Ekaparnika Sharma, a Class VIII student from Palampur, Himachal Pradesh, has secured first place globally in her age category at the ESU Youth Public Speaking Competition (YPSC) 2026. The competition, organised by the University of Cambridge in the United Kingdom, saw participation from 530 schools across the world, bringing international acclaim to the young speaker.
Information was available with The Chenab Times that Ekaparnika, competing in the 13–14 age bracket, delivered a compelling speech on “American History.” Her presentation was noted for its blend of historical perspectives and an Indian viewpoint, demonstrating eloquence, clarity of thought, and confident delivery. This victory places India at the forefront in its age category on the international leaderboard.
The achievement underscores Ekaparnika’s significant public-speaking abilities, critical thinking skills, and her capacity to articulate ideas effectively across diverse cultural contexts. This success is a moment of pride for her parents, her educators at Cambridge International School, Palampur (CISP), and the broader school community.
As a recognition of her outstanding performance, Ekaparnika is scheduled to visit the University of Cambridge on January 27, 2027. The university will sponsor her return travel, providing her with an opportunity to experience the institution’s renowned academic environment and further highlighting the significance of her accomplishment.
Priya Kapil, the principal of Cambridge International School, Palampur, extended her congratulations to Ekaparnika. She commended the student’s confidence, eloquence, and unwavering determination. Principal Kapil also acknowledged the crucial role played by Ekaparnika’s teachers and mentors in nurturing her talents and encouraged other students to pursue their aspirations with similar dedication.
The English Department at CISP characterised the student’s triumph as a testament to the importance of language proficiency, effective communication, and critical thinking in cultivating confident young speakers. The department attributed Ekaparnika’s success to her diligent efforts, coupled with the consistent guidance and encouragement provided by her teachers.
The ESU Youth Public Speaking Competition is an annual event that aims to foster and recognise excellence in public speaking among young students worldwide. It provides a platform for students to develop their communication skills, research abilities, and confidence in articulating their views on a global stage. The competition typically involves multiple rounds, culminating in a final presentation judged by esteemed academics and public speaking experts.
Ekaparnika’s journey to the top involved rigorous preparation and a deep engagement with the chosen topic. Her ability to connect historical narratives with contemporary relevance, all while maintaining a distinct Indian perspective, was reportedly a key factor in impressing the international panel of judges. The competition format encourages participants to not only deliver a well-structured speech but also to engage in impromptu questioning, further testing their knowledge and communication agility.
The school’s commitment to holistic education, with a strong emphasis on co-curricular activities such as public speaking, has been instrumental in fostering such talent. Cambridge International School, Palampur, has consistently encouraged its students to participate in national and international competitions, providing them with the necessary support and resources to excel. This win is seen as a significant milestone for the institution, reinforcing its reputation for academic and extracurricular excellence.
The broader educational landscape in Himachal Pradesh benefits from such international recognitions, often inspiring other students and institutions. The state has a growing number of students engaging in competitive academic and skill-based events, contributing to its profile on national and international platforms. The success of students like Ekaparnika Sharma serves as a powerful motivator for peers, demonstrating that geographical location need not be a barrier to achieving global recognition.
The University of Cambridge, a globally respected institution, hosts and supports various educational initiatives aimed at nurturing young talent. The YPSC is one such initiative, aligning with the university’s broader mission to promote academic excellence and cross-cultural understanding. The opportunity for Ekaparnika to visit the university offers a unique educational experience, potentially influencing her future academic pursuits and career aspirations.
The Chenab Times News Desk