Mastering human relationships is the cornerstone to a leader’s journey: Mr Sudhanshu Pachisia

It is a universally acknowledged truth that there exists no higher delight, nor a more profound reward, than to bring about a foundational transformation in the life of another. Such a spirit of selfless service to the community finds its roots in the early education imparted at Apeejay Schools. Here, young minds are nurtured to contribute meaningfully to the nation by actively engaging with real-life challenges and extending a helping hand to those in need.

In a glorious celebration of leadership, service, and human values, three Apeejay Schools came together in Apeejay School, Faridabad Sector-15 on August 29, 2023 for a momentous event – the Composite Investiture Ceremony of Interact Clubs.

In line with their commitment to societal well-being, six Apeejay schools have forged a close partnership with Rotary, a global network comprising individuals who share a common goal of catalyzing positive change in the world. Under the banner of Interact Clubs, students collaboratively spearhead year-long initiatives encompassing a spectrum of causes, ranging from literacy and peace promotion to water conservation and healthcare accessibility.

On the notable date of August 29, the ceremony transcended the boundaries of individual institutions, encompassing three institutions. Its primary objective was the induction of fresh student office-bearers, entrusted with responsibilities for the academic term of 2023-2024. As these exceptional students stood on the threshold of a new academic year, adorned with badges of distinction, they also embarked on a journey of putting ‘service above self’, driven by the understanding that true leadership lies in enriching the lives of others.

“Students, keep adding value and bringing positivity with your endeavours.”

-Mr SuDHANSHU PACHISIA

This event not only marked the official conferring of badges and positions upon the bright young minds of the Interact Clubs but also symbolised a profound commitment to instill the values of responsibility, compassion, and selflessness in the leaders of tomorrow. The ceremony served as a reminder that leadership is not about authority, but about making a positive impact on the community. Rooted in Apeejay’s unwavering emphasis on human values, the programme heralded the dawn of a year brimming with promise, where these young leaders will translate their commitment into meaningful actions for the betterment of society.

Distinguished guests graced the occasion, including Mr Sudhanshu Pachisia, President, Rotary Club of Delhi Premier along with his family.  Also in attendance were Mr Shreekant Somany, Chairman & Managing Director of Somany Ceramics Limited and Ms Kanika Madhok. They serve as the Board of Directors at Rotary. The event was blessed by Dr. Neha Berlia, Co-Promoter at Apeejay Stya and Svran Group, and Chair of Interact, Rotaract, Rotary Club of Delhi Premier. She extended her greetings along with a video message for students.

The event was further enriched by the presence of Mr. N.N. Nayyar and Mr D.K. Bedi, Education Officers at Apeejay Education, along with school Principals, Ms. Anita Yadav and Ms. Priti Wason. School alumni, Dr Lipika Verma and Ms Ananya Kohli were also amongst the guests.

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“Excellence is not a singular decision but a choice we make consciously; a mindset that propels us towards continuous growth and improvement.”

-Dr Neha Berlia

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The day commenced with a grand gesture of welcome extended by Apeejay School Faridabad’s dynamic band. Subsequently, the assembly gathered in the school auditorium. A harmonious rendition of the National Anthem was played and illuminating the ceremonial lamp, the guests, and students reverently chanted mantras, invoking divine blessings and signalling the auspicious commencement of the event.

Bringing cheer to the atmosphere, students of Apeejay, Faridabad Sector-15 presented a folk dance from the state of Haryana. Together, they lit up the stage with their graceful movements and hearty smiles.

Following the captivating performance, Ms. Yadav extended a formal welcome to the esteemed guests. She emphasised that Apeejay School, Faridabad Sector-15 stands as a testament to five decades of unwavering academic excellence, continuously shaping young minds. She said, “Our dedicated pursuit is to elevate standards and conscientiously address the evolving needs of our students, both in the present and the times yet to come.”

Ms. Yadav further expressed gratitude to Mrs Sushma Paul Berlia, Chairperson Apeejay Stya and Svran Group, Chairperson, Apeejay Education, and Chancellor Apeejay Stya University for her guidance and support. She mentioned how her zeal to give back to the society and work towards the sphere of education and women empowerment is ever-inspiring. Ms Yadav also thanked Dr. Neha Berlia who is an active Rotarian. Dr Berlia balances her time between entrepreneurship and philanthropy.

As part of her video message, Dr Berlia said, “I am pleased to have with us Mr Pachisia. His role as the President of the club is underscored by his deep commitment, excellence and unwavering dedication. It makes me happy to host him today at our school.” Furthermore, she spoke about Apeejay Education which was founded more than five decades ago by her late grandfather, Dr Stya Paul, an eminent educationist, industrialist and freedom fighter. “Today, Apeejay has 26 schools and higher educational institutions pan-India with 40, 000 students, 60,000 alumni and over 2200 faculty members. Alongside, the Group prides in launching India’s first industry-centric, technology and liberal arts university – Apeejay Stya University.”

She continued, “Our association with Rotary began with my late grandfather, Dr. Stya Paul who was awarded the highest Rotarian honour for his humanitarian services as part of the Rotary club of Jalandhar. Since then, our family continues to mark the tradition by taking part in community initiatives.”

Apeejay Schools have been part of several community-based initiatives such as blood donation camp, save water campaign, recycling and waste management, clothes and food donation drives, and much more. Students have worked in close association with non-governmental organisations (NGOs) such as Prayas, Khushi and Goonj, just to name a few.

Dr Berlia added, “The concept of excellence signifies more than mere survival. It means transitioning to a state of thriving. Excellence requires one to take risks and encourages us to dream beyond confines. It is not a singular decision but a choice we make consciously; a mindset that propels us towards continuous growth and improvement. Lastly, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to all the Interactors. Looking ahead, I have no doubt that the new Presidents and their teams will up hold the legacy of excellence of the club.”

After her speech, students of Apeejay School, Panchsheel Park performed a melodious song highlighting the power of nurturing the mind to lighten the world. Then the outgoing Presidents Prateek Rout, Apeejay School, Panchsheel Park, Jia Zutshi, Apeejay Svran Global School and Anushka Kant from Apeejay School, Faridabad Sector-15 transferred their badges to the newly elected Presidents.

The outgoing student leaders from the three schools further shared their annual report. Gun Arora from Apeejay, Panchsheel Park shared how her team worked tirelessly through the year to serve the greater good. Members of her club held many initiatives such as: Kargil Vijay Diwas, Project Wings, Project Netra, Pink Ribbon and Green Diwali, just to mention a few. Next, Anshika Bhattacharya from class 11, on behalf of Jia, discussed how campaigns such as road safety awareness, online cardiac awareness, other literacy-based events, recycling exhibition and ann daan were hosted by the students of her school. They also worked in tandem with NGOs such as Prakash Deep. Lastly, Anushka related how members of her club active engaged with tree plantation drives, save paper campaign, anti-cracker campaign, blood donation and many more.

Following the speeches, the former student leaders transferred their Presidential collars to the new ones. The newly elected Presidents for this session are: Akansha Bharti – Apeejay, Panchsheel Park, Ananya Mehra, Apeejay, Faridabad Sector-15 and Drishti Sharma – Apeejay Svran Global School, Faridabad Sector 21-D. As part of the ceremony, Mr Pachisia administered the oath for all the position holders from the three schools as they pledged to do their utmost to serve the people and participate in all activities of the club.

Addressing the gathering, Mr. Pachisia discussed Rotary’s motto or the four-way test with all. It stood on four questions: Is it the truth? Is it fair to all concerned? Will it build goodwill and better friendships? Will it be beneficial to all concerned? He urged the student leaders to consider these questions when faced with challenging times. Moreover, he emphasised how despite a technology-driven age, human relationships continue to be the cornerstone of a leader’s journey. Lastly, he motivated students to keep on adding value and bringing positivity with their endeavours. 

Next, Mr Somany shared his pearls of wisdom. He began by speaking about Carl Sagan, an American astronomer who described the Earth as a “Pale Blue Dot.” Through it, he noted how this dot contains our home, friends, family, trees as well as animals. Remarkably, he mentioned about Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s address at B20 Summit wherein the PM discussed how a person consistently worries about his/her well-being through the day. Thus, Mr Somany stated that in one’s daily life, a student must find ways to translate a similar concern to their surroundings. “If we do so, we will make a beautiful world,” he said. 

In addition, he highlighted how the role of youth is most crucial for the nation. He advised the students to live by the oath they have undertaken during the ceremony and perform what is best for the society.

Following this, Akansha Bharti shared her vision for the upcoming set of club activities. She noted that themes such as menstrual hygiene, mental health, self-hygiene form important components of her upcoming events. Similarly, Ananya Mehra opined that she will actively engage her club with subjects like anti-bullying, anti-tobacco campaign, food donation drives, etc. Lastly, Drishti Sharma mentioned blood donation, ‘Padhega India, Badhega India’ as some initiatives she would like her club to focus on.

Concluding the day, Ms Seema Vaidya delivered the Vote of Thanks. She thanked all the dignitaries for their inspiring words. Besides, she applauded the efforts of guests, teachers, staff and students for putting up a great show.