewable energy innovations in Natal, engaging in field trips to the Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, the International Institute of Physics, and the Brain Institute. Through hands-on activities and collaborative projects with Brazilian students, Shreya’s journey led her to a profound understanding of global citizenship, transcending borders and fostering a sense of unity among all people.
Vaishnavi Patidar : Selected for AFS STEM Program-2023 (EGYPT)
‘Arise, awake and stop not till the goal is achieved’
We are thrilled to share the exceptional achievement of Vaishnavi Patidar, a student studying in grade XI at Queens’ College Indore, in being selected for the prestigious AFS STEM Program. The program is a fully funded scholarship opportunity that offers participants the chance to study in Egypt for one month from July 18, 2023 to August 17, 2023. Vaishnavi’s selection is a testament to her academic prowess and dedication to the field of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).
Queens’ College Indore has long been renowned for nurturing bright and talented individuals, and Vaishnavi Patidar is a prime example of the institution’s commitment to academic excellence. She has consistently demonstrated a strong interest and passion for STEM subjects, securing top grades in her studies and actively participating in science-related extracurricular activities.
After a rigorous selection process that included academic evaluations, personal interviews, and a thorough assessment of her motivation and cultural adaptability, Vaishnavi emerged as one of the 30 exceptional students chosen for the program from various countries worldwide. This is a significant achievement, as the competition is intense and only the brightest and most promising young minds are selected.
By studying in Egypt, Vaishnavi will have the chance to engage with cutting-edge research, collaborate with like-minded international peers, and gain a global perspective on scientific advancements. The program’s one-month duration ensures an intensive and transformative experience, during which Vaishnavi will participate in a combination of academic workshops, research projects, and cultural exchange activities. This will enable her to not only broaden her academic horizons but also foster cross-cultural understanding and open-mindedness.
AFS Exchange Students to Jodhpur
April 10 to 17, 2023
The students of Queens’ College under the aegis of AFS visited institute of Rajmata Krishna Kumari Girls Public School and experienced their hospitality for a week from April 10 to 17, 2023 at the eminent Jodhpur Cultural Exchange Programme. The visit was very productive in every perspective and created the most cherished moments .
The enchanting sceneries and supportive mentors made each day, very exciting and full of great learnings.
The students were taken on a tour of the magnificent city including sight seeing of the gigantic forts- Mehrangarh and Umaid Palace, followed by, Indian Map Service and the very fascinating Pal Haveli.
There was first hand learning involving the different processes involved in Map making, calcium carbonate manufacturing and the dying of clothes.The Queens explored the exotic Rajasthani cuisine and unique traditions of Lehraiya and bandhaniya, imbibing life skills of patience.It’s true that beautiful things need time to bloom. Presence of other schools provided verbal confabulations and bonding with the boarders. The vising students got opportunity to showcase their skills in diversified fields like shooting, squash, tie and dye. There will always be gratitude for such an enriching experience. Thanks from the AFS TEAM JODHPUR and the escort teacher Ms. Sangeeta Upadhyay.
AFS Domestic Inter-Cultural Exchange Students
April 16 to 23, 2023
“In a country as diverse as ours, we must build bridges of understanding and mutual respect amongst various cultures to attain respect at international platforms.”
To strengthen intercultural bonds, Queens’ College, Indore conducted an Intercultural Exchange Program from April 16 to 23, 2023 and hosted a group of 11 students of Classes VI-IX from Rajmata Krishna Kumari Girls’ Public School, Jodhpur, Rajasthan.
The exchange program gave the students an opportunity to experience the culture of Queens’ College. A cultural program was organized to welcome the exchange students. They enjoyed music and dance renditions, learned various intricacies of swimming, and tried their hand at various forms of art and craft.
In addition to these activities, the students were taken to see some of the rich heritage and culture of Indore. They visited notable places such as Lalbagh Palace and Rajwada Palace and also experienced spirituality at Mahakaleshwar temple and Sandipani Aashram in Ujjain. The beauty of Jahaj Mahal at Mandu mesmerized them. The students were also taken on an adventurous trek to Ralamandal and enjoyed nature walks at Bilwali Chanda. They also indulged in shopping at Phoenix Citadel Mall and tasted some scrumptious delicacies at Chappan Dukkan and Sarafa. The group also had the opportunity to see the beautiful Jain temples of Gomath Giri and Hinkargiri. During their stay, they enthralled our students by presenting the astounding dance form of Rajasthan.
Finally, the exchange program ended with a farewell dinner hosted by our Principal Ms. Geeta Somasekharan at Shreemaya. The students left feeling euphoric and grateful for the enriching experiences they Thad during their stay at Queens’ College.
National Level Culminating Point of Victory for Queens' College
September 22, 2022
Queens’ College, Indore claims victory in a virtual National level Inter-school music competition ‘SWAR SADHANA-AFS Music Fest’ for the classes VI to XII organized by Mann School, Delhi under the aegis of AFS India on Tuesday 20 September 2022.
There were 10 different categories for Junior Group (VI-VIII) and Senior Group (IX-XII) like Indian Folk and Regional Group Song Competition, Hindi Patriotic Group Song, Tabla Solo, Western Solo Singing, Western Band and Western Instrumental Trio Competition. 35 renowned schools from all over India participated and 145 presentations were selected across different categories.
Students of Queens’ College, Indore enthusiastically participated in 5 different categories and emerged victorious in 4 categories:-
1. 1st Position in Western Band (Senior)
* Bhuvi Upadhyay
* Avani Jain
* Jitisha Kandhari
* Disha Chouhan
* Ashmika Talreja
* Priyanshi Dhuman
* Priyanshi Mishra
* Vaishnavi Sharma
Subhashree Dalai
2. 1st Position in Western Solo Singing (Senior)
* Bhuvi Upadhyay
3. 2nd Position in Western Solo Singing (Junior),
* Aditi Agrawal
4. 3rd Position in Hindi Patriotic Group
* Song (Junior).
* Siddhi Narware
* Sakina Jamali
* Awadhi Rai
* Rini Chourasia
* Aditi Agrawal
* Pawani Tiwari
* Nehal Jain
Principal, Ms. Geetha Somasekharan congratulated the students on their sterling performance at National Level Interschool Competition and praised the efforts of the teacher incharges; Ms Pragya Patrikar, Mr Vivek Rishi, Mr Pankaj Yadav and Mr Mrigank Yadav for their able guidance.
AFS GYSD Community Service - NGO Visit
Jun 17, 2023
The students of Queens’ College, in classes XI and XII, recently participated in a community service project aimed at providing educational and recreational opportunities for children living in nearby slums. The students visited Manavta ki Pehchan Education Centre, an NGO working in various fields of service in Indore. Their main objective is teaching children in slums.
The students organized and conducted several activities for the children, including origami, word power games, pictionary, and paper bag making. These activities aimed at fostering creativity, critical thinking, and teamwork skills. The students also distributed stationery items and chocolates to the children, which helped to motivate them towards education and learning.
The event was a great success, and the students were thrilled to see the joy on the faces of the children. They were able to interact with the children, learn about their lives and struggles, and help to make a difference in their day.
This service project was a valuable experience for our students, helping them to develop empathy, social awareness, and leadership skills. It also gave them a chance to give back to the community and make a positive impact on the lives of others.
AFS Student Exchange Program
March 14, 2023
The best way to learn is to go beyond limits and set out own rules
The students of Queens’ College have been enthusiastically participating in AFS programs and activities. Our students have been enrolling for the Short Term Exchange Program.
We feel extremely happy to inform that Vaishnavi Mahajan of XI D got selected for the “Winter in Italy Program” by AFS Italy. It is a 2 months scholastic program and host family placement wherein the students get an opportunity to explore the academics and culture of the host country. Vaishnavi is gaining life time experience in Italy which inturn will evolve her as an enlightened global citizen.
Furthermore Naqiya Hashmi of IX C got selected for the Turkey Short Term Program. It was a 4 weeks of school and 2 weeks of semester break program in Adana, southern city of Turkey. Naqiya is thrilled to explore and experience cultural differences and enjoyed extracurricular activities.
These exchange programs not only build confidence, and broaden perspectives, but also enhance critical thinking and problem-solving skills in students.
It also provides intercultural education and language learning components that are valued by universities and employers.
These programs have not only united two school groups but also build up friendship between two countries.
Queens claim victory in Dance Competition
February, 2022
Queens’ College stood among top three among thirty participants in the prestigious National Dance Competition organised by AFS. It was the semi classical group performance with the theme Uday- The Rising. The dancing divas of the school won hearts with a tribute to legendary women achievers Shri Savitri Bai Phule and Fatima Sheikh. The grace and the choreography added dimensions to the victory. Kudos to the budding talents and best wishes for their future endeavours.
Peace Program at Queens' College Under the banner of AFS
August,2019
To enhance the understanding and acceptance of different cultures of the world, one student from Italy is at Queens’ college to participate in the peace program under the banner of AFS for a short term.
A wide spectrum of activities is planned from classroom learning to community service. Outings in Indore and places nearby are planned to give exposure to the student to understand the culture and tradition of India.The student displays a keen interest in folk art, Indian dancing and Hindi classes.
An enriching real life experience of varied cuisine, culture, attire and language is given to the student. In all it will be a reinforced learning in a short duration of time.
Trip of NSLI-S students to Mandu and Traditional Dinner by ITC
August 5 & 6,2018
The NSL-S Summer Students Visited Mandu & Maheshwar on 5 & 6 Augusst , 2018. Enroute to Mandu the children enjoyed Echo Point , visited Jahaj Mahal and Sunset Point. The next day students went to Maheshwar enjoying the Narmada River ride on a boat , visited the Rewa Saree Centre, saw the temple and Devi Ahilya Bai’s Palace.
The students in traditional attire attended the welcome dinner at ITC on August 8, 2018 and introduced themselves in hindi and sang “Sare Jahan Se Achha “ to a mesmerizing audience.
Visit of NSLI-S Students to Jimmy Mc.Gilligan Center for Sustainable Living
August, 2018
Queens College NSLI –S Programme Students visited the Jimmy Mc Gilligan Center and learned and experienced how to live in harmony with nature. The students on August-4,2018 visited the 2 KW Hybrid Power Station and saw Janak Palta Mam’s House ‘ A Feature of Sustainable Development ‘. The students loved the experience and well impressed by the endeavor of Mam Janak Palta who is making sustainable and waste-less living a reality.
Traditional Dinner at Queens' Campus for AFS
July 21,2018
A Traditional Dinner was hosted in Queens’ College on July 21, 2018 for NSLI-S and NSLI-Y Students.
10 students from different parts of America are in Queens’ for Hindi Summer Learning Programme under the badge of AFS.
9 students from Shishukunj International School and 7 students from the Emeralds Hieghts International school along with their host parents attended the dinner. All 26 American Students came for the dinner decked in traditional attire . The girls in sarees and boys in kurta pajymas. The students enjoyed the traditional extravaganza of Dal Bati.
After the dinner the students danced to the music of hindi songs enjoying the rest of the evening.
Queens' Hosted American Students Under NSLI-S Programme-2018
July 8, 2018
Queens’ College is euphoric to host 10 American Students under the aegis of NSLI-S Programme. The students are in the Queens Campus for a Hindi Learning Experience promoted by US State Department for 6 weeks. An experience that engenders wonders and involves cultural splendor students get an experience of intercultural learning living with their host families.
Hindi Learning Classes are organized for the students and comfortable home stay is provided by the host families. The host parents and sisters go out of the way to make their stay in India comfortable.
AFS Regional Exchange Programme Between Queens' and Sunbeam School, Lahartara, Varanasi
April 7,2018 to April-12,2018
“Discover a new culture, a new language, you will make friends from all parts of the world, friends for life. A time in which you’ll grow up and know yourself as a person, you’ll change completely in the best way possible, you’ll learn things about yourself that you didn’t know before, your limits and capabilities”.
Catering to this motto in mind an AfS student exchange took place with Sunbeam school ,Lahartara ,Varanasi and 9 Students and 1 Escort teacher Miss Vartika Puri were a part of the exchange with QUEENS. The Students arrived on 7th April met the Principal Mrs. Renu Gurnani in her office . They were conferred a traditional welcome of garland and tikka. Evening- an interactive session on Indore with Mrs. Deepika Goel .
8th April morning –English class, Evening –a traditional extravaganza to Nakharali Dhani intermingling with Queens residential Campus students.
9th April –Attended school with the morning assembly, enrolled themselves in art classes learning madhubani art and in craft work make a 3rd d face of MAA durga. In the afternoon indulged in sports and hostel coaching and in the evening enjoyed at Sarafa indulging inmouth watering savories enjoying local flavors of the famous dahi wada,Jalebi with QRC students.
10th April- they attended school for 2 hrs then visiting Iskon temple and Mahakal,Ujjain.
11th April -After attending school the Sunbeam students left on a city tour visiting rajbada,lal bag palace ,Annapurna mandir and then in the evening engaged in a cultural night and a traditional dinner thereafter.
12th April had a fruitful meeting with the management the students went to C21 mall and chappan and late in the evening departed to Varanasi.
The students not only got to learn a different culture but also got a chance to study in school know about the school culture.
” Cherised Moments ” – Sunbeam Lahartara , Varanasi
These photos are a gateway to our memories;
they’re the only remnants of things we no longer see:
The twinkling stars at the peak of twilight’
The days we spent together and laughed our hearts out loud.
Reminding us, talking and interacting and the list remains endless; from class rooms to dormitories, the night out at Sarafa or enjoying at Nakharali Dhani, the history of Indore to the magnificent Lal Bagh Palace, loved the outings and dancing under the stars,the learning of 3’d art and Madhubani like never before. Thank you dear Queens for the memory of a lifetime,
We shall forever remember you, and these moments shall be embedded in our hearts.
Queens College Indore gave us a lot of memories to be cherished forever. We were welcomed by the Principal Mrs.Renu Gurnani, indulged in a tour of the whole school. Our Visit to the cultural hubs of Indore are worth remembering like Nakharali Dhani, LalBagh, Kanch Mandir, Khajrana. Indore echoes the same spiritual fervor like Varanasi. Most importantly the cultural night which was held in our honor and the traditional dinner was sumptuous. Thank you Queens it was indeed heartwarming.
-Shweta Jaiswal.
What I loved about the student AFS exchange with Queens’ College:
- Visiting school with seniors
• Making new friends
• Visit to Mahakal and Indorama Mandir
• Everyones hospitality
• Sarafa and LalBagh experience
-Snidgh
QueensCollegeIndore was indeed hospitable, such warmth and love made us so comfortable every outing was planned perfectly we return to Varanasi as more confident individual with so many friends for life.
-VartikaPuri
Visit of Students from Denmark
March 22, 2018
16 Students of BA Education and two teachers from Denmark visited Queens’ College to understand the teaching style and method of Indian Education System. They exhibit their interest in English, Math, Science, Social Science and Art & Craft.
The Denmark team was in Indore for 14 days educational tour to understand the teaching pedagogy as they wish to pursue their career in teaching.
They were introduced to the different teaching methodology of our school and undivided support and guidance was imparted. Art and Craft activity was planned in the junior auditorium with the help of Mrs. Chhaya Shinde and Mr. Anil Panwar. Few students attended English, Math, Science and Social Science Classes. The English Class was taken by Mrs. Ankita Mittal and students received an enriching experience in Math by Mr. Harshal Supekar & Mrs. Sangeeta Upadhyay. Science and Social Science Classes were respectively taken by Ms. Harsha Punjabi and Ms. Shweta Soni.
Previously they have visited Daly College, Shri Ram Cenntinal School and Indus World School where they interacted with the teachers. The delegation was gratified and thankful to the institution for the reinforced experientia.
Volunteers from AFS Hungary Visit Queens' College
October 7, 2017
Under the agies of the AFS banner Hungary volunteer programme took place in Queens’ College Indore. Thirteen volunteers had come from Hungary and Queens’ College hosted it. Ms.Karac, Sonyne, Katalin,Hajdu from Budapest with the aim of exposure and experience of Indian Culture for a short duration of time to develop mutual understanding.
Ms.Katalin was living with a host family visiting different schools of Indore with her team members. Queens’ had organized a traditional extravaganza involving the volunteers in Indian painting art Mandana,Indian dance and a traditional lunch. They also visited places like Sarafa,Apollo tower, C21 mall etc.
The AFS volunteers were elated and said that “This experience gave them a better perspective of the Indian culture, habits,norms and the Indian way of living”.
Inter State Exchange Program to Sunbeam, Lahartara, Varanasi
December 7,2017 to December 17,2017
10 girls of Queens’ College , Indore along with the hostel warden Ma’am Shweta Martin started their 23 hour train journey from Indore to Varanasi on December 7,2017.
The students were received by the school Principal and were given a heart – warming welcome . Then they had a meeting with the Principal and discussed about their itinerary for the following days. They went to some nearby temples and walked through the city on same day. Students visited different places like Sarnath , museum and also the famous Kashivishvanath Temple during their stay. They also tasted different cuisines and enjoyed traditional food on the streets of Varanasi. The taste of Paan is still fresh in their memory.
It was a very joyful and great experience . They learnt many good things and met new people and learnt about them and the life of Varanasi. Looking forward to more such experiences.
Experience of the student who participated in Varanasi Exchange Program. Under the aegis of AFS
I have always wanted to be an exchange student my whole high school life . I read about Intercultural exchange program and pretty soon I was selected. I was so excited and happy, researched about Varanasi in books and internet and was soon packing for the journey to begin.
AFS gave me this great opportunity to explore this beautiful land of temples and ghats . My journey commenced in December , 2017 with lots excitement , hope and happiness.
We were welcomed with open arms at sunbeam School. We had interactive sessions with the Dean , the Principal , the coordinators and the council members . We visited different universities the Sanskrit university , Banaras Hindu University . I was fascinated by the Artifacts preserved in the beautifully museums.
My favorite was going to the local ares of Banaras . I was mesmerized to see the culture and heritage of Banaras which lies in the narrow streets , food stalls and temples. I can never forget the most astonishing and ravishing part of my exchange.
Subah – e – Banaras . I could never imagine early morning to be so good. Sunbeam School, Varanasi, Laharatara treated me and my friend like other own student in another part of the country. Every one was warm open and never hesitant to help.
It was the best time of my life and I will always remember how choosing to go out and discover What the my own country has in store for me was life changing and will be something I will always cherish.
Thank you AFS and QUEENS’ COLLEGE for giving this wonderful opportunity .
Exchange Student.
Urvashi Lalwani.
Regional Exchange Programme Between Queens' College and RKKS, Jodhpur
December 16, 2015 to December 24,2015
The first exchange of Regional Exchange Program was conducted from Dec 13 to 21, 2015 between Queens’ College, Indore and Rajmata Krishna Kumari Girls ‘ Public School , Jodhpur. 10 girls along with a teacher from RKKS Jodhpur visited Queens’ College from Dec.16 to Dec 24 , 2015 and in the same way 10 girls along with Ms. Shweta Jain from Queens’ College, Indore visited RKKS, Jodhpur from Dec 13 to 21 , 2015.
The students from RKKS , Jodhpur started the exchange with academic classes on the first two days followed by participating in various activities like playing games, learning dances. They were also part of the annual sports day of the school. They visited many places like Ujjain , Janapav , Sarafa , Nakhralidhani . They were welcomed with carol singing and traditional dinner .
The exchange gave the opportunity to the participating schools to share the heritage and values of Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh.