Mumbai school sets the stage for social impact

Apeejay School, Kharghar in Navi Mumbai, recently held a momentous event as it played host to the highly anticipated Installation Ceremony of the Interact Club, organised under the esteemed patronage of the Rotary Club, New Bombay Seaside. On the glorious Friday evening of July 7, the school’s auditorium was abuzz with excitement and anticipation. Distinguished guests, including Rtr. Ram Kumar Pandey, the Chief Guest and President, and Rtr. S. Sankaran, the Club Secretary, graced the occasion with their esteemed presence.

The ceremony commenced with a solemn ritual—the lighting of the lamp, symbolising the guiding light that would illuminate the path ahead. Mrs. Meenakshi Tiwari, the school coordinator, took to the podium and shared her words of wisdom, inspiring the students who were about to embark on their journey as members of the Interact Club.

With great passion, she expounded upon the Apeejay Motto, “Soaring high is my nature,” urging the students to embrace and embody the core values envisioned by the school’s Founder-Chairman, Dr Stya Paul. Mrs. Tiwari further emphasised the significance of holistic education, encouraging young minds to strive for a “learning how to learn for life” approach. She impassioned them to actively engage in service-oriented activities, extending a helping hand to the less fortunate in society.

Mrs. Leela Kulkarni, the Interact Club in-charge of the school, extended a warm welcome to the esteemed guests on behalf of her co-in charges, Mrs. Veena Rana and Mrs. Priyamvada Sharma. In her address, she highlighted the importance of the Rotaract platform as a gateway for students to seize opportunities and make a meaningful impact on their community.

The chief guest, Mr. Ram Kumar Pandey, took center stage, shedding light on the primary objective of the Interact Club — to motivate students to develop their leadership skills and cultivate social awareness. With infectious enthusiasm, he encouraged the young members to unleash their creativity and come forth with innovative ideas. As an ode to their school, the Interact Club members performed the school song with delightful harmony. Banners and photographs showcasing the remarkable social work undertaken by the Interact Club of Apeejay School, Kharghar adorned the venue, leaving a lasting impression on all.

Amidst a backdrop of anticipation, the Handover Charter ceremony followed, marking a significant milestone for the newly elected Board Members. Overflowing with pride and excitement, the council members received their badges of honour, symbolising their commitment to the club’s mission. The President, along with esteemed dignitaries, extended their heartfelt congratulations to the newly inducted members, whose faces beamed with excitement and a sense of responsibility.

Ms. Antara Joshi, the outgoing president, took the stage to share her invaluable experiences, delivering an inspiring speech brimming with encouragement. She gracefully passed the baton of leadership to the incoming president, Ms. Nanditha Nambiar, who graciously accepted the mantle of responsibility. In her address, Ms. Nanditha expressed her deep gratitude to everyone present for the trust bestowed upon her and vowed to lead the Interact Club with unwavering dedication.

The event culminated with a resounding vote of thanks proposed by Ms. Aarya Bangale, expressing gratitude to all those who made the evening a resounding success. The attendees rose to their feet, united in spirit, as the strains of the National Anthem reverberated through the auditorium, filling the hearts with a profound sense of pride and patriotism.

The Installation Ceremony at Apeejay School, Kharghar, not only marked the birth of a new Interact Club in the institution but also kindled a flame of inspiration within the hearts of the students. It served as a reminder that they possess the power to make a difference in the world and instilled in them the virtues of leadership, compassion, and service—a promising beginning to a transformative journey.

“Life’s persistent and most urgent question is: What are you doing for others? said Martin Luther King . Interact Club is an initiative at Apeejay School, Kharghar which instills in young minds the importance of “giving without any expectation”. Under this banner, we conduct various activities like blood donation camp, visit to orphanage and old-age home, tree plantation drive, first aid session, health and wellness workshop and many more. Such activities offer experiential learning to students. They whole heartedly participate in these activities and experience the joy of giving.

-Ms Tejaswini Katdare, Principal, Apeejay School Kharghar in Navi Mumbai