STATE TIMES NEWS
JAMMU: In a deeply inspiring and heart-warming interaction, the Principal JK Public School Kunjwani, Rajesh Rathore, called on the GOC-in-C Northern Command, Lieutenant General Pratik Sharma,-an illustrious alumnus whose journey stands as a beacon for generations of learners.
Rathore congratulated the Army Commander for bringing immense laurels and glory to his alma mater, UP Sainik School, Lucknow, and fondly reminisced about the stalwart teachers who shaped young cadets with indomitable spirit and unflinching self-belief.
He recalled how these mentors left no stone unturned in grooming students-instilling discipline, resilience, and a robust skill-set that empowered them to conquer the future’s inevitable hurdles.
Responding to Rathore’s query on the attributes of a future-ready student, Lt Gen Pratik Sharma articulated a compelling vision for progressive education. He emphasized that every forward-looking institution must equip learners with essential 21st-century competencies-critical and creative thinking, decision-making, problem-solving, communication, and collaboration-to thrive in an ever-evolving world.
Underscoring the values of self-reliance and self-discipline, the Army Commander stressed that every student should be groomed as an effective speaker and a prolific writer, capable of expressing ideas with clarity and conviction.
Highlighting the transformative power of sports, he added that each child must pursue at least one sporting discipline, as the playground imparts life lessons in teamwork, perseverance, leadership, and grace under pressure.
He further observed that holistic grooming through co-scholastic pursuits, namely, Art, Craft, Music, Dance, and Clubs, equips students with creativity, confidence, and balance for a lifetime.
Advocating strongly for NCC in schools, Lt Gen Sharma remarked that it instils strength, discipline, courage, leadership, and patriotism, nurturing citizens who are service-oriented and nation-first in spirit.
The interaction concluded on a note of shared purpose-celebrating the timeless bond between alma mater and alumni, and reaffirming a collective commitment to shaping compassionate, competent, and courageous global citizens. The meeting stood as a powerful testament to how values sown in classrooms can blossom into exemplary service to the nation.