In a significant initiative fostering social responsibility among youth, Shivalik Public School in Mohali recently concluded a week-long residential camp for its National Service Scheme (NSS) volunteers. The event, packed with community service and awareness activities, left a lasting impact on both participants and the local community.
A Week of Service and Learning
The camp was held from February 12 to February 18, 2024, on the school premises. A dedicated group of 52 NSS volunteers, along with their program officers, immersed themselves in a schedule designed to contribute to societal welfare and personal growth. The camp's inauguration set a purposeful tone, with the ceremonial lighting of the lamp followed by the serene recitation of Saraswati Vandana.
Principal R.P. Pandey addressed the gathering, emphasizing the core philosophy of the NSS. He inspired the young volunteers by highlighting that the spirit of 'service to mankind is service to God' should be their guiding principle. His words underscored the camp's objective: to move beyond the classroom and make a tangible difference in the surrounding community.
Hands-On Community Engagement
The volunteers translated this philosophy into action through a series of well-planned activities. A major focus was environmental stewardship, demonstrated by a tree plantation drive. The students took up the task of beautifying and greening the school's sports ground, actively planting saplings to enhance the campus ecosystem.
Their service extended beyond the school gates. The NSS unit organized a comprehensive cleanliness drive in the nearby village of Behra. This initiative not only helped in sanitizing the area but also served as a practical lesson in civic duty and communal harmony. Furthermore, the volunteers conducted an awareness rally in the village, educating residents on critical contemporary issues including drug abuse, female foeticide, and environmental conservation.
Recognition and Valediction
The camp's conclusion was marked by a formal valedictory function. The chief guest for the closing ceremony was Dr. R.S. Brar, the Principal of Sri Sukhmani Institute of Engineering and Technology, Derabassi. Dr. Brar commended the relentless efforts and enthusiasm shown by the student volunteers throughout the seven days.
In his address, he lauded the school for organizing such a meaningful camp that effectively bridges the gap between academic learning and social contribution. The ceremony also saw the program officers, Ravinder Kaur and Sukhdeep Kaur, being recognized for their pivotal role in planning and supervising the camp's myriad activities. Their guidance was instrumental in ensuring the camp's smooth execution and educational value for all participants.
The successful organization of this NSS camp by Shivalik Public School, Mohali, stands as a testament to the institution's commitment to holistic education. It provided students with a powerful platform to develop leadership skills, empathy, and a profound sense of citizenship, proving that education's true purpose extends far beyond textbooks.
