Garhwal Post Bureau
Dehradun, 22 Sep: Sardar Bhagwan Singh (SBS) University proudly hosted Guru Samman Diwas, a heartfelt celebration honouring educators and academic leaders for their transformative contributions to education. This annual event serves as a tribute to teachers who inspire lifelong learning, impart invaluable lessons, and shape future generations, embodying their role as the “architects of society” through fostering knowledge, critical thinking, and character development.
The event brought together principals and educators from distinguished government, public, and private institutions across Dehradun and neighbouring regions. Participants engaged in dynamic discussions on academic, administrative, and pedagogical challenges, sharing best practices and exploring innovative collaborations to advance educational excellence.
The programme commenced with a traditional lamp-lighting ceremony, symbolising enlightenment and wisdom, followed by an inspiring welcome address by Dr Nidhi S Belwal. She praised teachers as the pillars of society, recognising their wisdom, compassion, and unwavering dedication to nurturing young minds.
A key highlight was the panel discussion, “The Evolving Role of Educators in the 21st Century”, moderated by Dr Nidhi S Belwal. The panel featured esteemed educators, including Prof C Nithya Shanti (Head of Pharmaceutics, SBS University), Amitabh Garg (Principal, Doon World School), Dr Parull Sharma (Principal, Mount Fort Academy), Tanuja Pokhriyal (Principal, Doon International Public School, Rishikesh), and Chief Guest Dr Reema Pant. The discussion delved into critical topics such as integrating technology in education, fostering emotional intelligence, and adapting to evolving student needs, sparking vibrant and thought-provoking exchanges.
The University Cultural Club captivated attendees with vibrant performances honouring the teaching community, setting the stage for the Guru Samman Awards Ceremony. Led by Prof (Dr) J Kumar, Vice-Chancellor of SBS University, the ceremony celebrated the exemplary contributions of educators and principals, including Dr Nirmal Singh (Principal, Doon Valley School), Shalini Rawat (Principal, Cambridge School), Kavita Sharma (Principal, Gyan Jyoti Academy), and Suresh Joshi (Principal, Hill Grange School), among other distinguished recipients from renowned institutions.
In her keynote address, Chief Guest Dr Reema Pant, Founding Director of Techno Hub Laboratories, eloquently highlighted the nobility of the teaching profession, urging educators to pursue their mission with passion and empathy. Her personal anecdotes deeply resonated with the audience, reinforcing the profound impact of educators. Special Guest Prof Durgesh Pant, Director General of UCOST, remarked, “Teachers are the architects of our future, shaping young minds and fostering innovation. The wisdom and values you impart guide students to become responsible citizens and leaders.”
Dr Gaurav Deep Singh, President of SBS University, lauded educators for their indispensable role in shaping society and extended heartfelt wishes for their continued success in their noble endeavours.
In his closing remarks, Prof (Dr) J Kumar congratulated the awardees and emphasised the importance of collaboration between schools and universities to strengthen the education ecosystem, in alignment with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. He reaffirmed SBS University’s commitment to holistic student development and its mission to foster a vibrant academic community.
The event was graced by distinguished dignitaries, including Zorawar Singh, Manager, alongside the Registrar, Deans, Directors, Heads of Departments, and faculty members, reflecting SBS University’s dedication to cultivating a collaborative and forward-thinking academic environment on its hallowed ground.
The Awardees recognised at the Ceremony were Neelima Mewar and Ruchi Rawat, Glacier Public School, Dehradun; Dr Charu Singhal and Anuradha Aswal, The Indian Academy, Dehradun; Rashpal Singh and Neena Uniyal, Mount Fort Academy, Dehradun; Deepak Rawat and Neelam Negi, The Presidency International School, Dehradun; Manish Singh and Priya Rawal, Maa Anandmayee Memorial School, Haridwar; Suman Lata Aswal and Anuj Khanduri, Dharma International School, Dehradun; Neelam Singh and Vivek Narula, Scholars Home Sr. Sec. School, Dehradun; Himani Sen and Varuna Sehgal, DSB International Public School, Rishikesh; Juhi Sachdev and Anjana Raturi, Nirmal Ashram Gyan Daan Academy, Rishikesh; Divya and Niharika Rawat, Doon International Public School, Rishikesh; Babita Kathait and Yatendra Khantwal, Doon World School, Dehradun; Anita Aswal and Vandana Bhatnagar, Doon Blossoms School, Dehradun; Kanta Bisht and Neeta, Shivalik Bhagirathi Public Senior Secondary School, Rishikesh; Yashpal Singh and Sudha Uniyal, Government Inter College, Balawala, Dehradun; Capt Subhash Kumar and Sushma Badoni, Guru Nanak Academy, Dehradun; Neha Sharma and Jagdeep Kumar, Beverly Hills Shalini School, Dehradun; Narendra Srivastava and Komal Rathore, Doon International Public School, Dehradun; Manju Uniyal and Rajendra Prasad, Holy Angel School, Majri Grant, Doiwala.
