The Art of Man-making: ‘I am inspired by willpower of Dr Stya Paul’

India is a diverse country with various cultures, languages, and religions. Instilling human values in children fosters a sense of unity, tolerance, and acceptance of others’ differences. It promotes social cohesion and understanding, which are essential for the country’s harmonious coexistence.

Children who understand the importance of values like honesty, responsibility, and civic-mindedness are more likely to grow into responsible and active citizens. They will be motivated to contribute positively to their communities and society as a whole.

Hence, to honour such children of Apeejay Schools, Dr Stya Paul Award for Human Values are conferred on students who exemplify and exhibit good human values in their day-to-day life. The recipients of this prestigious award are felicitated every year with a citation and scholarship on the special occasion of Founder’s Day. Meet one such recipient Anandita Anand of class XI at Apeejay School, Mahavir Marg.

Excerpts from the interview.

Tell us about yourself.

I have recently gone to class XI. I am studying Science (medical). My aim is to sir for NEET and become a doctor one day. Also, I was conferred the Dr Stya Paul Award for Human Values in 2020 when I was in class VIII.

Had you heard about the Dr Stya Paul Awards before?

Yes. My brother, who recently passed out of school, was nominated for the award in 2021. Unfortunately, he didn’t get the award that year. He got the award last year, when he was in class XII.  

What I would want to imbibe in my life is the willpower that Dr Stya Paul showed despite various adversaries. He was determined to achieve his goals and that is truly remarkable.   

How did you come to know that you had been nominated?

Back then it was COVID-19 pandemic and classes were happening online. So, the school principal called my mother and told her that my name had been nominated for the award. I was so elated that my name had been nominated.

The feeling of satisfaction that you get is how I would define human values. This is a feeling that can’t be measured on any scale. It encompasses honesty, discipline, and acceptance for all

–Anandita Anand, Class XI Student at Apeejay School, Mahavir Marg

What was the procedure?

As I mentioned, the classes were online so everything had to be done online including the test and the interview on Zoom. I had to answer five questions. I understand that the sheets go to Delhi for checking. The interview was online and there were three people – the principal, vice-principal and one person from the Delhi office.

Basically, our behaviour is observed over a period of time by our teachers and they are the ones who nominate our names for the award.

What do human values mean to you?

Human values have different meanings to different people. For me, it is the traits that help me get what the heart desires. Of course, hard work plays a major role. But when you achieve your goals, the feeling of satisfaction that you get is how I would define human values. This is a feeling that can’t be measured on any scale. However, it encompasses honesty, discipline, and acceptance for all.

Honesty, being disciplined, and kindness are considered outdated today. How tough is it to live by these principles?

It is true that these traits are considered archaic today. To be disciplined means to be organised. Students juggle so many things today. It is not always possible to stick to schedule. But I continue to imbibe these values since I feel that it not only benefits me but also others.

What role have your teachers played in your life?

They have been there whenever I needed their help. They have given me responsibilities according to my caliber knowing that I will be able to deliver. They have always motivated me. Even at the parent-teacher meeting, they have had kind words to say about me. This has shaped me into a very driven person today.

What is the role your parents have played?

It is very tough to put into words the role that they played in my life. They have been there at each and every aspect of my life; they are my pillar of strength. I know that all I have to ask and it will be given. My brother too has been extremely supportive, especially in school. Teenagers become obsessed with how they look, it was my brother who kept me grounded and built confidence in me.