Alumni Speak
‘This school taught me to think independently, not mechanically’
Apeejay School, Faridabad, alumnus shares that values inspired by Dr Stya Paul have remained with him throughout his life
He is currently serving as the Chairman of the Institution of Engineers India, the country’s largest body of professional engineers. He is also a Council Member of the organisation. Alongside these responsibilities, he serves as the Additional Secretary of Rotary Midtown Faridabad. Through the club, we make an effort to give back to society in whatever way we can. Meet Inderdeep Singh Oberoi, an alumnus of Apeejay School, Sector 15, Faridabad.
In a candid interview, he shares how the teachers supported his academic journey. Among other things.
Why does Apeejay School hold a special place in your life?
It has always been an integral part of our lives. I studied there, and my children also graduated from the same school. The school taught me to think independently rather than mechanically. It shaped my culture, moral values, outlook towards life, and approach to developing my skills.
What distinguished Apeejay School’s approach to education?
It looked beyond marks and academic outcomes. The late Dr Stya Paul envisioned an education that focused on the holistic growth of every student. Those values have remained with me throughout my life.
How did your academic journey change after Class X?
I considered myself a mediocre student until Class 10. Things began to change when I entered Class 11 and chose the non-medical stream. Two or three teachers went out of their way to help us. Their support gave me the encouragement I needed during an important stage of my education.
Our education was never limited to textbooks. In subjects such as English and Humanities, we learnt about developments in India and across the world. Academics were only one part of our education.
Which classroom discussions do you particularly remember?
I distinctly remember discussing Indira Gandhi, the country’s policies, its economic situation, and the changes taking place at the time. Such subjects were not commonly discussed in schools then. These lessons helped us understand the wider world.
What challenge affected your confidence during school?
One challenge I encountered during my school years was the difference in the social and economic backgrounds of students. The situation changed after Class X, when students from other schools joined Apeejay School. These students came from varied backgrounds, and their arrival created a more balanced environment. Once that sense of class difference diminished, I felt more comfortable and motivated to study and perform. Looking back, I can understand how strongly a child’s surroundings can influence their confidence and academic progress.
You recently returned to the school as a guest. How did it feel?
It gave me goosebumps. I joined Apeejay School in 1977 as a seven-year-old. Returning in 2026, at the age of 56, and standing on the school stage as a guest marked a journey of nearly 50 years. Being there reminded me of my childhood and how I had navigated school life during those formative years. Sitting in that familiar setting brought back many memories.
What changes did you notice at the school?
I was happy to see how much the infrastructure had developed over the years. The physical structures had improved considerably, reflecting the school’s progress. Despite the infrastructure changes, the school’s ethos remains the same. Its familiar spirit is still very much alive, and that made returning to the school deeply special.
