The grand unveiling of excellence driving through inspired and inspiring learning

It was the day poised to be etched in the tapestry of our memories forever and as the anticipation could not be held any longer, it was time to bring in the excitement under a vibrant aura with a spectacle named “Parampara,”.

Parampara translated into ‘Tradition’ in English was the theme around the Annual Appreciation Day held at Apeejay School, Charkhi Dadri on December 30, 2023. The starlit evening that brought together the entire school community, was a mesmerising journey through the cultural mosaic of India, encapsulating traditions, achievements, and the spirit of unity.

The grand celebration commenced with the lighting of the ceremonial lamp by esteemed dignitaries — chief guest, Mr Bakshi Ram Saini, Chairman Municipal Council, Charkhi Dadri. Mr Rudrendra Basak, principal of Apeejay School, Charkhi Dadri set the stage with a warm welcome, expressing gratitude to the gathered parents, guests, and beloved students.

In his address, the chief guest shared his journey, emphasising the joy that comes from hard work. “I commend the holistic development of Apeejayites and encourage students to prioritise health, refrain from junk food, and reduce mobile phone usage,” Mr Saini said and added that his children are alumni of Apeejay. 

“I take immense pride in expressing my satisfaction as a parent and otherwise about the greatness of this school’s academia,” Saini shared.

Mr Basak took the opportunity to pay a heartfelt tribute to the visionary Founder-Chairman, Dr Stya Paul, whose dream of quality education and cultural connection continues to thrive in the school. The journey of Apeejay School Charkhi Dadri, from its foundation on March 9, 1997, to become the beacon of English medium education in the region, was briefly revisited. The legacy of excellence initiated by Dr Stya Paul is now carried forward by Mrs Sushma Paul Berlia, a leading woman entrepreneur and industrialist, who serves as the present Chairman, Apeejay Education, and Chancellor Apeejay Stya University.

“Before we delve into the highlights of the year, let us take a moment to pay a heartfelt tribute to our visionary Founder-Chairman, Dr Stya Paulji. His dream of imparting quality education while instilling a deep connection to our rich cultural heritage continues to flourish in the form of Apeejay School, Charkhi Dadri.

Let us rewind briefly to the genesis of Apeejay School Charkhi Dadri. On March 9, 1997, the school’s foundation was laid with the noble purpose of providing quality English medium education to the students of this underdeveloped region. This journey, starting as the first English medium school in Charkhi Dadri, has been a saga of consistent success and growth.

“Dr Stya Paul’s legacy of excellence is being carried forward by his only child, Mrs Sushma Paul Berlia, Chairman, Apeejay Education, and Chancellor Apeejay Stya University. Mrs Sushma Paul Berlia is a leading woman entrepreneur and industrialist of the country, who has made outstanding contributions to the cause of industry, woman empowerment, and education. She is leading an industrial and business house with diversified interests in India and abroad. Mrs Berlia has made outstanding contributions in ensuring that the Apeejay vision of quality education of global standards leading to man-making and nation-building is effectively reflected in the conceptualization and standardisation of the academic programmes and curricula across all its institutions. Mrs Berlia has been conferred numerous awards and recognitions by both the national and international community. Madam has been conferred with the Lokmat Women at Work Leadership Award, the Hall of Fame Award at the 9th BBC Knowledge Education Leadership Awards, the 2018 Edupreneure of the Year Award, the Lifetime Achievement Award for promoting Education for the social cause, PHD Chambers Outstanding Businesswomen Award, International Lifetime Achievement Award by the International Congress of Women 2009 in Collaboration with the Government of India and the UN, to name just a few.  We are indebted to you for your vision, leadership, guidance, and help at every juncture.  Due to some unavoidable prior commitments, madam Berlia could not be here with us today. She has sent her good wishes and blessings for the annual day celebrations,” Mr Basak said.

“We thank Mr Nishant Berlia, an illustrious son of madam Mrs Sushma Berlia, Co-Promoter Apeejay Stya and Svran Group and Pro-Chancellor, Apeejay Stya University for his guidance and for providing us the world view of this pandemic and its impact,” Basak added.

The Annual Appreciation Day became a platform to showcase the academic achievements of the year, with special recognition given to toppers and meritorious students. Apeejay School, Charkhi Dadri was honoured with the “School of the Future Award” at the Haryana Progressive School Conference.

The evening unfolded with the most awaited cultural bonanza — “Parampara.” It was a visual treat that transported the audience through India’s diverse traditions and rich cultural heritage. Folk dances from states like Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan, and more were presented with grace and enthusiasm. The colourful attires and vibrant performances depicted the unity in diversity that defines the cultural fabric of our nation.

The event proceeded with the much-awaited prize distribution ceremony, where academic achievers, debaters, dancers, artists, and athletes were honoured. Dr Stya Paul Award for Human Values was acknowledged for exemplifying great human values in their daily lives.

The chief guest, along with other dignitaries, toured an Art and Science exhibition where students showcased their creativity and innovation. The principal thanked everyone for the success of the event, and the head girl delivered a gracious vote of thanks.