The Benefits of Co-curricular Activities: From Leadership to Life Skills

 

I was always someone who preferred spending time alone, and I found it hard to step out of my comfort zone. I became more dependent on my parents and was less interested in socialising or exploring new activities. It wasn’t until my parents decided to send me to a boarding school that I realised how important it was to push myself beyond my limits. They believed that being in a new environment with new challenges would help me become more independent and develop essential life skills. After some consideration, I agreed to go, thinking this would be a turning point in my personal growth.

The transition to The Mann School was initially overwhelming. At first, I struggled to make friends and felt isolated, missing the comfort of home and my parents. It was hard for me to open up to others, and I felt out of place. However, as I started engaging in different activities, I began to connect with my roommates, Stanzin Mentok and Vridhi, who became my close friends. Through their support and the encouragement of others around me, I gradually overcame my shyness and started embracing new opportunities. The experience of living away from home and engaging in co-curricular activities allowed me to develop essential skills like independence, communication, and teamwork.

To help myself grow, I decided to get involved in a variety of co-curricular activities. I started playing sports like basketball, football, and badminton, and I also tried swimming and horse riding. These activities helped me develop physical strength, endurance, and the ability to work as part of a team. I also discovered a love for public speaking and music, which became two of my biggest passions. I participated in basketball tournaments at the inter-house, zonal, and All-India IPSC levels. I also got involved in music activities, like singing at school celebrations and playing guitar for Young Mozart. These experiences built my confidence, made me more outgoing, and helped me become more self-reliant.

Looking back, I can see that I have transformed into a much more confident and independent person. The school has played a huge role in my personal growth, helping me develop important life skills that will benefit me in the future. Co-curricular activities taught me how to balance academics with personal development. I no longer saw these activities as a chore or something the school imposed on me; instead, I viewed them as opportunities for growth.

Co-curricular activities are incredibly important for my generation. They aren’t just about academics; they help us develop essential life skills that are needed to succeed in society and in the real world. Through my own experiences, I can see how these activities have positively shaped my life. I learned the value of balancing different interests, making new friends, and building social skills.

From my journey, I can confidently say that co-curricular activities play a significant role in shaping who we are. They help us develop new skills, boost our confidence, and open our minds to new experiences. I highly encourage everyone to get involved in various co-curricular activities because they promote leadership, self-growth, and personal development.

Rudrikaa
XI C
The Mann School

From Comfort to Confidence: Alcina’s Life at Boarding School

Alcina was a girl who lived with her parents and grandparents, who followed the same routine every day: going to school, completing homework, and spending time playing with her friends. All the household chores, such as laundry, cooking, and cleaning, were taken care of by the adults. Alcina never had to worry about at home.

One day, her parents realized that this lifestyle wouldn’t help Alcina develop essential life skills or become independent. With a heavy heart, they decided to send her to a boarding school – The Mann School.

At first, Alcina struggled with homesickness. She didn’t know anyone and felt lonely. However, things began to change when she met Sukriti, who soon became her close friend. With Sukriti’s support, Alcina learned to take care of herself. She started doing things on her own, like ironing her clothes and managing daily chores without help. These tasks were challenging at first, but over time, Alcina adapted to her new environment.

Life in a boarding school followed a structured routine, and Alcina quickly learned the importance of time management. Balancing studies and extracurricular activities became a key part of her daily life. Alcina discovered a passion for sports, especially football. She worked hard, and soon her talent shone through, earning her a spot on the school’s teams.

Through the opportunities provided by The Mann School, Alcina developed a sense of independence and responsibility. She learned how to take care of her health, manage her time, and make the most of the resources available to her. These skills not only helped her succeed at school but also prepared her for the life beyond it.

Alcina’s journey from being a dependent child at home to an independent student at boarding school shaped her character. The experiences she gained at The Mann School transformed her into a confident, capable young woman, ready to face the challenges of the future.

Alcina Biakthantluangi

XI D

Education In The Current Scenario

After reflecting on the difference between literacy and education, it’s clear that while academics form the foundation, a well-rounded education requires practical knowledge and skills to prepare children for real-life challenges. 

In many contexts, the focus tends to be on the development of certain segments of society, often overlooking the basic needs of the majority. When essential needs like food, clean water, and shelter remain unaddressed, aspirations for broader progress can feel unattainable. 

The educational schemes in place often struggle with both implementation and effectiveness. While the aim is to provide education to every child, the quality of that education is often overlooked. Simply placing children in classrooms without engaging them meaningfully does not fulfill educational goals. Many students may view education as secondary to immediate needs, such as food provided by government programs. 

Effective educational initiatives require thoughtful planning and a commitment to quality. It’s crucial to ensure that not only are policies created, but that they are also actively monitored and followed. By focusing on meaningful implementation, we can work towards a more inclusive and impactful educational environment. 

Ritwija Mishra 

Asst. teacher All Subjects

Is Rain for Everyone?

As we enjoy the rainy season, I've got a thought. What happens when you are lying on your bed, which is near the window, and suddenly you hear the pattering sounds of the raindrops, which suddenly changes your mood? Your face will definitely be lit with a smile because you know it is the ‘rain’. You will try planning different activities, either having tasty food, watching the rain through the window or going down and enjoying a rain dance. You automatically will feel happy because of the rain.

However, is it really the same for everyone? No, it is not. Not everybody is fortunate enough to have a cozy bed to lie in when it rains. Not everybody gets to enjoy the comfort of cozy homes during rain. Not everyone gets blissful dreams. For many of them, this rain becomes a nightmare of destruction. I have seen animals seeking shelter under trees and the tin roofs of the small roadside tea stalls.

Passing by people shoo away these animals and try to shrink themselves under the limited space of these shops. The poor animals are left shivering and drenching on the roads. The poor people whose houses were broken by winds and storms find shelter on the railway or other stations. Some get soaked in this heavy rain and some have the luck of admiring the rain and its beauty in their warm and cozy homes. Not everyone perceives rain the same way as we do. For some, it could be the worst time of the year!

By Tamanna Sangwan

9th A

7270

National Education Policy-2020

Education is the backbone of a nation and NEP provides the strength to it. The National Education Policy 2020 is a comprehensive framework that outlines the government's approach to education, covering all levels from early childhood to higher education. It serves as guidance for educational institutions, policymakers, educators, and stakeholders, aiming to address the hindrances in imparting education.

It focuses on:-

1. Holistic Education: It focuses on the holistic development of the students. It encourages a multidisciplinary approach to learning, nurturing creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills among students.
2. Equitable Access: Access to knowledge must be made easily achievable to all with an inclusive approach.
3. Quality and Excellence: NEP-2020 focuses on imparting quality education to all with continuous professional development and induction of the latest technology.
4. Promotion of Languages: NEP-2020 promotes multilingualism and the preservation of regional languages. A student can learn better in his/her own language. Knowledge knows no medium; it can be attained/imparted in any language.
5. Technology Integration: We must embrace the latest technology to upgrade our teaching and learning strategies.

The National Education Policy represents a visionary roadmap for transforming education, fostering innovation, and equipping students with the skills needed to sustain in a rapidly changing world that needs skilled people in the times to come. We can achieve it by prioritising holistic development, quality enhancement, equitable access, learning of different languages, and integration of technology. It aims to empower the learner/teacher to adopt a better, easier, and more practical approach to learning. NEP-2020 is quite capable of bringing a paradigm shift in the education system. It sets the stage for a brighter future where education serves as the most significant way of national development and individual empowerment. In today’s scenario, NEP-2020 is the need of the hour to empower our teaching and learning communities with the latest technological advancements in the field of education. Hence let us all pledge to embrace NEP-2020 with full enthusiasm and determination.

Dheeraj Kumar

Facing Fears, Finding Comfort

I used to fear a lot of things when I was young. There was a long list in my head which usually had ghosts, strict teachers, and bugs and insects at the top. One night, my elder sister and I decided to sleep in our grandfather's room so that we could stay up late and enjoy ourselves. He used to have a teenie-tiny bulb that used to stay on throughout the night, which reflected enough light to see your surroundings. By the time I was arranging my blanket and pillow all the lights were turned off except the teenie-tiny bulb. Suddenly, a brown thing near my feet caught my attention and my eyes widened with fear as I jerked my head towards it. I for sure knew it was a moth and hated the way it felt on my skin. I jumped around and screamed while my sister laughed at me and the moth flew around. I was sure I would take my revenge later. I was also sure my grandpa wasn't angry but serious when he scolded me about how I was such a big creature as compared to that tiny one and how it could hardly harm me. His words instantly affected me and I calmed down but how was the little me supposed to tell him about the uncomfortable and disgusting feeling? Anyway, I knew I would have lost the debate against him after all so I chose to shut up and nod. Now whenever I see ‘that tiny one’ his words come to my head and make me miss him dearly.

Another day, I was just travelling to the top floor of a building through a lift with few people in it when it suddenly stopped. I had read about how people died when a lift broke down in some articles and got scared. But later I thought about how if I die, at least I won't die alone, and many will go away with me.

And I smiled, I think.

Kaveri (X)

The Magical Power of Politeness: Unlocking the Importance of 'Sorry,' 'Thank You,' and 'Please'

 

In the hustle and bustle of our daily lives, where communication often takes place through screens and emojis, the magic of simple, yet profound, words like "sorry," "thank you," and "please" cannot be overstated. These words are not mere social niceties; they are potent tools that build bridges, mend relationships, and create a culture of respect and understanding. As the saying goes, "Kind words can be short and easy to speak, but their echoes are truly endless."

Sorry- The Healing Elixir:

The word "sorry" holds the power to mend rifts and heal wounds. It is a magical incantation that demonstrates humility, accountability, and a genuine desire for reconciliation. As the Dalai Lama wisely noted, "When you lose, don't lose the lesson." Apologising is not a sign of weakness but a testament to emotional intelligence and the willingness to nurture healthy relationships.

Thank You- Gratitude's Enchanting Spell:

"Thank you" is a magical phrase that transcends cultures and languages, expressing appreciation and acknowledgment. Gratitude, as Oprah Winfrey reminds us, "shifts your focus from what your life lacks to the abundance that is already present." Cultivating a habit of saying "thank you" not only uplifts others but also nurtures a positive and appreciative mindset within ourselves.

Please- The Key to Collaboration:

"Please" is the gentle request that opens doors to cooperation and collaboration. It is a word that acknowledges the autonomy and goodwill of others. By incorporating "please" into our requests, we cultivate an atmosphere of mutual respect and consideration. The poet Kahlil Gibran captured this sentiment beautifully: "I have learned silence from the talkative, toleration from the intolerant, and kindness from the unkind; yet strange, I am ungrateful to these teachers."

Respectful Communication:

The magical trio of "sorry," "thank you," and "please" lays the foundation for respectful communication. These words serve as a language of empathy, fostering an environment where individuals feel heard, valued, and understood. When we use these magical words sincerely, we contribute to the creation of a positive and harmonious community, be it in classrooms, workplaces, or personal relationships.

In conclusion, the importance of incorporating magical words like "sorry," "thank you," and "please" into our daily interactions cannot be overstated. These words are not just pleasantries; they are tools that foster emotional intelligence, build strong connections, and contribute to a culture of respect and understanding. As we navigate the complexities of our interconnected world, let us not underestimate the transformative power of these simple, yet enchanting, expressions. In the eloquent words of Aesop, "No act of kindness, no matter how small, is ever wasted."

Pallavi Trivedi

PRT English

HORIZON

The dawning sun on the horizon,

Another day comes soon,

The ones before enliven, the ones which shall ensue.

Though the day before was bright,

We look towards the next,

The chance to fly new kites, to strive to do our best.


The steps which we have tripped on,

The days that went away,


Though we might just trip again, there’s a chance to soar high.

Even when the rainfall stops,


The next monsoon is bound to come,

Another patter, another drop like another memory under the sun.


As the heavens continue to glow,

We know not what is yet to be,


Forward, more friendships grow, like flowers under the pollen bees.

For even in the dusty dunes,


Barren fields or foreign seas,

Hope is there yet to be found, it depends on us to seek.

– By Nathan ‘10A’

"Unlocking Minds and Imaginations: The Timeless Importance of Reading"

 

In a world bustling with technological advancements and rapid changes, the timeless practice of reading holds a crucial place in shaping young minds. As the eminent author Dr Seuss once said, "The more that you read, the more things you will know. The more that you learn, the more places you'll go." This resonates with the profound impact that reading can have on individuals, transcending time and offering boundless opportunities for personal and intellectual growth.

Reading serves as a gateway to a treasure trove of knowledge and ideas. As Nobel laureate, Isaac Bashevis Singer aptly put it, "When you betray somebody else, you also betray yourself." Reading broadens our horizons, fostering a deeper understanding of the world and enhancing critical thinking skills. It's a journey through which students can explore diverse perspectives and cultivate empathy.

The words we encounter in books are like stepping stones to eloquence. "The limits of my language mean the limits of my world," said philosopher Ludwig Wittgenstein. Reading exposes students to an extensive array of words, enhancing their vocabulary and communication skills. This linguistic dexterity not only aids academic success but also empowers individuals to articulate their thoughts more effectively.

Scientific studies affirm that reading stimulates brain activity, fostering cognitive development. Acclaimed author Albert Einstein once remarked, "The only thing that you absolutely have to know is the location of the library." Reading exercises the brain, improving concentration, memory retention, and analytical skills. These cognitive benefits are invaluable assets that extend beyond the academic realm into all facets of life.

Reading is a passport to different worlds, offering an escape from reality. As celebrated author J.K. Rowling asserted, "I do believe something very magical can happen when you read a good book." Imagination flourishes as readers immerse themselves in captivating narratives, fostering creativity, and providing a much-needed respite from the demands of daily life.

In conclusion, the importance of reading cannot be overstated. It is a timeless practice that not only imparts knowledge but also moulds character, enriches language, stimulates cognitive functions, and sparks the flames of imagination. As we navigate the digital age, let us not forget the enduring power of a good book. In the words of Frederick Douglass, "Once you learn to read, you will be forever free." Encourage the love of reading, for it is a gift that keeps on giving, shaping the minds of the future leaders and innovators of our world.

 

Ujakshi Mann

(Assistant Teacher) 

Mental Health

Mental fitness implies a state of psychological well-being. It denotes having a positive sense of how we feel, think, and act which improves one’s ability to enjoy life. It contributes to one’s inner ability to be self-determined. It is a proactive, positive term and forsakes negative thoughts that may come to mind.

An emotionally fit and stable person always feels vibrant, truly alive and can easily manage emotionally difficult situations. To be emotionally strong, one has to be mentally fit too. A mentally fit person is always in a good mood and can easily cope up with situations of distress and depression resulting in regular training contributing to a good physical fitness standard. Many emotional factors have a significant effect on our mental fitness levels like depression, aggression, negative thinking, frustration, fear, etc.

The way we physically fall sick, we can also fall sick mentally. Mental illness is the instability of one’s health, which includes changes in emotion, thinking, and behaviour. Mental illness can be caused due to stress or a reaction to a certain incident. It could also arise due to genetic factors, biochemical imbalances, child abuse or trauma, social disadvantage, poor physical health conditions, etc. Mental illness is curable. One can seek help from the experts in this particular area or can overcome this illness by positive thinking and changing their lifestyle.

So many people don’t consider their mental health as important as physical health, it's high time to care about mental health.

We, at The Mann School, believe in training our students to lead a successful and comfortable life physically and mentally. We offer regular fitness exercises like physical training, yoga, and swimming as a great medicine for curing mental health. Besides this, it is imperative to have a good diet and enough sleep. Hence, we offer a balanced diet to our students and sufficient time to sleep. Counsellors also help students to overcome their fears by discussing the problems and motivating them.

Arpit Sharma

Special Educator (PRT)