Stanes Anglo-Indian Higher Secondary School, Coimbatore, celebrated its 164th Annual Day with grand celebrations highlighting the institution’s long-standing educational legacy and the achievements of its students.
The highlight of the programme was the distribution of prizes to students for their academic proficiency and excellence. Tiger House was adjudged the Best House in Academics.
Chairperson of Stanes Educational Institutions Mrs.Mercy Oomen, Correspondent Mr.Philip R. J. Fowler, Dr. Sucheeta Ramachandran, Governing Board Member, Chief Administrative Officer Mr. V. M. John, Principal Mr.P. A. John Stephen of Stanes Anglo-Indian Higher Secondary School, Principal Mrs.Eileen Jethro of Stanes CBSE School, Principal Mrs.Zenette JeyaPrakash of Stanes ICSE School and Principal Mrs.Georgina of Stanes International School, Past Student Association President Mr.Rajkumar, Wholetime Director at T Stanes and Company Mrs.Lakshmi Narayanan attended the event.
Dr. Srinivasan, M.D. (Psychiatry), D.P.M., Senior Consultant Psychiatrist at KMCH and pioneer of Positive Psychotherapy, was the Chief Guest. Addressing the gathering, he spoke on the importance of freedom, discipline, emotional well-being and responsible growth among students.
He said true freedom did not mean the absence of rules and regulations, but a transition from external governance to self-governance. Freedom, he stressed, must go hand in hand with responsibility and self-discipline.
He advised parents and teachers to correct children’s mistakes rather than resort to punishment. Punishment, he said, might produce short-term results but could lead to resentment, retreat, revenge and reward-seeking behaviour in the long run.
Highlighting the challenges faced by the younger generation, Dr. Srinivasan stressed the importance of self-esteem, self-worth and emotional regulation. He said difficulties in handling emotions were among the major concerns affecting young people.
He urged parents to be positive role models, noting that children were more likely to follow actions than words. Students, he said, should learn to become their own heroes while drawing inspiration from people who demonstrated positive qualities.
He also emphasised social skills, sports participation and resilience, saying students should be exposed to manageable challenges under proper guidance to develop the ability to face setbacks.The Chief Guest further stressed the importance of active listening and encouraged parents and teachers to focus on children’s strengths rather than constantly highlighting their shortcomings.
Principal Mr.P. A. John Stephen delivered the welcome address and presented the annual report, highlighting the school’s activities and achievements during the year. Former principals, former teachers, past students, parents and students participated in the celebrations. Congratulating the prize winners and students, the Chief Guest said the achievements and memories created during school life would remain cherished for years to come.
