‘Let’s broaden the parameters of pre-primary students and allow them to soar high!’

Adorned in tri-coloured floral arrangement, the stage was set on December 27 for ‘Bharat Bhagya Vidhata’, the Annual Appreciation Day of Apeejay Rhythms Kinderworld, Jalandhar. Among the red curtains, one could spot young students filled with spirit and vigour, waiting to deliver a range of power-packed performances.

Invoking the blessings of the Almighty, the event started with the school Principal, Ms. Sinia Sajith, presenting a sapling to the Chief Guest of the day, Mrs. Gagan Kundra, IRS, Joint Commissioner, Income Tax Department, Jalandhar. The Principal lit the lamp to symbolically dispel the darkness of ignorance and commence the event with energy and positivity.

In her welcome address, Ms. Sajith, said, “The New Year 2022 comes with hope. However, it also comes with new challenges brought by the Covid-19 pandemic. Nonetheless, at present, we are more powerful and wiser in the face of adversity. This Annual Day is a celebration of emotions, determination and resilience to rise to the occasion. At Apeejay, we strive for excellence, independence of thought and action by developing sensitivity to ours and others’ well-being.”

She further highlighted the vision and mission of the Founder-Chairman of Apeejay Education Society, Dr. Stya Paul who laid the foundation of Apeejay schools in Jalandhar in 1989. An eminent educationist, industrialist and philanthropist, his vision for setting up educational institutions pan-India was man-making and nation-building aiming to impart world-class education to students of India. “Today his vision has materialised into 24 institutions of Apeejay pan-India. His dedication and passion inspires us,” said Sajith.

Carrying his legacy forward, his only daughter, Madam Sushma Paul Berlia, Chairperson Apeejay Education and President, Apeejay Stya and Svran Group, Co-Founder and Chancellor, Apeejay Stya University, has been instrumental in building the Apeejay institutions. “A renowned educationist, businesswoman and entrepreneur, she has championed the cause of the differently-abled, economically weaker sections of the society and women’s education. We thank her as she continues to motivate and guide us to achieve greater heights.”

Sajith further thanked Mr. Aditya Berlia, Co-Promoter, Apeejay Stya and Svran Group, Pro-Chancellor, Apeejay Stya University, highlighting how he brings a new perspective towards furthering the vision of holistic education for Apeejay Institutions. “Under his leadership, the seamless transition from offline to online learning happened at Apeejay and I also thank Dr. Neha Berlia who has been leading strategic initiatives within the Group.”

Welcoming Mrs. Gagan Kundra, the esteemed Chief Guest for the day, and Dr. Sucharita Sharma, Pro-Vice Chancellor at Apeejay Stya University, Sajith said, “I am delighted that we are all gathered here today. My special thanks to the efforts of all parents, teachers and students. At Apeejay, we have a vision to deliver high-quality teaching and promote holistic development. We aim to prepare students to walk hand in hand with the fast-paced world and be equipped to succeed in their life journey. We have spent the past year focusing on our identified criteria, consolidating our relationships with students, parents and serving their requirements during Covid-19.”

She then lay emphasis on the creative pedagogical practices, skill-development and thematic education that transforms the school into theatres of learning. “We equip students to motivate, explore, adapt, persevere and collaborate and therefore in the past year, we have introduced the concept of fun-filled Friday at the school to enhance the learning skills of children and encourage practical learning by creating awareness. Several activities are part of this initiative such as off-fire cooking, phonic skills, story-telling, yoga, dance etc. As the Principal of the school, I usher strong commitment towards the best educational practices and offering quality teaching-learning that is aligned to the NEP.  Wish you all a very Happy and healthy New Year!”

The programme began by saluting the blended togetherness of ‘Incredible India’, a country with innumerable languages, cultures, languages where people are tied with each other by values of unity, oneness and mutual respect. Through several vibrant performances, students made the audience walk through the beautiful facets and aspects of India.

The Chief Guest of the event, Mrs. Gagan Kundra, said, “I wish to thank the management of Apeejay, parents and guardians. It is always a delight to watch young kids perform, and I salute the Kindergarten students and teachers for their efforts. To all the parents, I want to say that we must allow our children to be themselves, give them the opportunity and not fit them into stereotypes. The world is a canvas, and the more they absorb, the more they can learn. At this tender age, they must be exposed to different aspects of life, be it sports, culture, art etc. and we should not burden them with our expectations. Students need a platform to bloom and we should encourage them and provide them positive affirmations. I congratulate the school for putting up a great show and wish that Apeejay keeps contributing to the nation by educating the youth.”

The programme witnessed an enthusiastic display of the rich cultural heritage of India through the eyes of the Sharma family who take a tour pan-India to understand its ethos and customs. Students dressed as popular National figures such as Subhas Chandra Bose, Kalpana Chawla etc stirred the audience. Headmistress of the school, Ms. Nidhi Ghai delivered a vote of thanks on behalf of the school, “I want to deliver my heartfelt gratitude to everyone and Mrs. Kundra for her presence. Thank you all for making this programme a grand success” The event concluded with students and teachers singing the National Anthem.