Prof. Geeta Gandhi Kingdon
Manager, City Montessori School &
Chief Convenor, Interfaith Conference
Message from the CMS Manager
This conference approaches Gender Equality across three interlinked dimensions—ethical, structural and generational. Faith traditions offer a common moral foundation that upholds equality. Institutions and policy frameworks must translate these principles into equitable systems and opportunities. Education remains central, equipping young people with the capacity to think critically, act responsibly and lead with purpose.
Placing Gender Equality at the Heart of Humanity -
Why This Conversation Matters Now
According to the World Economic Forum’s Global Gender Gap Report 2025, at the current pace it will take 123 years to achieve full gender equality worldwide. Yet evidence consistently shows that societies are more peaceful, prosperous and resilient when women and girls have equal access to education, leadership opportunities and economic participation.
The 11th International Interfaith Conference, organised by City Montessori School Rajajipuram Campus II, from 24th to 26th July 2026, brings together faith leaders, educators, policymakers, youth representatives, researchers and civil society organisations from around the world to explore a shared question:
How can faith traditions, education and collective action help build a future where gender equality is recognised as a fundamental human and spiritual responsibility?
Through keynote addresses, panel discussions, interfaith dialogue, cultural exchange and collaborative action planning, participants will examine practical pathways for advancing inclusion and human dignity across communities.
Panel Discussions
- Faith as the Moral Foundation for Gender Equality
Exploring how faith traditions uphold dignity, respect and equal opportunities for women and men. - From Moral Vision to Social Action
Examining how leadership, policy and institutions can transform principles of equality into meaningful change. - Educating for Equality
Showcasing how education empowers individuals, challenges stereotypes and creates more inclusive communities. - Youth as Partners in Reimagining a Balanced World
Highlighting the role of young people in advancing equality, dialogue and positive social transformation.
Promoting Peace through Interfaith Understanding
The International Interfaith Conference is a flagship global initiative of City Montessori School that creates a platform for dialogue, understanding and cooperation among diverse faith traditions.
The 11th edition explores the theme:
“Reimagining Our World Together: Placing Gender Equality at the Heart of Humanity.”
The conference recognises that gender equality is not solely a social or economic objective. It is also an ethical imperative shared across faith traditions and cultures.
- Pillar 1 – Enabling Equitable Participation
Addressing barriers that limit the full participation of women and girls in social, civic, economic and community life. - Pillar 2 – Strengthening Education, Economic Opportunity and Digital Access
Exploring how education, technology and financial empowerment can unlock opportunities and improve long-term outcomes. - Pillar 3 – Reaffirming and Critically Engaging with Faith Traditions
Examining how faith teachings can support dignity, inclusion and gender equality while encouraging thoughtful contemporary engagement. - Pillar 4 – Fostering Collaboration Across Institutions
Creating partnerships among faith communities, educational institutions, governments and civil society to drive meaningful change.
Our Inspiration
“True education releases capacities, develops analytical abilities, confidence in oneself, will power and goal setting competencies, and instills the vision that will enable a person become a self-motivated agent of social change, serving in the best interests of the community.”
Dr Jagdish Gandhi
(10 November 1934 - 22 January 2024)
Founder of City Montessori School
The CMS annual International Interfaith Conference was established by the school’s revered Founder-Manager, a spiritual giant, humble servant of humanity and a promoter of religious harmony.
Student Engagement Events
Message from the Convenor
Ms Khyati Lamba
Convenor and Headmistress, CMS Rajajipuram Campus II
Dear Distinguished Delegates, Faith Leaders, Thinkers and Changemakers,
It is with deep humility and purpose that I welcome you to the
11th International Interfaith Conference organised by CMS Rajajipuram Campus II from 24th to 26th July 2026. For eleven years, this conference has served as a living platform for peace, shaping young minds across continents.
We gather not merely to converse, but to reimagine a world where the wisdom of our faiths guides humanity toward the gender equality that our societies urgently need.