Dr M.K. Sehgal and Chairperson Dr Rajni Sehgal during the Founders’ Day celebration organised at St Lawrence International School in Jagadhri and Vyasapur.
Students participate in prayer, speeches, creative activities and plantation drive as the school founder inspires them to pursue excellence with discipline and determination
YAMUNANAGAR / PEN OF DEMOCRACY NEWS DESK
St Lawrence International School, Pabni Road, Jagadhri, and Shahpur Road, Vyasapur, celebrated Founders’ Day with great enthusiasm, warmth and a deeply emotional spirit. The annual celebration was organised to mark the birth anniversary of Dr M.K. Sehgal, Chairman of Shri Siddhivinayak Educational Trust and a noted educationist, recognising his contribution to the field of education and his continuing role in inspiring generations of students.
The programme was held in an atmosphere of celebration, gratitude and respect. It began with Dr M.K. Sehgal and Chairperson Dr Rajni Sehgal lighting the ceremonial lamp before the idols of Lord Ganesha, regarded as the remover of obstacles, and Goddess Saraswati, the symbol of knowledge and learning. Floral tributes were offered, followed by prayers for the bright future and well-being of all students. The occasion was further enriched with the recitation of the Sanskrit prayer, “Sarve Bhavantu Sukhinah,” expressing the wish for happiness and well-being for all.
To mark the special occasion, the school organised a range of academic, creative and motivational activities for students. These included a special prayer assembly, speeches, a drawing competition and a plantation drive. The activities were designed not only to celebrate the Founders’ Day but also to encourage students to reflect on the values of education, discipline, creativity, environmental responsibility and purposeful living.
A plantation activity was carried out by Dr M.K. Sehgal to spread the message of environmental conservation and responsible coexistence with nature. Students were encouraged to understand the importance of protecting the environment and contributing towards a greener future. The initiative also underlined the belief that education must go beyond classrooms and inspire young people to become responsible citizens.
During the programme, students were introduced to the life, achievements and notable contribution of Dr M.K. Sehgal to the field of education. They were encouraged to draw inspiration from his journey and understand the importance of perseverance, commitment and continuous learning in achieving meaningful success.
One of the most touching moments of the celebration came during the special prayer assembly, when students collectively presented a melodious rendition of “Happy Birthday Sir.” The heartfelt presentation filled the atmosphere with warmth and emotion, reflecting the affection and respect shared by the students and the school community for the founder.
Expressing his gratitude for the celebration and the affection shown by the school family, Dr M.K. Sehgal thanked the students, teachers and organisers. Addressing the students, he emphasised that success in life cannot be achieved without struggle, discipline and sustained hard work.
He said that no great personality in the world had achieved success without facing challenges and difficulties. Students, therefore, should learn to perform their duties with faith, sincerity, honesty and dedication, regardless of the obstacles they encounter.
Dr Sehgal also introduced students to the concepts of globalisation and glocalisation, encouraging them to understand and embrace opportunities emerging across the world while remaining connected to their culture, values and roots. He said that the modern student must be prepared to think globally while preserving a strong sense of identity and cultural grounding.
Encouraging students to set meaningful ambitions, he urged them to aspire to accomplish something distinctive and significant in their lives—work that would leave a lasting contribution and earn them a place of honour in history.
Chairperson Dr Rajni Sehgal thanked the students and everyone involved in organising the Founders’ Day celebrations and extended her best wishes for their bright future. Speaking about the personality and achievements of Dr M.K. Sehgal, she highlighted his notable contribution to education and said that his work in the field had received recognition at the national level.
She encouraged students to define a clear purpose in life and work consistently towards achieving it. Success, she said, has no shortcut. Hard work, patience and determination are the real foundations of achievement. She urged students to remain focused on their goals and continue their efforts even when faced with challenges.
The programme concluded with teachers collectively presenting Dr M.K. Sehgal with bouquets and birthday cards and extending their heartfelt wishes on his birthday. They prayed for his long life, good health and continued happiness.
Sweets were distributed among all students and staff members at the conclusion of the celebration.
The Founders’ Day programme emerged as a meaningful occasion of respect and gratitude towards the founder while also providing students with an opportunity to connect with his inspiring life and values. The celebration reinforced the message that education, discipline, perseverance, cultural values and a sense of responsibility towards society are essential elements in shaping a meaningful future. Swaranjali, Naman and Harshita were also present on the occasion.