Fr. Ignatius Lakra S.J.

Principal

Four things a man must learn to do

If he would make his record true,

To think without confusion clearly.

To love his fellowmen sincerely

To act from honest motives purely

To trust in God and Heaven securely,

Henry Van Dyke

It is said, plain living and high thinking has become the feature of the past. High living and plain thinking have become the feature of the present. There has been a steady deterioration in the value system of the present society. It is increasingly becoming clear that several of the ethical principles such as, adherence to truth and non-violence; temperance in speech and conduct; religious tolerance and brotherhood; spirit of charity and sacrifice; value of patience and simplicity etc. are losing their pre- eminent position. Today what is particularly dangerous is that the way the young mind of school pupils gets through their exposure to all sorts of films and media, religious fundamentalism, terrorism, and corruption. Confucius said, “If a man carefully cultivates values in his conduct, he may still err a little, but he will not be far from the standard of truth.”

Therefore, a value-based quality education is the need of the hour. A curriculum along with formal learning should integrate value formation in our educational institutions. This type of learning will lead to the development of all round personality of the students and make him competent to face the challenges of the modern times, and a productive citizen of the country. Still further education is also guidance which helps a student to make a right choice between numerous alternatives. It aims at aiding the student to grow in his independence and ability to be responsible for himself. Good education enables young minds to develop their hidden abilities.

Wherever guidance being an integral part of the education it concerns the entire individual which enables young people to attain a life that is individually satisfying and socially productive.

'The ends of all knowledge must be building up of character', said Mahatma Gandhi. Therefore, every system of education should try to promote values and morals which are essential for a healthy growth and all-round development. Then it can be rightly said “Character building is the essence of education and all-round development of the person is the mission of education.”

Therefore, at St. John's English Medium School we strive towards achieving the above-mentioned goals of education to the best of our ability. Yet it is a long journey to tread. Of course, to achieve these goals we teachers, students, and parents and the society at large, need to play a responsible role.

Invest in your children, Give them your time, your love. They are the future.