Bennett University Unveils 2026 Summer School Program for High School Students, Led by Harvard Alumnus
Bennett University has announced its Summer School Program for 2026, targeting students from Classes 9 to 12. This six-day residential program aims to foster personal growth, confidence, and practical life skills within a structured campus environment. Organized in collaboration with the Centre for Innovation & Entrepreneurship (CIE) and the Bennett Hatchery Foundation, the program integrates academic learning with entrepreneurship and personal development.
Overview of the Summer School Program
The Summer School Program is designed to engage young learners in real-world challenges and leadership exercises. Participants will follow a disciplined routine that prepares them for future academic and professional success. The program emphasizes a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical application, ensuring a comprehensive learning experience.
Key Highlights
- Duration: 6-day fully residential program
- Focus Areas: Leadership, entrepreneurship, and personal growth
- Activities: Real-world problem-solving and venture-building exposure
- Daily Structure: A balanced routine combining academics and physical training
- Mentorship: Interaction with industry experts, founders, and mentors
- Cohort Size: Highly selective with only 30 seats available
Program Leadership
The program is led by Prof. Sidharth Shankar Tripathy, a Harvard alumnus with over 30 years of experience in entrepreneurship and higher education. He has founded global ventures such as Brandgain and Skillizen, operating in over 70 countries. His background in building entrepreneurship ecosystems at leading institutions adds significant value to the program. In addition to his academic credentials, he is an ultra-marathoner and has completed the Everest Base Camp trek, emphasizing discipline and resilience.
Four Pillars of Transformation
The curriculum is structured around four transformation pillars, each targeting a specific dimension of student development:
| Pillar | Focus Area | Key Learning |
|---|---|---|
| Leading Self (The Architect) | Personal Development | Identity, ethics, personal branding |
| Leading Others (The Diplomat) | Leadership Skills | Negotiation, leadership, conflict resolution |
| Making a Billion (The Founder) | Entrepreneurship | Venture creation, scalability |
| Built to Last (The Ironclad) | Physical & Mental Strength | Fitness, grit, mental toughness |
This framework ensures that students actively practice leadership, decision-making, and resilience in real-time scenarios.
Signature Experiences
Participants will engage in unique, high-impact activities designed to extend learning beyond the classroom:
- Iron & Ink Journal: A dual-purpose journal for tracking business insights and personal growth.
- Midnight Challenge: A team-based problem-solving exercise conducted under pressure.
- Black-Tie Investor Pitch: Students present business ideas to a panel, simulating real startup environments.
Program Outcomes
The program aims to deliver both tangible outputs and intangible skills that will shape students’ future trajectories. Key benefits include:
| Benefit Area | Details |
|---|---|
| Personal Development | 5-year life goal plan with action strategy |
| Digital Awareness | Personalized digital footprint audit |
| Branding | Personal branding roadmap |
| Business Exposure | Live pitching experience to investors |
| Corporate Learning | Simulation of boardroom meetings |
| Leadership | Crisis management and negotiation exposure |
| Certification | Certificate + Letter of Recommendation |
| Rewards | Cash prizes up to ₹1.6 lakh |
| Recognition | “No-Quit” Certificate for resilience |
| Networking | Access to Harvard alumni, CEOs, and founders |
Daily Schedule
The daily routine is designed to instill discipline while balancing learning and recovery. Each day begins early with physical training and progresses through academic, collaborative, and reflective sessions.
| Time | Focus Area | Experience |
|---|---|---|
| 05:30 – 07:00 | Built to Last | NCC-inspired physical training focused on stamina and discipline |
| 09:00 – 12:00 | Making a Billion | Venture ideation, business model creation, and startup simulations |
| 13:30 – 16:30 | Leading Others | Leadership exercises, negotiation drills, and team simulations |
| 17:00 – 18:30 | Recovery | Sports, yoga, and unstructured playtime |
| 19:30 – 21:00 | Leading Self | Reflection sessions, mentorship discussions, and curated films |
This structure ensures that students experience a full spectrum of growth—physical, intellectual, and emotional—every day.
Certificates and Recognition
Participants will receive recognition based on their engagement and performance:
- Certificate of Accomplishment for all participants
- No-Quit Certificate (Elite Badge) for students completing all milestones
- Letter of Recommendation for standout performers
Safety, Accommodation, and Campus Life
Bennett University emphasizes creating a safe and supportive residential environment for participants. Students will be accommodated in twin-sharing hostel rooms, with separate facilities for boys and girls. The campus is equipped with 24/7 security and supervision, along with experienced wardens and support staff. Healthcare needs are addressed through access to a wellness center managed by Max Healthcare, ensuring prompt medical support if required. Familiar food outlets such as Domino’s and Subway are also available on campus.
Learning from Experts
The program features a diverse mix of trainers and mentors, providing exposure to multiple perspectives. Participants will interact with defense instructors and commando trainers, focusing on discipline and physical endurance, as well as ultra-athletes who share insights into high-performance living. On the professional side, students will engage with corporate CEOs, industry leaders, and startup founders, gaining firsthand understanding of business, leadership, and innovation.
Eligibility and Program Details
The program is open to students of Classes 9 to 12, with a limited number of seats available. The program is scheduled from June 8 to June 13, 2026, and is highly selective.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Eligibility | Students of Classes 9 to 12 |
| Program Dates | 8th – 13th June 2026 |
| Duration | 6 days, 5 nights |
| Seats Available | Only 30 students |
| Selection | Highly selective |
Fee Structure
The total program fee is ₹46,256 (inclusive of GST), covering all major components of the experience.
| Component | Included |
|---|---|
| Accommodation | 6 days, 5 nights (twin-sharing) |
| Meals | All meals during the program |
| Learning | Workshops, simulations, and study materials |
| Mentorship | Access to trainers, experts, and industry leaders |
| Certification | Certificates and program resources |
Transport assistance, including airport or railway station pick-up and drop, can be arranged on request at an additional cost.
Application Process
Given the limited number of seats and the selective nature of the program, interested students are encouraged to apply early. For applications and further details, students and parents can contact the program coordinators:
- Mr. Vivek Gautam – +91 81307 52448
- Mr. Raja Jha – +91 89104 61358
- Email: [email protected]
For more details, visit the official website: Bennett University Summer School Program.
About Bennett University
Established in 2016 under the aegis of the Times Group, Bennett University carries forward a legacy of over 186 years rooted in trust, knowledge, and public service. The university focuses on building future-ready leaders through a curriculum that blends academic rigor with real-world application. Its emphasis on research, innovation, and interdisciplinary learning makes it a strong platform for initiatives like this summer school, which aim to shape students beyond traditional education.
As reported by www.timesnownews.com.
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Published on 2026-06-24 11:40:00 • By FAME Delivered News Desk
