Learning from the brave sons of the soil this Independence Day 

Independent India has witnessed several iconic slogans during its freedom struggle and also in its journey as an independent nation. However, the one slogan that has always stood out and brings goosebumps on the skin of most citizens even today is ‘Jai Jawan Jai Kisan!’ given by former Prime Minister Shri Lal Bahadur Shastri.

The nation indeed stands tall on the shoulders of the brave soldiers and it is the bare minimum that we respect them. Their service to the nation is the highest sacrifice possible and one can only repay them with a heart full of sincere gratitude.  

Apeejay School, Noida keeping up with its rich legacy of nation-building  has always honoured those who serve the nation. To enlighten the students about the sacrifices of the soldiers of Indian armed forces, the school conducted a zoom meeting with the brave sons of the soil. This presented students with a unique opportunity to interact with the soldiers and learn about their experiences. The special session was also conducted as a gesture by the school to express gratitude to the soldiers for they are unable to visit their homes during any festivals.

Mr.  AK Sharma, Principal of the school, welcomed Colonel Kaushal Kashyap, a Shaurya Chakra decorated Special Forces officer and his comrades.  The soldiers were given a hearty welcome by the students as they presented a fabulous dance performance in honour of them. The curious students asked a volley of questions which were delightfully answered by the soldiers. The questions centered on various issues ranging from their lives and struggles to even their tenure in the army.

Col. Kashyap in his address encouraged the students to be strong both physically and emotionally as well as advised them to inculcate self-discipline for it is the foundation of a healthy life. Col. Kashyap interacted with students while enlightening them about military education, which he said is an important aspect of the intellectual development of all students. He then thanked the school for a much needed platform to guide and propel young learners towards military training and life. The meeting concluded with the singing of the National Anthem.

 Apeejay School, Noida firmly believes in the motto ‘Ask not what the country can do for you but what you can do for the country’. In line with this thought,  the school celebrated the 75th anniversary of India’s independence. As part of the celebration, Pre-Primary and Primary Department students enthusiastically participated in a special assembly organised at the school. 

The assembly commenced with informative speeches, poem recitations and patriotic dance performances by the students. The students paid tribute to all the revered freedom fighters who sacrificed their lives and fought for the independence of the nation. Committed to the task of man-making and nation-building, the teachers and students pledged to serve their motherland by protecting the unity of India throughout their lives through all their actions.

The young learners indulged in a plethora of activities which introduced them to the idea of nationalism in a fun yet interesting and educative manner. Activities such as  paper tearing and pasting (for Nursery students), colouring the Tiranga activity( for Kindergarten students), fancy dress performance as freedom fighters( for Class 1 students) and drawing of national symbols( for students across classes 2-5) instilled the patriotic zeal among the students for contributing towards their motherland and engaging in selfless service towards the nation.

Distribution of ‘Tiranga badges’ amongst the students of classes Nursery to II was done to pay homage to the motherland and to promote the ‘Har Ghar Tiranga’ campaign launched by the Government of India.

Bringing the Tricolour flag home on the 75th anniversary of independence became not only an act of personal connection to the Tiranga but also an embodiment of the commitment of all the citizens towards nation-building.

Principal sir, Mr. AK Sharma and Primary Incharge, Mrs. Smriti Samuel addressed the students and paid tribute to the great leaders of India. Mr. Sharma mentioned in his address, “When the entire country is celebrating independence with their family, it is so since they are shielded from external threats because a soldier is away from his family and is defending the country and its frontiers. Therefore, we must salute the brave soldiers of the nation and be grateful to them for their contribution.” He further emphasised on the significance of celebrating national days and reminded the students that such occasions enrich the legacy of our nation.