The Art of Man-making: ‘The award has made me more disciplined’

Human values are the most essential aspect of our lives. They makeup who we are and want to become. We all have a sense of empathy, honesty, perseverance, and discipline instilled in us since birth. However, how we choose to follow these values and which value is dear to us, depends on us.

Schools like Apeejay Education are also committed to the holistic development of students and ensure that they become ethical human beings with the highest standards of honesty, humility, and integrity. The students who personify and exhibit these values in their daily lives are awarded the prestigious and coveted Dr Stya Paul Award for Human Values.

Meet one such recipient of the award who says that after getting the award she has become more confident and disciplined. In a candid interview, Anwesha Maurya, a student of a class VII, studying at Apeejay International School, Greater Noida talks about how human values can mould us into better people with a greater sense of self-esteem.

Excerpts from the interview:

Tell us about yourself.

I have a deep passion for Science and Mathematics, which have always been at the core of my intellectual interests. One of my major hobbies is reading. I also love to talk all the time.

What is your ideology behind human values?

A person should be disciplined. They must know the art of treating others – elders or those younger – with respect. The attributes of human values involve discipline, honesty, and leadership qualities.

How do you plan to take these human values ahead?

I have a defined set of rules in my life as to how and when to react to a particular situation. I may intend to speak less wherever required. Since honesty is the best policy, I will make sure to continue that attribute and move ahead in the same way.

What activities would you produce to evoke awareness about human values?

The school should consider organising more assemblies or sessions focused on the Dr Stya Paul’s life. The school must let the students know about the Dr Stya Paul Award for Human Values. While there are a few students who are aware of the award, there are several who are clueless.

Also, when teachers observe positive developments in a student’s character or behaviour, they need to acknowledge and appreciate these changes promptly. Such recognition serves as a form of moral support and encouragement for the child to grow better.

How would you follow human values outside your classroom?

Helping the needy and underprivileged is very important. It’s basic humanity. I want to be a role model for my youngsters. Recently, I have donated my old clothes to an orphanage. On my birthday, I distribute water bottles and lunch boxes to underprivileged kids. Moreover, I am planning to go on Diwali to visit them and spread some smiles by giving the kids sweets.

Who is your role model?

My parents. They have given me an abundance of human values like manners and discipline. They have also taught me how to live life. One thing I would want to learn from my parents is their essence of precrastination.

What would you like to imbibe from Dr Stya Paul’s life?

Leadership quality. It is remarkable how single-handedly he was able to develop such a strong sense of understanding and insight – you need a lot of courage to do this. I want to keep moving ahead in a way that he paved his path to success with immense hard work and diligence.