Identify your talent and work towards it to carve a niche: Padma Shri awardee advises students

Aspirations drive us all. These are vibrant threads that weave the intricate pattern of our lives’ journey. On the path of learning and self-discovery, aspirations become the compass guiding students towards their goals and dreams. These fervent desires, fuelled by passion and a thirst for knowledge, encapsulate the very essence of potential and purpose.

Truly, aspirations are beacons of light, illuminating the path to success and fulfillment. They fuel resilience, perseverance, and the pursuit of excellence, propelling students to overcome challenges and reach new heights. In the classroom, aspirations often transform learning into a dynamic voyage, where curiosity and determination converge to create a fertile ground for growth.

The grandeur of Apeejay School, Model Town’s Annual Appreciation Day, ‘Khwaishein,’ unfolded on December 23, 2023, ushering in a day of celebration, camaraderie, and recognition. Abhiraj Agarwal, a student, extended a warm welcome to esteemed guests, including parents, students, and teachers, setting the stage for a memorable event.

‘Khwaishein’ served as a dynamic platform for students to showcase their exceptional talent and creativity. In a competitive society where students relentlessly toil to carve a niche for themselves, this celebration acknowledged their dedication and perseverance.

The event was graced by distinguished personalities, adding prestige to the occasion. Padma Shri Bahadur Singh, Commandant 7 Battalion PAP, Jalandhar, an Indian former shot putter and recipient of the Maharaja Ranjit Singh Award in 1999, added a touch of athletic prowess to the gathering. Mr Lal Vishwas, SDM, Kapurthala, adorned the event as the Guest of Honour. Besides them, Dr Sucharita Sharma, Pro-Vice Chancellor and Director of Schools of Jalandhar, Apeejay Education was also present along with eminent educationists from Apeejay sister-schools. 

In a heartfelt address, Padma Shri Bahadur Singh ji said, “I am happy to be here. It is dreams which take flight and make a person soar high. Nonetheless, to fulfill any aspiration, hard work and dedication is key.” He exemplified the life of Dr APJ Abdul Kalam and spoke about his sincerity and goal-driven approach. In addition, he advised the students, “Identify your talent and work towards it to carve a niche.” Finally, he appreciated the efforts of the students, teachers and the school’s principal for putting up a great show. 

Next, Mr Lal Vishwas shared his thoughts. He said, “I am delighted to see the hard work of students, teachers at the Annual Appreciation Day. Many congratulations to the team! Last year, I also attended a Diwali celebrations of the school, their creativity, hard work was spectacular. Kudos!” 

He continued, “I want to share a message for the students that you can achieve anything you want. The only thing that will take you there is hard work, discipline and consistency.” He also cited examples from the lives of celebrated personalities across fields like Elon Musk, Virat Kohli, Shahrukh Khan to enlighten the students. He emphasised the role of good values which parents and teachers must inculcate in the students. 

The spotlight then turned to the relationship between parents and their children. A play underscored the challenges faced by students in a competitive environment, emphasising the undue pressure imposed by parents. It resonated with a plea to parents to become pillars of support, urging them to foster an environment where their children can spread their wings and soar high. The message was clear – support and encourage children to chase their dreams.

Sharing the annual report of the school, Mr. Malkiat Singh, the esteemed Principal set the tone for an evening of appreciation and recognition. The culmination of accomplishments in the previous academic year reflected not only the prowess but also the vibrant spirit of co-curricular activities at the institute. Nurturing students from a young age, the school instills values of loyalty, team spirit, and healthy competition, fostering a well-rounded development. 

Mr Singh also extended his heartfelt appreciation to Mrs Sushma Paul Berlia, Chairman, Apeejay Education, and Chancellor Apeejay Stya University, the only daughter of the beloved Founder-Chairman, Dr Stya Paul. 

“We are grateful for her mentorship and are fortunate to have received immense support from her children, Mr Nishant Berlia, Co-Promoter Apeejay Stya and Svran Group and Pro-Chancellor, Apeejay Stya University; Mr Aditya Berlia, Co-Promoter Apeejay Stya and Svran Group and Pro-Chancellor of Apeejay Stya University; Dr Neha Berlia, Co-Promoter of Apeejay Stya & Svran Group and Pro-Chancellor of Apeejay Stya University, as the next-generation entrepreneurs, supporting Apeejay in achieving greater success with their philanthropic approach, leading society forward,” he said.  

A recorded video message of Dr Neha Berlia was shared with the gathering. Through it, she commended the school for its efforts across academic, sports, and co-curricular successes and motivated young minds to never give up on their dreams.

Next, Mr Singh noted that the school has gained a commendable reputation, progressing in leaps and bounds, achieving excellence aligned with the principles of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. This annual round-up was not only impressive but also remarkably rewarding, emphasising the school’s commitment to shaping students into well-rounded individuals ready to face the challenges of the future.

Dr Stya Paul’s legacy, the guiding force behind the Apeejay Stya Svran Group, was commemorated as the school choir pledged to usher in an era of optimism. The event commenced with a captivating video presentation, offering a glimpse into the business, growth, and ethical values of the Apeejay Stya Svran Group. 

The school’s anthem and a soulful rendition of Lord Shiva’s Stuti by students added a spiritual dimension, symbolising control over thought, word, and action. The performances seamlessly blended a graceful dance, evoking a positive aura marked by purity and perfection.

The school’s commitment to fostering an environment of blossoming young minds was evident as the platform offered ample space for individual thinking and personality development. From academics and sports to discipline and leadership, the foundational and preparatory stage was meticulously laid out. Remedial programmes, fixed revision patterns, and a focus on academic achievements spoke volumes about the holistic learning culture and comprehensive education upheld by the school.

Moving forward, the cultural extravaganza continued with energetic performances, including a play centered on the theme Khwaishein, emphasising the importance of nurturing children’s aspirations. A special BTS video provided a behind-the-scenes glimpse of the making of Khwaishein, showcasing the dedication and creativity involved.

The pinnacle of the event was the Prize Distribution ceremony, where the aptitude and acumen of brilliant students were acknowledged. Distinguished guests presented prizes, embodying the school’s commitment to recognising and nurturing talent.

Lastly, student, Bhavleen Kaur extended the Vote of Thanks. She appreciated the efforts of all in being present on the special day. Commending the efforts of the school, she noted their valuable contribution in molding young minds into well-balanced personalities, ready to conquer the challenges of the future. The event concluded with the National Anthem.