Education, Amma says, is of two types: education for life and education for living. While the former is essential for developing the courage and wisdom needed to face the various challenges life throws in front of us, the latter is essential for acquiring and sharpening skills in various streams that can help us lead our lives comfortably. Amrita Vidyalayam, in its continued effort to impart both of these types of education to its wards, held a Summer camp for three days for its Kannur students in the month of April, 2007.
The camp, beginning on the 23rd of April, 2007, and inaugurated by Prof. Mukundan, Retired Principal, S.N. College, went about systematically inspiring the children creatively, raising their awareness about society, honing their communicative skills, and imparting relaxation techniques, to name a few. The proportion of work and play was just right to catch the children’s mind and focus them on their chosen path in life.
Yoga session in progress.
Days began with the chanting of Amma’s Ashtothram followed by yoga. A highlight
of the camp was a beautifully rendered session by Mr. Vanidas Elayavoor, aimed at raising the children’s awareness about their life and also about society.
Each person’s ideas are as unique as their fingerprint. In its effort to imprint on the young minds the power of a thought or an idea, clay modeling sessions were organized in creativity classes where children could feel the thrill of seeing their own ideas take shape in clay forms. Counseling and personality development sessions were also conducted by Mr. Janardhanan and by Mr. Balakrishna Kurup, during the course of the camp.
Adding finishing touches.....
The teachers themselves took upon the task of serving food to their students in
a step towards removing unwarranted fears and barriers that might have formed around themselves.
In an era where barriers of place and language are becoming virtually non-existent, it is imperative that the students become well versed in foreign languages so as to shine with their talent anywhere in the world. To this end, a class with Sri. Ramdas, Principal at Valapattinam Government School was conducted which focused on simplifying the usage and learning of the universally accepted language, English.
Food for the mind and body as well.
Games, bhajans and fieldwork were also organized for the overall development
of the child’s mind and body. Everyday at night, all the children and staff members would assemble for a cultural feast. It was an opportunity for the kids to express their talent in the cultural side.
On the last day, Br. Vivekamrita Chaithanya from M. A. Math, Kozhikode, interacted with the children and stressed the importance of values and discipline in life.
Whatever one experiences in childhood leaves an indelible mark on the mind. Keeping this in mind Amrita has been organizing various camps for students to help children focus on their goals and ambitions in life. Amrita hopes this camp, too, has helped the children in gaining a deeper clarity of vision and skills. |
