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The Ahmedabad Grand Challenges Programme offers an opportunity for grade X, XI, and XII students to immerse themselves in a vibrant academic environment and experience the culture of a research-oriented liberal education university. The initiative cultivates an interdisciplinary and research-driven mindset, preparing participants for high-calibre undergraduate studies through classroom and experiential learning.
Students explore the dynamic city of Ahmedabad as their living laboratory. They investigate the diverse social and cultural factors shaping contemporary urban life through a blend of academic coursework, interactive projects, and field visits. The curriculum is structured to foster research thinking and provide hands-on exposure to real-world issues.
The eight-day immersive experience is carefully curated to broaden students' horizons across various academic disciplines and nurture their imagination.
The 2026 edition will feature three specialised themes, empowering participants to customise their learning journey by selecting tracks aligned with their interests and career aspirations.
A day at the Ahmedabad Grand Challenges Programme
Learning Outcomes
By the end of the eight-day programme, students will be able to:
Programme Structure
The eight-day intensive programme comprises masterclasses, hands-on problem-solving activities, immersion in local and University cultures, and various skill-building sessions such as 3D printing and critical thinking. They will get to work in a maker studio directly connected to their grand challenge. Additionally, students can attend expert-led special sessions across different disciplines and programmes, which will complement the core masterclasses.
The programme's focal point is the thematic studio centered on a grand challenge. Students will collaborate in small groups on real-world projects requiring interdisciplinary inputs and diverse methodologies. These projects encourage analytical thinking and the application of theoretical concepts to design practical solutions for pressing problems. Furthermore, students will develop their ability to articulate and present their ideas effectively to a broader audience using suitable media tools. Faculty mentors will support each group through guidance and advice throughout the project.
The 2026 programme will comprise three specialised tracks, allowing students to select the track that best aligns with their interests and aspirations. This aims to deepen their engagement and expertise within their chosen area.
Track 1: Science, Technology, and Innovation
Explore how science and technology shape our world and drive future possibilities. This track encourages students to apply scientific inquiry and technological creativity to develop innovative responses to complex challenges. By blending rigorous science with emerging technologies, participants will gain a future-ready perspective that prepares them to excel in higher studies, cutting-edge careers, and entrepreneurial ventures.
Track 2: Humanities and Social Change
This track examines the human experience through the interconnected lenses of culture, history, politics, philosophy, and society. Students will learn to think critically about fundamental questions of ideas, identities, and communities while exploring how the humanities provide essential tools for understanding our rapidly evolving and complex world. The track emphasises developing perspectives that foster greater inclusivity and social awareness, preparing students to engage meaningfully with contemporary challenges through humanistic inquiry.
Track 3: Management, Enterprise, and Futures
Engage with the challenges of leadership and enterprise in uncertain times. This track explores how organisations and entrepreneurs can navigate complexity, respond creatively to pressing problems, and build resilient, sustainable futures. Through real-world examples and hands-on problem-solving, students will strengthen their ability to adapt, innovate, and design for impact in a rapidly changing world.
Hallmarks of the Ahmedabad Grand Challenges Programme
The Programme offers a unique opportunity for students to engage in a thematic studio focused on a grand challenge. It provides:
Eligibility Criteria and Application Process
A select cohort of 35 students per track will be carefully chosen from eligible applications. Students in Grades X, XI, and XII are invited to apply for this uniquely curated experience. Applicants should demonstrate a strong academic record along with a diverse range of co-curricular and extra-curricular interests. Shortlisted candidates may be invited for a one-on-one interview with our selection committee.
Programme Dates
May 30 – June 6, 2026
Programme Fee
If you have questions that have not already been answered here, you can write to us at/call on: grandchallenges@ahduni.edu.in | +91.79.61911405/01
Programme Overview
Student Testimonials
AGCP 2025
Highlights
Programme Mentors in the past years
Assistant Professor
School of Engineering and Applied Science
Senior Lecturer
Amrut Mody School of Management
Associate Professor
Global Centre for Environment and Energy
Assistant Professor
School of Arts and Sciences
Disciplinary Studio Facilitators
Professor
Senior Associate Dean, Graduate Programmes
Amrut Mody School of Management
CEO
VentureStudio
Assistant Professor
School of Arts and Sciences
Assistant Professor
School of Arts and Sciences
Associate Professor
School of Arts and Sciences
Assistant Professor
School of Arts and Sciences
Assistant Professor
School of Arts and Sciences
Assistant Professor
Amrut Mody School of Management
Assistant Professor
Amrut Mody School of Management
Associate Professor
School of Arts and Sciences
Associate Professor
Associate Dean, Sciences
School of Arts and Sciences
Assistant Professor
School of Arts and Sciences
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Ahmedabad Grand Challenges Programme?
The Ahmedabad Grand Challenges Programme is a unique programme designed for outstanding students of Grades X, XI, and XII to help them immerse in an academically rich environment and experience the culture and ethos of a liberal education-based University. Selected participants will get to spend eight days on the Ahmedabad University Campus and learn about the various disciplines on offer. The highlight of the Programme is the thematic studio based around a grand challenge. Each student will work on a real-life project in small groups. These projects will involve inputs from multiple disciplines and methods and require students to think analytically and apply a set of concepts to design a solution to a real-world problem.
How do you apply for the Ahmedabad Grand Challenges Programme?
You can apply to the Ahmedabad Grand Challenges Programme via the Ahmedabad University website or by clicking the link.
Is the Ahmedabad Grand Challenges Programme an online or offline event?
The Ahmedabad Grand Challenges Programme is a fully residential programme at the Ahmedabad University Campus.
What are the dates of the Ahmedabad Grand Challenges Programme?
The Ahmedabad Grand Challenges Programme will be held on May 30 - June 6, 2026.
What is the application fee for the Ahmedabad Grand Challenges Programme?
What does the programme fee include?
The programme fee is inclusive of the tuition fee, stationery, resource material and supplies, local excursions, accommodation, and all meal expenses.
Is scholarship/financial-aid available?
How does one apply for financial aid?
If you believe you are eligible for financial aid, please indicate the same on your application. You will also need to upload your family members’ latest income tax returns and other financial documents, if they are requested.
How is students’ financial need assessed for financial aid?
Students who apply for aid will have to submit the required documents as mentioned in the form for need-based evaluation of financial aid. The documents will be evaluated by an independent auditor that may involve an audit visit to your home. Additionally, the student and their family may be invited for an interaction to determine suitability for financial aid.
What is the programme schedule?
What is the last day for making the payment?
You will need to complete the entire payment within five days of receiving your Ahmedabad Grand Challenges Programme offer. For the extended deadline, you will need to make the payment within three days of receiving the offer.
Who are the mentors for the Ahmedabad Grand Challenges Programme?
Renowned faculty members from Ahmedabad University and visiting experts will be mentors in the Ahmedabad Grand Challenges Programme.
What are the criteria for selection to the Ahmedabad Grand Challenges Programme?
Your application will be evaluated on the basis of your academic performance (your mark sheet/s), your responses to the questions in the application, and your overall curricular and co-curricular profile. Selected candidates may also be invited for a personal interaction. We are looking for students who are curious and open to learning new things.
What subject background is required for participating in the Ahmedabad Grand Challenges Programme?
There is no binding on the background of students. As long as you are curious and open to learning, you will be a great fit for the Programme.
Are students appearing for their Class 12 board examinations in 2025 eligible for the Programme?
No, students who have completed their Class 12 board examinations are not eligible for the Programme.
Is there a waitlist?
Yes, there is a waitlist. Students who are on the waitlist will be informed, and as vacancies open up, they will be contacted for admission.
How will the candidates be notified about their admission decision?
Candidates will be notified about the admission decision via their registered email.
Do we get a certificate for the Ahmedabad Grand Challenges Programme?
Yes, students will be given a certificate on successful completion of the Ahmedabad Grand Challenges Programme, provided they have attended and participated in all activities and sessions.
Will attending the Ahmedabad Grand Challenges Programme increase my chances of admission to the Undergraduate Programme at Ahmedabad University?
Attending the Ahmedabad Grand Challenges Programme will give you an insight into liberal education, interdisciplinarity, and experiential learning, which are the pillars of Ahmedabad University’s pedagogy. This will help you explore your interests and assist you in applying to the Undergraduate Programme at Ahmedabad University. However, this does not guarantee admission to the University.
Are there any terms and conditions/code of conduct for the Ahmedabad Grand Challenges Programme?
Yes, all student participants of the Ahmedabad Grand Challenges Programme must accept terms and conditions that will include:
The Ahmedabad Grand Challenges Programme Code of Conduct will be sent to all admitted students who will need to sign it before they start the Programme.
Will I have to attend all the sessions?
What is the refund policy?
The refund policy for Ahmedabad Grand Challenges Programme is as follows:
| Dates | Refund Percentage |
|---|---|
| Within 90 days of programme starting (On or after March 1, 2026) | No refund |
| Between 90 - 120 days of programme starting (Between January 30 - February 28, 2026) | 50 per cent refund |
| More than 120 days of programme starting (On or before January 29, 2026) | 75 per cent refund |
A refund may be requested ONLY in case of a clash with the national or state board examination. In such cases, the date sheet will need to be provided, following which the refund will be permitted. However, this will be considered on a case-to-case basis only.
Can guardians of students accompany them? If yes, are they allowed on Campus?
Guardians are welcome to drop-off their child but not allowed to stay overnight on Campus.
Do I need to carry any ID or document to enter the Campus?
Yes, you need to have a valid School/Government-issued ID card.
Where would the participants stay during the Programme in Ahmedabad?
The programme fee includes a stay in the Ahmedabad University Student Residences on a twin-sharing basis. This will also help the students experience University and hostel life and encourage collaboration with their peers.
Are the Student Residences safe?
Can I stay with my family or friends in Ahmedabad?
What are the tracks available in AGCP 2026?
Track 1: Science, Technology and Innovation
Explore how science and technology shape our world and drive future possibilities. This track encourages students to apply scientific inquiry and technological creativity to design innovative responses to complex challenges.
Track 2: Humanities and Social Change
Examine the human experience through culture, history, politics, philosophy and society. This track invites students to think critically about ideas, identities, and communities and to explore how the humanities can inform a more inclusive and reflective world.
Track 3: Management, Enterprise, and Futures
Engage with the challenges of leading in uncertain times. This track focuses on how organizations and entrepreneurs can navigate complexity, design creative responses to pressing problems and build sustainable futures in a rapidly changing world.
How do I select the right track for my interests and what support is available for students struggling to choose the right track?
Students will be asked to select their preferred track as part of the application process. Applicants are required to indicate their preferred track in the application form. Seat allocation will follow the programme’s established policy.
If you are unsure about which track to choose, the AGCP team will be available to help you decide. Their suggestion will consider your educational background, interests, and any relevant past experiences to guide you in making the best choice.
What core skills will each track teach students? Are the learning outcomes different for each track?
The highlight of the programme is the thematic studio focused on a grand challenge. Participants will collaborate in groups to solve real-life problems connected to the grand challenge. Through this process, students will strengthen analytical thinking, problem-solving, collaboration, and communication skills, while also engaging with specific disciplinary perspectives in their chosen track.
Can I opt for more than one track for the Programme?
Please note that seats are limited to one track per participant, and since tracks are concurrent it will not be possible for a student to contribute meaningfully to more than one track.
Can I switch tracks after the Programme starts? Is there any support available for students struggling in their chosen track?
Please note that once the programme begins, switching tracks is not permitted. However, if a vacancy arises in your next preferred track before the programme has started, we may be able to accommodate a transfer.
To support you during this process, you will be provided with preparatory reading materials, and our faculty members, peer mentors, and programme management team will be available to assist you with any challenges you may face.
What background or prior experience or knowledge are recommended for each track?
Each track at AGCP 2026 is designed to welcome students from diverse academic backgrounds and interests, so no specific prior experience is mandatory. However, having a strong curiosity and openness to interdisciplinary learning will help students make the most of their chosen track.
How do students come to know, for which track they have been selected? What are the criteria for the selection process of each track?
All participants will be notified via their registered email addresses. During the application process, participants indicate their track preferences and may be invited for an interaction with the AGCP team. Selection will be based on a first-come, first-served basis and subject to seat availability.
Can students participate in sessions outside of their selected track?
To ensure an optimal learning experience, students are expected to attend sessions within their chosen track only. However, there are masterclasses that are common for all tracks and participants across tracks are encouraged to attend them. The programme schedule is carefully designed for each track, and participating in sessions from other tracks is discouraged as it may not contribute meaningfully to your learning objectives.
Is there a limit to the number of students on each track?
Yes, seats are limited for each track to ensure a focused and quality learning experience for all participants.
What if the track I opted for/ am interested in does not have any seats left?
If your preferred track is full, we are unable to accommodate additional requests. You will be assigned a seat in your second-choice track, subject to availability.
In case of a medical emergency, is there any medical facility or hospital available on or near the Campus?
The Ahmedabad University Centre houses a Medical Centre for basic health care support and First Aid along with an on-call doctor in case of medical emergencies.
I have more questions, who should I reach out to?
If you have questions that have not already been answered here, you can write to us at/call on: grandchallenges@ahduni.edu.in | +91.79.61911405/01