TalesOfTradition: “The school always prioritised studies in a very genuine way”

For Mr Vijay Bagga, stepping into Apeejay School, Noida is not just about attending his children’s PTMs, it’s a walk down memory lane. A 1997 batch alumnus and Commerce topper, Mr Vijay today watches his daughter Riddhima (Class X-B) and son Ranbir (Class III-B) grow in the very institution that shaped his own academic journey. In this heartfelt conversation, he reflects on legacy, discipline, and why some values never change.

Read edited excerpts:

Having studied at Apeejay School, Noida yourself, what factors influenced your decision to choose the same institution for your children?
Apeejay School, Noida was an obvious choice for me. My own experience as a student was extremely positive, especially academically. The school always prioritised studies in a very genuine way. I was a Commerce topper, and I still remember receiving the Jagannath Gold Medal from Dr Stya Paul himself. Those memories gave me confidence that my children would also be in the right hands.

You had the opportunity to interact with Dr Stya Paul. What do you recall about him?
He was a very sincere and genuine person. He occasionally addressed students and believed deeply in education as a means to change the country, not as a commercial activity. Even brief interactions left a strong impression on us.

How does it feel to see your daughter and son study in the same school?
It feels very special. When I attend PTMs or school events like the Christmas Carnival, I often tell my children how we used to sit in the same hexagon-shaped, airy classrooms or play football on the ground after lunch. Even though the campus has evolved with air-conditioning and renovations, the soul of the place feels the same.

As a parent, what values of Apeejay School, Noida stand out to you today?
Discipline and academic focus. The school isn’t flashy, and that’s a good thing. It has a very grounded, middle-class mindset where teachers genuinely care about students’ futures. In today’s world full of distractions, that gives parents immense confidence.

How has your own journey influenced your expectations as a parent?
Education has always been central to my life. After Apeejay, I studied at Shri Ram College of Commerce, became a CA, pursued an MBA from ISB Hyderabad, and worked with the Aditya Birla Group. I want my children to value academics the same way. Apeejay School, Noida still carries that legacy, and that’s reassuring.