The Art of Man-making: ‘My parents have taught me to be honest’

Exhibiting human values in life is important for several reasons. These values serve as a moral and ethical framework that guides our behaviour and interactions with others, contributing to a more harmonious and fulfilling society.  The practice of human values can contribute to personal and global peace. When people prioritise values like peace, love, and understanding, it can help reduce conflict and promote a more harmonious world.

Therefore, Apeejay Education in its commitment and endeavour in the pursuit of excellence, encourages the students and awards various scholarships every year. The Dr Stya Paul Award for Human Values is given every year to students who exhibit a deep sense of human values and a high level of integrity in his/her behaviour and conduct.

Meet one such student – Swastik Sahu of Apeejay School, Saket. In a candid interview, he talks about what human values mean to him.

How thrilled are you to get this award?

I was thrilled when I came to know that I had been selected to get this award. I was not expecting to find my name in the list of the selected awardees so when my name was called, it put me on cloud nine.

What was the selection process?

There were a total of three interviews. Two of these were oral with the principal sir and other teachers of the school. The third was a written text where we had to answer a set of questions.

Were you nervous during the selection process?

There is nothing to be nervous about. The questions were simple: What human values do you want to inculcate in your life? You must be true to yourself while answering such questions. Also, I was nominated for this award when I was in classes VI and VII. Unfortunately, I didn’t both times beyond round 2. I am fortunate to have got this opportunity again and conferred this prestigious award.

Why do you think you didn’t get the award earlier?

I think I was not experienced enough to understand what human values mean. I am now aware that I was lacking some values that are essential for everyone. The one value that was probably missing was perseverance. I am trying my best to inculcate this value in my life. I learnt this value when I read about Dr Stya Paul’s life – how he continued to work towards his goals without caring for the obstacles.

How do you prepare yourself for this award?

There is no way that you can prepare yourself. There are no books and no set of questions that are given to you. When you answer the questions that are asked you have to try and answer them based on what has been taught to you by your parents and teachers over the years. Since the questions are asked based on human values, you have to draw answers from your experience.

What are some of the values that you have learnt from your parents?

My parents have played a huge role. For instance, my father has taught me to be honest in all my dealings. In the school, we have moral education classes and I have learnt from their teachings as well. I have also learnt how to be calm in the face of any adversity.

How do you connect human values and take them ahead?

As I mentioned before, I would like to imbibe perseverance. This is one trait that will come into play wherever I go and whatever career path I choose. I want to become a doctor and this trait is of utmost importance.

Are you associated with some charity of Interact Club?

I was part of the Interact Club. I also, from time to time, go to an orphanage with my parents and donate clothes.