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Informed parental choices shape students’ success: Sanjay Kumar, Secretary, School Education and Literacy
At Apeejay School, Pitampura’s Annual Appreciation Day, teachers, students come together to commemorate victories
On a crisp 2 December evening, Apeejay School, Pitampura in Delhi illuminated with the spirit of light and excellence during its Annual Appreciation Day titled ‘Patang-e-Parwaaz.‘ This event not only showcased the academic achievements of the students but also underscored the school’s exemplary commitment to nurturing young minds, encouraging growth, continuous learning, and the exploration of uncharted paths of self-discovery. The theme of the day resonated with one and all as it showcased the human desire for growth.
The programme commenced with a captivating band performance by enthusiastic students, setting the stage for an eventful day. IAS Sanjay Kumar, Secretary, Department of School Education and Literacy and Kathak exponents, Padmashri awardees Nalini and Kamalini Asthana graced the occasion as distinguished guests. The sister-duo, hailing from the Varanasi gharana, brought with them a wealth of accolades for their graceful movements and patriotic spirit.
Eminent members of the Apeejay family, including Dr. V.S. Garg, Senior Education Advisor, and Mr. N.N. Nayyar, Education Officer, along with principals of sister schools, added to the gathering’s distinguished presence. Noteworthy alumni of the school, Anshika Aman and Priyank Mohan also graced the occasion, adding charm to the delightful day.
The official programme kicked off with a ceremonial lighting of the lamp, accompanied by soulful shlokas. The students and teachers co-hosted the show, with educators, Savita Panhotra and Sapna Sondhi contributing with their cheerful compering abilities.
As part of his address, Mr Kumar stated, “Visiting a school is like walking down a memory lane. Today, I am delighted to see the students of Apeejay! They are working towards attaining excellence in academics and sports. It is commendable to witness young minds immersing themselves in the service of the community too. We are truly living in very exciting times; each year is different from the previous one.”
He continued, “I wish to share a story. Many years ago, in the USA, I came across a lady with a small boy at an ice-cream parlour. The lady was careful to share all the names of the flavours available there. To this, I thought, it’s such a waste of time! Why would she do that? However, later on, it struck me how the information will not only add to the knowledge of the child but also help him learn to make a choice at a very early stage. Borrowing from this incident, I hope to bring to light that all parents must navigate their way by making informed choices because the same gets repeated later on in the lives of the children.”
Adding, he underscored how children in today’s day and age are becoming lonelier. Therefore, he encouraged parents to spend more time with them and help them pursue all that excites their imagination the most. Moreover, he inspired students to read and write. Such, he mentioned, will hold them in good stead and allow them to appreciate the point of view of others.
Finally, he declared how the misuse of technology and climate change are some of the biggest concerns of the 21st century. He pointed out how it is a result of society’s collective failure which needs to be addressed immediately. Lastly, he congratulated all the students who bagged honours during the function.
The celebrated sister-duo also graced the stage. In her address, Padmashri Nalini Ji said, “We have a long association with Apeejay. It is a renowned entity for knowledge-gathering and knowledge-sharing. In the 80s while touring the UK and Europe, we took upon ourselves to popularise the Indian ethos through dance. Such was necessary to make our nation stand out from other Asian countries. We have an enriching culture and identity and we must duly maintain it. Today, technology is driving us towards modernity but our foundation should be rooted in our culture.”
Soon after, Ms Veena Goel, Principal at Apeejay School, Pitampura addressed the gathering. She said, “In this season of gratitude, we are here to celebrate the milestones and accomplishments of our school and students. I extend a warm welcome to our guests for the evening. Notably, the foundation of Apeejay was laid under the leadership of Late Dr. Stya Paul, Founder-Chairman at Apeejay Education.”
Highlighting the vision and mission of the school, she continued, “Dr. Stya Paul envisioned to provide quality education of global dimensions leading to man-making and nation-building. Today, his dream is a living reality. His light continues to bless us all in our endeavours. At present, sir’s legacy is carried forward by his only daughter, Chairperson Mrs. Sushma Paul Berlia, a leading woman entrepreneur and educationist. Apeejay enjoys over five decades of excellence in education and the Group has grown from strength to strength. I wish to thank Mr. Nishant Berlia, Co-Promoter Apeejay Stya and Svran Group and Pro-Chancellor, Apeejay Stya University, Mr. Aditya Berlia, Co-Promoter Apeejay Stya and Svran Group, Co-Founder and Pro-Chancellor, Apeejay Stya University and Dr. Neha Berlia, Co-Promoter, Apeejay Stya and Svran Group and Pro-Chancellor Apeejay Stya University, for providing us the infrastructure and facilities to put up today’s show.”
Highlighting Apeejay School, Pitampura’s exceptional achievements, including securing the top spot in the Leaders’ Category in North Delhi as per the Times School Survey 2022, she celebrated the school’s success. Furthermore, she proudly mentioned a teacher’s international recognition in Taekwondo and numerous accolades of students in academics and sports, ranging from essay writing, inter-school competitions, to achievements in Badminton, Table Tennis, and Swimming.
In a noteworthy statement, she urged parents not to confine their child’s imagination to structured learning but rather encourage them to explore and create. Introducing the ‘Parent App,’ she invited guardians to actively participate in their child’s educational journey at Apeejay. Subsequently, a prize distribution ceremony honored students who excelled academically, with Mr. Kumar presenting the accolades.
Next, a musical spectacle, showcasing children playing delightful tones rang a vibrant message. A mesmerising performance of the Ganesh Vandana added a magical touch. A second prize distribution ceremony, felicitated by renowned Kathak exponents, acknowledged achievers across academics and extracurricular activities, representing Apeejay School, Pitampura, on various platforms.
The stage then came alive with power-packed performances centered on the theme ‘Patang-e-Parwaaz.’ Students creatively conveyed the lessons learned from kites soaring in the sky, symbolising flexibility and the power to rise above. A compelling play, based on Khaled Hosseini’s novel, The Kite Runner, portrayed the significance of finding peace with the past for a happy existence.
The grand finale, set to the inspiring tune of ‘Tu Shaheen Hai, Parwaaz Hai Kaam Tera,’ showcased the students’ unwavering commitment and concluded the day on a high note. In closing, the school delivered a heartfelt Vote of Thanks, expressing gratitude to guests, parents, educators, and students for their gracious presence, making the Annual Appreciation Day a memorable success.
