Children must live in harmony with nature: NHRC Chairperson

Truly, knowledge is deeper than the ocean and wider than the sky. It is simply limitless and endless. Recognising the need to utilise the power of education to raise awareness about sustainability, Rhythms Kinderworld School, Greater Kailash – II, held its Annual Appreciation Day titled ‘Treasures of the Deep’ on March 05, 2023.

The occasion was based on ‘Sustainable Development Goals 14: Life below Water’, a theme that urged the audience to conserve and sustainably use the oceans, seas and marine resources. The Chief Guest of the day was Justice Arun Kumar Mishra, Chairperson at National Human Rights Commission of India. He is a former Judge of Supreme Court of India and the former Chief Justice of Calcutta High Court and Rajasthan High Court.

Special Guests of Honour, Ms Alaknanda Das Gupta, Kathak dancer and Ms Kavita Dwibedi, renowned Odissi exponent graced the occasion. Besides, eminent members from Apeejay Education Ms Anita Paul, Ms Purnima Vohra and Ms Ritu Mehta were present during the function.

The day began with the lighting of the lamp ceremony by the distinguished guests. They were accompanied by Ms Komal Nathani, Headmistress of the school. Together, they evoked divine blessings before commencing the show. Soon after, the guests were accorded an eco-friendly welcome by the school’s staff as a token of appreciation.

Addressing the gathering, Ms Nathani said, “Today, we are here to celebrate God’s creation. Amongst other things, children are the most precious beings created by God. On this day, we are here to honour their accomplishments along with their parents, grandparents and teachers. I extend my heartiest welcome to all!”

She continued, “Apeejay Education is guided by the dream of Late Dr Stya Paul, who envisioned to provide holistic education of global dimensions leading to man-making and nation-building. Today, his legacy is carried forward by his only daughter, Chairperson Madam Sushma Paul Berlia, a leading woman entrepreneur and educationist. On this momentous occasion, I would also like to thank Mr Nishant Berlia, Co-Promoter Apeejay Stya and Svran Group and Co-Founder and Pro-Chancellor of Apeejay Stya University, Mr Aditya Berlia, Co-Promoter Apeejay Stya and Svran Group and Co-Founder and Pro-Chancellor of Apeejay Stya University, and Dr Neha Berlia, Co-Promoter of Apeejay Stya and Svran Group and Pro-Chancellor of Apeejay Stya University for providing us the necessary infrastructure and facilities to put up this show. I must add that Madam’s grandsons are alumni of Rhythms Kinderworld School which was established in 2014. Currently, we are among the most sought-after preschools in the national capital due to our innovative pedagogy, well-researched curriculum, outstanding faculty and much more. Over the years, it has become a home away from home for our kids.”

Further, she shared the numerous events held in the school in the past year. These were inclusive of a health and hygiene workshop, book fair, summer camp and celebration of festivals like Christmas, Easter, Halloween, just to mention a few. According to her, these have helped strengthen relationships and bonds among students and inculcated values as well as understanding of each other’s community.

Followed by this, the students of the school presented a power-packed show. It was based on a story of mermaids in which primary students delivered dialogues with great confidence and aplomb. They took the audience on a magical journey of awe and wonder and with that urged them to preserve marine life. The spectacular show simply had everything, dance, drama and melody. It received massive applause from the audience and captivated their imagination.

On the big day, Justice Mishra also shared his thoughts. He said, “I appreciate the efforts of the children. They not only performed but worked, learned and collaborated together to put up a great show. I would like to mention that as we are living in a tech-driven world today, it is mandatory to understand its pros and cons. Notably, between 96% and 99% of the internet is dark web, therefore, internet users must be cautious. Expectedly, children too have access to devices, and so, cases of online child abuse, exploitation are ever-increasing. In the light of this, I suggest parents should use child-friendly applications. With this, don’t forget to inculcate in your children the crucial values and philosophies which the Indian culture is known for. These must become part of a student’s formative years.”

He added, “Going by the theme of the day, we must teach children to love the environment. They should live in harmony with nature and learn as much and in as many different languages. Finally, I would like to congratulate the teachers, parents and staff of Apeejay for having me here.”

After this, the graduation ceremony of the school was held. It was felicitated by Education officers at Apeejay, Ms Paul and Ms Vohra. The special guests of the annual day Ms Das Gupta and Ms Dwibedi took to the stage. Collectively, they emphasised on how parents should dream with their children, and not for them. The agency and independence as to what a child wants to become should reside with them only.

Closing the day, Ms Rabia Azim delivered the Note of Gratitude. She commended the efforts of all staff for their support and contribution to the event. The ceremony concluded with the National Anthem.