Achievements
The Art of Man-making: ‘Moral values create a positive environment’
Dr Stya Paul Award recipient, says teachers at Apeejay School, Noida, guide her on the right path
She was thrilled when she received the news that she had been conferred with the prestigious Dr Stya Paul Award for Human Values. “My teacher had called my father to inform him that I had received the award a few days later, after the Founder’s Day, and it was the best news that I could have received,” Advika Upadhyay at Apeejay School, Noida, shared.
In a candid interview, the Class VIII student talks about how she enjoys playing sports, playing the guitar, reading books, and listening to music, among other things.
What inspired you to follow the path of human values, not just in school but in life in general?
I’ve been greatly inspired by Dr Stya Paul. He led such a miraculous life. Despite his disabilities, he turned them into his strength. His life is truly inspiring. I also observe my peers who face difficulties, and whenever I can, I try to help them. Helping others provides me with happiness and inspires me to continue doing good deeds.
Can you share an instance when you felt that you made a difference in someone’s life?
At the Diwali party at school, everyone was enjoying themselves, and I noticed one of my classmates struggling to complete her notebooks before the Diwali break. I went to her and gave her my complete notebooks to make her work easier. It made me happy to help her.
Balancing academics with moral values can be difficult these days. How do you manage both?
I set clear objectives and deadlines to prioritise my goals. When I face a problem, I think carefully about the consequences of my actions and try to choose the path that aligns with my moral values. Even when I’m busy or not in a good mood, I try to stay true to these values. My teachers have always believed in me and inspired me to follow the right path. In school, such values help us create a safe and happy environment where everyone feels respected and comfortable.
How do you think moral values help in building a better society?
When people around us live by moral values, it creates a positive and respectful environment. No one feels left out or uncomfortable. If someone is being disrespected, we should step in and help. When everyone follows values like kindness and respect, society becomes more positive, supportive, and compassionate.
