In a dazzling display of intellectual prowess, over 300 of Odisha’s brightest young minds gathered for the third annual CSM Synapse quiz competition. The event, which has quickly become a cornerstone of academic excellence in the region, saw an unprecedented turnout with 43 schools, 154 teams, and 308 students participating in what many are calling the most exciting edition yet.
As the sun rose on Thursday, August 22, 2024, the air buzzed with anticipation. Students from across Odisha, armed with facts and fueled by curiosity, converged to test their mettle in a battle of wits. The competition, organized by CSM Tech in collaboration with Quizcraft Global, introduced a revolutionary two-tier structure this year, elevating the challenge and excitement to new heights.
Emerging victorious from this intellectual gauntlet were Purbasha Falguni and Pratyaksh Rastogi of Loyola International School. The dynamic duo clinched the championship title and a grand prize of INR 50,000, their faces beaming with pride as they hoisted the winner’s trophy. “It’s like a dream come true,” Purbasha exclaimed, her voice trembling with excitement. “We’ve been preparing for months, and to see it all pay off is just incredible.”
But the real winner of the day was education itself. Adityanath Mubayi, the renowned quizmaster and head of research for ‘Kaun Banega Crorepati,’ who presided over the event, noted the palpable enthusiasm for learning. “What I’ve witnessed today is nothing short of inspiring,” Mubayi remarked. “These young minds are not just absorbing information; they’re engaging with it, challenging it, and applying it in innovative ways. This is the future of education.”
The competition was fierce but friendly. Teams from DAV Unit VIII, Bhubaneswar secured the second runner-up position, while other finalists from Odisha Adarsha Vidyalaya, Indo English School, Delhi Public School, and Deepika English Medium School showcased exceptional talent, keeping the audience on the edge of their seats until the very end.
Behind the scenes, the event was a logistical marvel. Lagna Panda, CHRO of CSM Tech, shared insights into the planning process. “Coordinating an event of this scale was challenging, but seeing the impact it has on these students makes it all worthwhile,” Panda said. “We’re not just hosting a quiz; we’re nurturing the next generation of thinkers and innovators.”
The impact of CSM Synapse extends far beyond the competition floor. Teachers accompanying the teams spoke of the motivation it provides to students year-round. Priya Mishra, a teacher from one of the participating schools, observed, “Ever since CSM Synapse began, I’ve noticed a marked increase in students’ interest in current affairs and general knowledge. They’re reading more, discussing complex topics, and developing critical thinking skills. It’s transforming our classrooms.”
As the event concluded, the air was thick with a sense of achievement and possibility. Students exchanged contact information, formed new friendships, and already began planning for next year’s competition. “This is more than just a quiz,” said Ayan Senapati, a participant from DAV Unit VIII. “It’s a celebration of knowledge, a chance to meet like-minded peers, and an opportunity to push our limits.”
Looking to the future, CSM Tech has ambitious plans for Synapse. “We’re exploring the possibility of expanding to an inter-state level,” revealed Pradyut Mohan Dash, CTO of CSM Tech. “Our vision is to create a nationwide platform that celebrates intellectual curiosity and academic excellence.”
As the sun set on CSM Synapse 2024, one thing was clear: this was more than just a quiz competition. It was a glimpse into a future where knowledge is celebrated, curiosity is rewarded, and young minds are empowered to shape the world. In the words of a beaming parent in the audience, “Today, we didn’t just witness a competition. We witnessed the birth of tomorrow’s leaders.”