The Ramakrishna Mission, New Delhi recently organised a nationwide launch of its Awakened Citizen Programme, at the Vivekananda Auditorium of the Mission, on 14 February, 2015. Honble HRD Minister Smt. Smriti Irani graced the function as chief guest.
The event saw the attendance of principals and teachers from schools across Delhi and NCR. Most schools present were participants in the missions ongoing Awakened Citizen Programme. Representing our School were Ms.Navreet Shergill and Ms. Gandharvi Mukherjee.
The programme commenced with the welcome address by Swami Shantatmananda, secretary of the mission. He spoke about the Awakened Citizen Programme, explaining that the mission itself was developed as a comprehensive three-year programme based on Swami Vivekanandas message of the infinite potential in every individual, which can be manifested as excellence in every walk of life. Enriching young students with good values, the CBSE has collaborated with the Ramakrishna Mission to initiate this value education programme for students of classes VII, VIII and IX. The initiative is marked as a part of Swami Vivekanandas 150th birth anniversary celebrations.
The Speaker expounded on the beliefs of Swami Vivekananda, who said that empowering the youth with value education helps them create new possibilities, work on solutions to the problems of life, have the courage to face challenges, adapt to the environment, besides, live, learn and explore the frontiers of knowledge. The Awakened Citizen Programme aims at equipping students with soft skills, character-building techniques and other life tools. Swamiji then, invited questions from the audience. Answering one of the questions, he said that schools should wholeheartedly extend their support to this programme.
The speech was followed by a powerpoint presentation by Mr. V. Srinivas, the content and methodology developer of the Awakened Citizen Programme. He presented an overview and a brief outline of the 16 modules of the programme.
Strongly favouring education that inculcates values and develops good character among students, Smt. Smriti Irani, in her address to the teachers present, said that cultural tolerance and respect for women should be key in educational models. She added that today, as we impart education, values are being left behind. Education should be one that it inculcates ethics and develops strong character. Noting that education and culture should go hand in hand, she said that education should also develop sound principles in children. She further added that parents should also be involved in the Awakened Citizen Programme.
Smt. Irani promised full-fledged support by the government in taking the programme to its height so that it reaches as many schools as possible across the nation.
Reported by Ms. Gandharvi Mukherjee.
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