On 29^th February 2012, Delhi Public School, R.K.Puram had the honour  of a visit by Ms. Linda Thomas, Vice President of Smart Technologies.

The objective of her visit was to highlight “Classrooms of the Future” and the role  of the Smart Technologies in the same. On her arrival, she had an interaction with the Principal, Dr.D.R.Saini, Vice Principal, Mrs. Shobha Mehta, Head – Computer Science, Mr.Mukesh Kumar  and Headmistresses, Ms. Vanita Sehgal & Mrs. Anita Singh. Later, she addressed the teaching faculty in a special session in the audiovisual hall where she talked about the advantages of the ‘Smart’ notebook and how the new cutting age technology would transform teaching and learning process. She assured the teachers that it was not a substitute for the teacher but a valuable aid, which would enable better understanding and also will enable teacher to deliver the concepts in a better way. Through a digital presentation, she showed how the new technology would act as an asset in pedagogical practice. Ms. Linda interacted with all the heads of the various Departments of the school. She later went on a tour of the school to personally see the rooms where various technologies are being demonstrated to the teachers by various service providers.

A delegation of students and teachers from the Anyang Foreign Language High School, South Korea arrived at DPS R.K. Puram on 8th February 2012. The Principal, Dr. D.R. Saini warmly welcomed the guests. A colourful cultural program was held in their honour. Ms Mamta Sharma and Ms Anuradha Dang are the coordinators of the exchange program.The Korean exchange program has been held annually since 2004 and its objective is to inculcate in the participants an understanding of the cultures of the two countries.

The cultural program commenced with a soothing classical instrumental performance by the school orchestra followed by a rendition of the song’ Circle of life’ by the western music team, an enthralling fusion dance performance of Kathak and bharatnatyam on the song’ Tarana’ and a unique puppet dance by the students of DPS Shiksha Kendra.

The Korean students too enraptured the audience by presenting a scintillating cultural dance, an entertaining hip hop performance and also showcasing the moves of their national sport, Taekwondo.

The Principal Dr Saini stressed on the importance of exchange programs and said that they strengthen ties between nations. He also expressed his appreciation for the beautiful land of Korea and the diligence of its people.

One of the Korean teachers spoke about the exchange program being a great learning experience. He talked about implementing some of the school’s methods of teaching in the Korean schools and hoped that the exchange program would be a great success.

The Korean delegates will be staying with the host families till 11th February. They will be visiting Agra to see the Taj Mahal, and visit the Surajkunj Mela and various market places in Delhi.

A delegation comprising 40 Principals from Iran visited DPS R.K Puram on the 18th of January 2012. A warm floral welcome was extended to the guests on behalf of the Principal, Dr. D. R. Saini. The Vice Principal, Mrs.Shobha Mehta and the co-ordinator of the programme, Mrs.Prema Pandey were also present on the occasion. The objective of the visit was to strengthen the ties between India and Iran, particularly in the field of education.

The event commenced with a riveting performance by the school’s classical instrumental orchestra, followed by a rendition of the song ‘The lion sleeps tonight’ by the western music choir and a fusion dance performance that showcased the classical dance forms of Kathak, Bharatnatyam and Odissi.

The Principal, Dr. Saini addressed the guests and stressed on the close relations between the countries and looked forward to a continued exchange of ideas. He invited the students and teachers to visit the school and assured them of a comfortable stay.

One of the guests thanked the school for the hospitable welcome and stressed on the importance of maintaining strong ties between the two nations. Appreciating the methods of teaching in Indian institutes, he spoke of implementing them in Iranian schools and welcomed Indian students to visit Iran.

The event was a wonderful platform for the interaction between students and teachers of the two nations.

Delhi Public School, RK Puram had the privilege of hosting the Trinidad and Tobago Reciprocal Exchange Programme 2010-2011. A fifteen member team of students and teachers under the leadership of Dr. Asha Lata Pandey, Head of the Sanskrit Department, had earlier visited Swaha Hindu College, Trinidad in July 2010. In the reciprocal visit, a delegation comprising fourteen members led by the Principal of Swaha Hindu College, Pundit Balram Presad, arrived in the school on 14 December 2011.

The Principal, Dr. D.R Saini warmly welcomed them. The delegates stayed with their host families, which helped them bond even better. They visited the historical cities of Agra, Mathura, Vrindavan, Haridwar and Rishikesh. The students explored the school campus – classrooms, laboratories, libraries, music room etc and interacted with the Indian students and teachers, which provided them with a better understanding of the Indian education system.

A cultural programme was organized in their honour on 21st December presenting an insight into Indian culture. The Chief Guest for the occasion was Ms.Kiva Clarke, Deputy High Commissioner of Trinidad and Tobago. The guest of honour was Lady Shruti Rana from U.K. an acclaimed educationist who is well versed in Sanskrit, music and English. She is doing a commendable work in bringing the traditional knowledge systems in the main stream of education culture. Other guests included Mr. Habees Mohammed, Second Secretary along with the Principal Pundit Balram Presad, his wife Mrs Nalini Presad and Mr. and Mrs. Juteram. The programme commenced with a mesmerizing Indian classical instrumental item by the students, followed by Bharatnatyam-“a Pushpanjali” dance, a classical Russian Ballet performance, a fusion on ‘Satyameva Jayate’ combining traditional and modern dance and a contemporary duet which left everyone enraptured. The delegation was enchanted seeing the vibrant colours and the energy of the Indian dance forms. Students of DPS Shiksha Kendra, a school for the underprivileged run on the premises of the school, presented an exposition on the life of Krishna in the form of a dance drama. Diwakar, a student of class 11 mellifluously sang “chaupais” from “Ramayana”. It was followed by releasing of the first magazine of the Trinidad-India students exchange programme.

The delegation was presented a trophy as a token of appreciation by the host school. The Chief Guest, Ms. Kiva Clarke expressed her delight at visiting India and said that the hospitality of Indians left her awestruck. She was amazed at the immense talent that the Indian students displayed. She expressed her wish that the bonds created by this exchange programme would extend to the future and broaden their perspectives. Lady Shruti Rana sang a few Sanskrit shlokas and explained their relevance to the students.

The delegation concluded the programme with a quintessential performance showcasing some aspects of the culture of Trinidad and Tobago through the medium of group songs, dance and PowerPoint presentations. The presentation also showcased how Indian festivals like Dussehra, Diwali and Holi are celebrated all over Trinidad which left the audience enthralled.

Dr. Asha Lata Pandey, the coordinator of the programme delivered the vote of thanks.
The delegation will be taking a tour of the capital city to see its marvellous treasure trove of monuments like India Gate and Akshardham Temple. They will also have an interactive session and lunch with students of Shree Ram Institute and will have the privilege of meeting the Hon’ble Chief Minister, Sheila

Dixit at her residence during their stay. After a grand farewell the delegation will be leaving for Trinidad on 25th December.
Such cultural exchanges are memorable and provide unique opportunities for building bridges by sharing practices and learning about other cultures. It was not just the exchange between the schools but between the two cultures. The Trinidad-India students Exchange will leave behind golden memories to be cherished for years to come.

On the 19th of December, 2011, Delhi Public School, R.K.Puram was graced with a visit by Her Excellency, Ms. Jan Henderson, the High Commissioner of New Zealand for India. She was accompanied by Ms.Jugnu Roy, the Education Marketing Manager and students from New Zealand’s prestigious Auckland Grammar School.

An award ceremony was conducted in the school auditorium, wherein Her Excellency, Ms.Henderson presented the students with their respective awards. The ceremony commenced with the lighting of the lamp. This was followed by an Indian classical music performance. The Principal, Dr. D.R.Saini, addressed the gathering and presented the guests with gifts and flowers. Dr.Saini stressed on the need for fostering relationships and friendships between the students of New Zealand and India – dubbing this his new ‘mission’.

A ‘Durga Dance’ by the tiny tots of DPS East of Kailash captivated the audience. An ‘Apsara’ dance following this, by the dancers of DPS R.K.Puram, was met with great applause. The students of DPS Shiksha Kendra, a school for underprivileged children run on the premises of DPS R.K.Puram, performed a ‘Puppet’ dance, which is a folk dance originating from Rajasthan.

Her Excellency, Ms. Jan Henderson addressed the gathering and told the students that anything is possible with education especially when it is combined with passion, hard work and dedication. According to her, the school is not just about academic learning, but about honing talents and inculcating values. She was also eager to establish an association with DPS R.K.Puram. She presented the awards to students who have won laurels for the school in debating, quizzing, dance,music, creative writing and in various competitions in MUN and EXUN.

The Vice Principal, Mrs. Shobha Mehta delivered the vote of thanks and the ceremony came to a close with the Indian national anthem.

The school was also honoured by the visit of Prof. Richard W. Siegel. Prof. Siegel is from Troy, New York. He is currently working in Rensselaer Nanotechnology Center, Rensselaer Polytechnic University. He is fondly called the “Father of Nanotechnology”. He has been the editor of various journals and editorials; he is also the founder of “Nanoface Technologies”, one of the first companies dealing in nanotechnology and nano-materials. He is the director and producer of 3D-IMAX productions, “Molecules to the Max” a 40-minute animated production for children and is currently working on “Molecularium” a 20-minute film set to hit the screens in January 2012. The professor has developed a website for kids: www.molecularium.com which will go up next month.

Prof. Siegel addressed the students in the audio visual hall.The event began with a presentation on nanomaterials and nanotechnology. This was followed by an interactive session highlighting the everyday uses of nanotechnology including the history of development of nanotechnology in the USA. The professor shared the various aspects of nanotechnology and how it is “the next-big-thing” with the audience. The program ended with a slideshow of in-production movie stills.

Minister of Education, Government of Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

Delhi Public School R.K. Puram hosted the visit of His Excellency Mr. Farooq Wardak, Minister of Education, Government of Islamic Republic of Afghanistan on 10 December 2011. He was accompanied by Mr. Abdul Wassay Arian, Director General (Planning), Ministry of Education, Government of Afghanistan; Mr. Mohammad Azeem Sahak, Second Secretary, Embassy of Afghanistan (Education) and Mr. Srinivas, Adviser to Mr. Wardak.

The event opened with a melodious orchestra presentation, after which the Principal, Dr. Saini welcomed the gathering and highlighted the educational ties between India and Afghanistan. A lively Apsara dance performance by the senior students followed. The DPS Shiksha Kendra students put up an energetic patriotic dance, to an enthusiastic applause by the audience.

Raghav Gupta and Ishita Batra talked about DPS R.K. Puram and how it provides a holistic education to every student on its rolls. They showcased the achievements of the school in the academic session 2010-2011.

Mr. Ashok Chandra, Chairman, DPS Society, spoke next of the emphasis laid on both academics and co-curricular activities at DPS R.K. Puram, and called the students the ‘ambassadors, messengers and products’ of a great institution.

Beginning his address with a few lines in Hindi, Mr. Wardak was warmly received by the audience. Drawing on his experience in various leadership positions, he discussed the educational situation in Afghanistan, and very lucidly outlined the steps that his country was taking to meet the Millennium Development Goal of Universal Primary Education. He proudly discussed Afghanistan’s recent membership to the Global Partnership for Education, and believed it would make ‘the most vulnerable and disadvantaged children in hard-to-reach areas’ a priority. ‘Nothing will be sustained unless and until it will be owned by a global community’, he added. He concluded his speech by advising the students to identify, recognize and find solutions to their weaknesses.

The vote of thanks was given by Ms. Shobha Mehta, Vice Principal, who saluted the planning and determination of Mr. Wardak, and addressed the students, telling them to ‘accept whatever comes your way’.

The national anthems of India and Afghanistan provided a fitting conclusion to the programme. The delegation was then taken on a round of the school and the Sports Complex.

Delhi Public School, R.K. Puram had the opportunity of hosting a French delegation of four Principals from Paris. The delegates were accompanied by Mr. Mithun Ghosh from the French Embassy. The objective of the visit was to get a better understanding of the Indian educational system and to explore the various possibilities of collaboration between the two countries in the field of education.

Ms.Vanita Sehgal, Headmistress of the middle school, played the gracious host. The delegates were shown the infrastructure of the school which included a visit to the computer labs and classrooms equipped with the latest Smart class facilities. They also visited the Music basement for a traditional instrumental music performance by the students. Here they were each given a copy of the school’s French magazine.

Mr. Fatras and Ms. Michelle, two of the principals interacted with the French language students of class IX. The visitors appreciated the proficiency of the students in French. An Odissi dance by Sugandha was followed by a folk performance. Lastly, the visitors were treated to a French song by the school band before being taken for a stroll around the school campus.

On 18th November, 2011 the Honorary Ambassador of Philadelphia to India,Ms. Kanika Choudhary graced the school by her presence. Ms. Kanika Choudhary is a Wharton School graduate and has travelled to India with the objective of exploring opportunities that promote educational and cultural exchange between the city of Philadelphia and schools of India.

A brief cultural programme was organized by the students in her honour, which commenced with the Ahir Bhairav Raag presented by the School Orchestra. The next itemwas a self-composed A cappella, that talked about love,brotherhood and friendship in the world. Showcasing India’s vibrant culture,Avantika Sardana enthralled the audience by a Kathak dance performance, which was followed by a contemporary dance performance by the energetic dancers of the school.

Ms. Kanika Choudhary then addressed the students and thanked the school for its hospitality.She expressed her pride in her Indian heritage and how India has lived in her heart, despite her physical absence from her native country. She encouraged meritorious Indian students to enroll in American institutions and informed the students that this was the first American City Government to welcome students from India and across the globe. Expressing her concern on the phenomenon of “brain drain”,she clarified that the purpose of this initiative was to offer the students the best education and exposure, so that they can make their nation and the world a better place to live in.

The Principal, Dr. D.R. Saini welcomed the guest on behalf of the school and addressed her as the best‘representative of Indian culture’. He cited the achievements of the schools’ students who have qualified to the Ivy League Universities,and inspired the students to utilise this incredible opportunity to further make the school and the country proud.

The honourable guest then handed the first official copy of the City of Philadelphia’s initiative to Dr. Saini, marking the end of a very enriching and memorable programme.

Thursday, November 17, 2011 was a red-letter day for DPS R K Puram as Honourable Christy Clark, Premier, British Columbia as well as Mr. Stewart Beck, High Commissioner of Canada to India, visited the school along with their delegation , to enhance Canada’s great friendship with India, profile the great opportunities of public education in British Columbia, and to encourage young talent to study there.

After the Lighting of the Lamp ceremony, the guests proceeded to the Audio-Visual Hall for the cultural program. They were warmly welcomed by the Principal, Dr. D.R. Saini, with a token of appreciation. This was followed by scintillating cultural show put up by the students. It commenced with a truly absorbing Indian classical music piece based on ‘ Raag Ahir Bhairav’, which was followed by a vibrant and exuberant Marathi folk dance performance.

Dr. Saini then addressed the gathering and invited the guests to take over the podium. Dr. Arvind Gupta, CEO and Scientific Director of MITACS Inc. introduced the Premier, mentioning her love for education and her desire to reach out to the rest of the world, following which the Premier herself addressed the gathering on how India is ready to ‘step into its future, and become the world’s largest economy’. She also stressed on the importance of strengthening ties between the two nations and encouraged students to pursue higher studies in British Columbia. An interactive session took place. Students posed various questions to the Premier regarding the quality of education in the Canadian  universities, the costs involved, possibilities of immigration, availability of work permits while pursuing higher education, and also asked questions on the cold weather conditions and how they impacted student life.  Along with the information, the Premier told the students that the University of British Columbia (UBC)  is ranked 21^st in the world. She also presented a book on British Columbia to Dr.Saini, and said that she hoped many would read it and visit the province in the future.

It was indeed an enlightening experience for all students present there.

‘Nihon No Kaori’, the Annual Interschool Japanese Language Festival, organized by the DPS Society was held at DPS R.K Puram on 9th November 2011. The Principal, Dr. D.R. Saini, welcomed all the guests. Mr Ashok Chandra, Chairman of DPS Society also graced the occasion. The chief guest for the occasion was Mr Ryoji Noda, Director, Japan Information Center. The Guests of Honour were Mr Katsuma Doi, Director, The Japan Foundation and Mr Shinichi Yamanaka, Chief Representative, JICA. Other guests included Professor A Mani, Vice President Asia Pacific University, Japan; Mr Yuji Yamamoto, a calligraphy artist and the principals of various participating schools. 27 schools participated in the festival.

The objective of the festival was to celebrate and promote the Japanese language as well as the celebration of the Japanese spirit of ‘Wa’- harmony. The festival comprised six events, namely, poster making, calligraphy and fancy dress , group song, story telling and the ad zap competition, which were judged by eminent personalities from JOCV, JICA and JNU. These competitions showcased the talent of students from schools across Delhi and surrounding regions. The events saw some truly exuberant and enthralling performances. Mr Shinichi, Mr Doi and Mr Noda appreciated the display of Japanese culture. The Chairman addressed the students and expressed the view that, “learning a language cannot be the end in itself, we also need to learn about the culture and ethos.” An entertaining talk show was conducted about the similarities and dissimilarities of India and Japan.

Finally, the prize distribution ceremony was held. In the group song competition the second runners-up were DPS Sonepat and Bluebells School, the first runners up, Ramjas school, and the first prize went to DPS Rohini. For the fancy dress competition, second runners up were DPS Noida, first runners up DPS Maruti Kunj and the first prize was bagged by DPS Panipat. DPS Dwarka were the second runners-up in the story telling competition, the first runners up was Arwachin International School and the first prize was won by DPS R.K Puram.

In the calligraphy, the second runners were up Bluebells school; first runners up, DPS R.K Puram; and Arwachin International School and DPS Indirapuram tied for the first prize. For poster making, 2nd runners up prize went to DPS Greater Noida and DPS Vasant Kunj , first runners up to DPS East of Kailash and the first prize was won by Bluebells school. Finally, in the ad zap competition, second runners-up was DPS Indirapuram, first runners up, DPS RK Puram and the first prize went to DPS Noida.

The ceremony concluded with a vote of thanks by Ms Vanita Sehgal, the Headmistress of middle school and the co-ordinator of the event. This was followed by the national anthems of the two countries. The event as Prof Mani said, “provided a strong bridge between the two countries and the various schools”.

A delegation from the Ritsumeikan Asia Pacific University, comprising of Dr. A. Mani, Vice President, Prof. Ashok Chawla, Incharge India Affairs, Mr. Funaki, Counsellor, Mr. Satoshi Hata, GM Ritsumeikan India Office and Ms. Priyanka Bangia, Co-ordinator, Ritsumeikan India Office visited the school on Thursday, 3rd November 2011.

On their arrival, they lit ‘the lamp of knowledge’ in the Lighting of the Lamp ceremony, and then proceeded to attend the Morning Assembly conducted by the students of Class XII-V, where they were warmly greeted by the Principal, Dr. D. R. Saini. The students presented a song and dance medley and a scintillating power point presentation on their memories of school life, after which the guests showcased their university through a short video film, and also gave details of admission procedures etc. They were also guests at the UN Day Celebrations held subsequently, after which they took a round of the school with the Principal.

The visit greatly enhanced the students’ knowledge and understanding of the Japanese higher education system, culture and way of life, and was an enriching experience for one and all.