The Art of Man-making: ‘I find Dr Stya Paul’s hard work in life inspiring’

Human values provide a strong moral and ethical foundation for individuals, guiding their behavior, decisions, and interactions. Values like honesty, integrity, empathy, and respect, are essential for building a strong and positive character. They help students develop into responsible and principled individuals, which is important in a diverse and multicultural country like India.

India is a country with a rich tapestry of cultures, religions, and languages. Human values promote tolerance, acceptance, and understanding, fostering social harmony and unity among people of different backgrounds.

Therefore, schools like Apeejay Education are committed to the holistic development of students and ensure that they become ethical human beings with the highest standards of honesty, humility, and integrity. The students who personify and exhibit these values in their daily lives are awarded the prestigious and coveted Dr Stya Paul Award for Human Values.

Meet Harshitha Khurran, a student of class VIII at Apeejay School International, Panchsheel Park. In an impromptu interview, she talks about what human values to her.

How special are the awards to you, and why?

I’m honoured to receive the award, especially since this award is being given in our school for the very first time. To be chosen for this prestigious award in the first year is exhilarating. So, it means a lot to me, and I was quite shocked when I found out I got the award. I was not expecting the award as I felt my responses were not up to the mark.

What were you told about the awards when you were nominated?

A few weeks back, sometime in August, our teachers selected a few students from different grades, including me, for interviews with the principal. After the interview, some students were shortlisted. The teachers then instructed us to prepare for a written test. Based on that, three students finally cut this coveted award.

We were told that this award is extremely prestigious and given to only a select few each year.  

What do human values mean to you?

Human values are essential because they help us learn and become better people. Each person may have their values, but from my perspective, being responsible and self-managed is crucial, especially as we face increasing responsibilities in life as we grow older.

Did you learn something inspiring about Dr Stya Paul?

Yes, I find Dr Stya Paul’s hard work in life inspiring. It motivates me to work hard and follow my dreams.

How have these values helped you in your studies?

These values, along with determination and hard work, have helped me improve in subjects like Physics. I’m still working on understanding Chemistry better. I am not very fond of Hindi. But my favourite is Math and English. What I love about the former is that there are a few topics that we are learning that make the subject enjoyable.

How have your parents and teachers influenced your life?

My mother has always encouraged me to be the best version of myself and be well-behaved. My teachers have had faith in me and have helped me understand new concepts when needed. They have always been supportive and been there for me.

If there was one act of kindness you’d like to do for others, what would it be?

I would try to help others in any way possible, especially in learning new things.

In a world where people can be selfish, how do you maintain your core values?

By acting on these values in real life, I hope to inspire and influence others positively. This way, we can make the world a better place by setting an example.