On 18 February 2025, Commander Sourav Maiti, an esteemed alumnus of Rashtriya Military School, Bangalore and the National Defence Academy, conducted an insightful and engaging session on “Academics Can Go Hand in Hand with Passion” at our School. The session was attended by the students of classes 7 and 8, and aimed to inspire them to balance academic excellence with the pursuit of their personal passions.
Commander Sourav Maiti was commissioned in the Indian Navy in July 2000, has had a distinguished career, serving on various frontline ships, including the aircraft carrier INS Virat. His professional journey is complemented by academic excellence, as he holds a Post Graduate degree (MTech) from IIT Bombay and a Post Graduate Diploma in Management Studies from Jamnalal Bajaj Institute of Management Studies. Apart from his military achievements, Commander Maiti is a passionate sportsman, having excelled in soccer and hockey during his school days. Over the past decade, he has developed a new passion for long-distance running, holding several accolades in the field.
The session began with Commander Maiti discussing the essential role of motivation and discipline in achieving success. Drawing from his experiences in both the military and academic fields, he shared how balancing passions, such as sport, with demanding academic and professional responsibilities can lead to fulfilment and success. He emphasised that academic excellence should not come at the cost of personal interests and passions. Instead, he illustrated how one can integrate both into a well-rounded, successful life.
Commander Maiti shared his personal journey, including his experiences in running marathons while serving as a naval officer, to demonstrate how discipline, consistency and focus in both academics and physical pursuits can coexist harmoniously. He offered practical advice on conquering procrastination, maintaining concentration, and channelling enthusiasm to propel oneself forward. His message resonated deeply with the students, encouraging them to pursue their passions with as much dedication as their academic goals.
The session was an eye-opener for the students, providing them with actionable strategies for managing their time effectively and balancing academic responsibilities with personal interests. Commander Maiti’s relatable and realistic approach left the students with a renewed sense of purpose and a clearer perspective on how to excel in both academics and passion.
The session underscored the idea that education is not solely about achieving academic results but about developing a well-rounded, passionate, and flourishing personality. The participants left the session feeling energised, equipped with the tools to navigate the challenges of balancing their studies with their personal aspirations. They were inspired to continue pursuing their passions while striving for academic excellence, knowing that doing so would lead to a happier, more successful life.
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