Apeejay School, Noida goes a step beyond to celebrate the G20 Summit

The year 2023 has been great for India. Loaded with triumphs at various levels, from sports to astronomy, this year has really made Indians feel so proud. However, the perfect icing on the cake comes today as India hosts the coveted G20 Summit.

This is the final point of India’s year-long presidency of the G20. Officially called the Group of Twenty, the G20 comprises the European Union and 19 other countries namely Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, France, Germany, India, Indonesia, Italy, Japan, Republic of Korea, Mexico, Russia, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Turkey, United Kingdom and the United States of America.

These G20 member nations represent nearly 85% of the global GDP (Gross Domestic Product). Hence, the G20 Summit is a perfect platform to discuss major decisions related to international financial cooperation. This is truly a feather in our nation’s cap and wherever one goes in Delhi-NCR, one will surely see the city decorated with magnificent posters of the Summit. 

When the entire city is glowing and bustling in the pride of this achievement, Apeejay School, Noida isn’t far behind. The primary department of the school held a plethora of activities to make the students aware about the G20 Summit in an absolutely awe-inspiring manner. 

In sync with this year’s theme ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’ meaning One Earth, One Family, One Future, several interesting activities were organised to inculcate the values of togetherness and brotherhood amongst students. Detailed info-graphics were provided to the students, making them aware about the history and purpose of the G20 Summit.  

Global cultural diversities were celebrated through a special assembly. Numerous colourful dance performances depicting the cultures of the G20 nations were performed. Dressed up in traditional attires of the respective nations, students presented an extraordinary visual treat by walking on the ramp. 

While it is true that dance, literature and culture does unite societies. But perhaps the central factor has always been food. Food has always been the bridge between cultures. Hence, a food fiesta was also organised wherein the students of all the classes brought the traditional dishes of the G20 countries.

 It was an unbelievable sight to see students put their tables together to build a stall representing a particular nation with its flag stuck behind on the chair. From Argentinian delicacies like quesadillas, tortilla de embers and the delicious dessert alfajores (a favourite dish of world champion Lionel Messi) to Brazilian cuisines like Baião de Dois consisting of rice alongside kidney bean stew with salad to the chocolaty dessert ‘Brigadeiro’, it was simply world culinary ecstacy. 

In addition, various art and craft activities were held across classes where students showcased the traditions of the country assigned to them. Fun races were also a part of the cultural extravaganza wherein students dressed in the national costumes of the G20 member nations participated with much verve and energy.

Applauding the efforts of the students, Ms. Ritu Kohli,Principal of Apeejay School, Noida, threw light on the significance of India’s G20 presidency.  She mentioned, “As the tempo of Indian Presidency of G20 rose, Apeejay School, Noida captured the opportunity to make it a treasure trove of knowledge and fun for the students. Senior students discussed the principles and scope of the G20 Summit and its consequential benefit to the nation. The juniors on the other hand took over the cultural aspect of the Summit and put together many fun activities from dance to ramp walk to even a food fiesta.”

The Principal added, “I would also like to highlight the efforts of the parents, who searched for the recipes of the international cuisines. From Japanese sushi and soba to South American tortillas to the indigenous bhel-puri, it was a great effort at experimental learning which shall long be retained by students.”

The primary in-charge, Ms. Smriti Samuel, also appreciated the willingness and enthusiasm of the students who devoted their hearts to the activities assigned to them. She stated, “It is a real delight to witness the power of cross-cultural events. Indeed the world is one and in unity is diversity. The students playfully learned the customs of many countries which has increased their general knowledge and curiosity for the world. This activity was indeed a big hit!”

The celebrations concluded with a sense of accomplishment and collaboration between the students. The school even put up the flags of the G20 member nations and the European Union beside the expressway road near the school to welcome all international delegates.