HPS students gain global exposure

Metro India News | Hyderabad : Students of The Hyderabad Public School (HPS) returned from Australia with new perspectives on leadership, sustainability and global citizenship after participating in the 58th Round Square International Conference (RSIC) 2026, hosted by Barker College. The conference brought together around 1,200 delegates from 30 countries and more than 150 schools, offering students an opportunity to exchange ideas, understand different cultures and forge international friendships.

The programme centred on the six Round Square IDEALS — Internationalism, Democracy, Environmentalism, Adventure, Leadership and Service. Opening ceremonies, keynote addresses and interactive Baraza sessions encouraged participants to discuss shared responsibilities, cross-cultural understanding and collaborative problem-solving.

The Sydney Urban Challenge was among the key attractions, testing students' teamwork, decision-making, navigation and budgeting skills as they travelled across the city using public transport. A clothes-sorting initiative highlighted sustainable practices and community service, while a trek offered insights into Australia's conservation efforts.

Cultural evenings and Baraza talent shows allowed students to showcase their creativity and individual identities through music, performances and storytelling, while appreciating the diversity of participating schools.

The educational experience continued in Cairns, where the HPS delegation explored the Kuranda rainforest, learnt about Indigenous Australian culture and encountered native wildlife. A visit to the Great Barrier Reef provided an opportunity to understand marine ecosystems, coral diversity and the need to protect fragile natural habitats.

The experience helped students develop greater independence, adaptability and confidence while learning to work with peers from different backgrounds. It also reinforced the importance of empathetic leadership, service and collective action.

HPS provides students with opportunities to attend international conferences and participate in learning beyond the classroom. The school views such exposure as an important step in broadening horizons and preparing young people to engage with an increasingly interconnected world.

The delegation returned with lasting friendships, cherished memories and lessons in responsible leadership and global citizenship that extend beyond academics.