Celebrating the legacy of a visionary

Recently, Apeejay School, Charkhi Dadri, paid a heartfelt tribute to revered, Dr Stya Paul, (Founder-Chairman, Apeejay Stya and Svran Group), on the occasion of his 106th birth anniversary, celebrating his extraordinary vision, values, and contribution to education. The solemn yet uplifting ceremony was held in the school auditorium, graced by the presence of school Principal Dr Vineet Vasishtha, teachers, students, and parents. The event beautifully reflected the ideals of integrity, empathy, and excellence that form the foundation of the Apeejay Education ethos.

The ceremony commenced with a floral tribute offered by the Principal and the faculty, symbolising respect and deep gratitude towards the great educationist and philanthropist. This was followed by a soulful rendition of bhajans, which filled the auditorium with serenity and reverence, creating an atmosphere of devotion and reflection.

Students from Class V presented an engaging skit on moral values, portraying how honesty, kindness, and responsibility shape a meaningful life. Through their performance, they paid homage to Dr Stya Paul’s lifelong belief in education as a means to build character and strengthen society.

In his address, Principal Dr. Vineet Vasishtha read out a special message highlighting Dr Stya Paul’s remarkable journey — from a visionary entrepreneur to a pioneer of value-based education in India. He spoke about Dr Paul’s unwavering faith in human potential and his dream of creating institutions that nurture both intellect and character. Dr Vasishtha explained the deeper essence of the founder’s guiding maxim, “Soaring High is My Nature”, encouraging students to embrace it as a personal philosophy — to rise above challenges with courage, compassion, and purpose.

A significant part of the celebration was the presentation of the prestigious Dr Stya Paul Award for Human Values, conferred annually upon students who exemplify honesty, empathy, and respect in their conduct. This award honours the moral and ethical strength that Dr Paul considered essential to true education.

The winners of the award were announced across three categories. In the Middle Section (Classes VI–VIII), the award was jointly presented to Riyanshi (Class VIII) and Bhavika (Class VII), each receiving a cash prize of ₹5,000. In the Secondary Section (Classes IX–X), Sanvi (Class IX) received the ₹7,500 award, while in the Senior Secondary Section (Classes XI–XII), Shagun (Class XII) was honoured with a ₹10,000 prize.

In a touching moment that captured the spirit of family and shared values, the parents of the awardees were invited on stage, acknowledging their crucial role in instilling moral strength and compassion in their children. The gesture underscored the Apeejay Education belief that value-based education begins at home and flourishes through collaboration between school and family.

Sharing a heartfelt message, Principal, Dr Vasishtha, said, “Today, we pay homage to Dr Stya Paul, whose vision of value-based education continues to guide us. His belief in the boundless potential of every learner inspires us to soar high in pursuit of excellence. By honouring students for their integrity and character, we keep his legacy alive. I congratulate all awardees and their families for upholding the values that lie at the heart of Apeejay School’s mission. Let us strive to live by his ideals every day.”

The celebration concluded with a collective pledge by students and staff to uphold Dr Stya Paul’s timeless ideals. It was not merely an event of remembrance, but a day of reflection, gratitude, and inspiration, reminding everyone that his vision continues to illuminate the path of education and human excellence.