Achievements
The Art of Man-making: ‘Kindness isn’t an act; it’s a way of life’
The Dr Stya Paul Award recipient from Apeejay’s IB School says human values nurture harmony and compassion
A bright and compassionate student of MYP 2 at Apeejay’s IB School, Apeejay School International, Panchsheel Park, is this year’s Dr Stya Paul Award for Human Values recipient was born in Austin, Texas. After spending his early years in the US, he moved to India at the age of six and joined this school in Class II, where he continues to exemplify empathy, integrity, and respect. Meet Vivaan Verma, a 12-year-old who truly embodies the values the award stands for.
In an impromptu interview, he tells you what receiving this award means to him.
An aspect of Dr Stya Paul that inspires you.
His simplicity inspires me as he never looked down on anybody but treated everyone with kindness and respect. This reminds me to be true to people, to be kind to everybody, and to treat them with respect.
How have the school and your parents helped you imbibe human values?
My parents and this school have always taught me to imbibe human values, and are consistently kind and supportive. This creates a caring environment that helps me learn quickly, retain knowledge, and apply it throughout my life.
What does getting this award mean to you personally?
Receiving the Dr Stya Paul Award for Human Values is a great honour and a recognition of living by principles such as kindness, empathy, integrity, and service to others. It means that I am being acknowledged for contributing positively to society and embodying the values Dr Stya Paul stood for. The award motivates me to continue practising and promoting these values every day.
How do you try to promote kindness, empathy, and respect among your peers?
I promote kindness and empathy by actively listening to others, understanding their feelings, and offering help when needed. I treat everyone with respect, regardless of who they are, by being polite and patient. Through participating in various activities, I encourage my teammates to work together for the well-being of others.
Why is it important to uphold human values among students in today’s world?
Upholding human values such as honesty, respect, empathy, and responsibility is important because these qualities build trust and harmony in today’s world. Students with strong values help create compassionate communities and become responsible future citizens who can work towards peace and sustainable development.
