- Event Date:
16-Jan-2025
- Updated On:
21-Jan-2025
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Total Photo(s):
10
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Description:
From, the 16th of January, 2025, I had the privilege of representing my school at the 7th JPIC General Meet, a three-day event filled with insightful activities and events. With 37 schools participating all across the countries of India and Nepal, this Meet focused on the theme of fostering inclusivity, environmental awareness and teamwork. The program, hosted by Loreto Convent, Asansol, provided a platform for learning, collaboration, and fun.
FIRST DAY -
The first day of the event was started off with the speech of the principal of the host school welcoming and telling us about the, City of brotherhood, Asansol. The opening ceremony included beautiful synchronised traditional dances like Bihu, Kathak, Bharatnatyam and many more. Students also sang religious songs of Hinduism, Sikhism, Jainism, Zoroastrianism etc. This was followed by the felicitations of the guests. Then we had an insightful speech by the IBVM Head of Province, Sr. Sabrina Edwards, wherein she stated that Fostering Inclusivity is breaking down our walls and barriers and becoming aware of our stereotypes, prejudices and biases. Sister further declared the JPIC Annual Meet of 2025, officially open.
The first session was conducted by, Maulana Imamdullah Rashidi, a local of Asansol for almost 4 decades now. Mr. Maulana, recalled how his son of 16 years of age was killed in the riots of Asansol and how he chose to overcome it. Mr. Maulana truly delivered an inspiring speech.
Our second resource person of the day was Ms. Aarna Srivastava, a 12-year-old from Delhi who has been fighting plastic pollution since a tender age. An activity was also arranged which included a pamphlet wherein a problem related to plastic was stated. We were divided into groups and we had to write down the impacts or challenges of the problem given to us and brainstorm solutions for the problem and concluded with a slogan for the same.
The day was concluded with a bonfire organized by the host school. It was a wonderful opportunity to bond with the other participants as games like newspaper dance were involved in the activity. All the students took time to relax and enjoy the lively atmosphere.
SECOND DAY-
The Second Day was packed with engaging team building activities led by, Mr. Sumit Bandhopadhayaya, our resource person for the day.
The morning began with a unique game where we had to run in sync with the resource person, maintaining the same pace and ensuring no physical contact with others. This activity emphasized coordination and attentiveness of a person and mainly the ability to reach your own goal without disturbing others.
Later, we sat with our groups, composed of strangers, and noted each other’s positive qualities. This exercise built trust and appreciation among us.
One memorable task involved working in groups of seven on a blanket, symbolizing a boat, which was in danger due to the sharks lurking around. Our challenge was to flip the blanket without stepping off it, teaching us the importance of teamwork and problem-solving.
Another intriguing activity involved passing a touch in a circle while blindfolded. The resource person randomly removed participants from the circle, creating an atmosphere of suspense and focus. This also helped in showcasing how a person no matter what should work towards to achieving their goal, in this case passing the touch to the next person.
Another light-hearted activity involved a game of passing dance moves down a line, which humorously transformed by the time it reached the last participant. Hence, distorting the truth.
The final activity of the day was the ‘potato game,’ where two members of each team had to memorize the appearance of a potato and identify it from a pile. This activity highlighted observation skills and individuality.
The evening ended on a high note with a disco organized by the host school, providing a fun and energetic close to the day.
THIRD DAY-
The final day began with skit presentations prepared by each group, focusing on various social issues. The creativity and passion displayed by the participants were truly inspiring.
The closing ceremony was conducted by the Kolkata schools. Each participant dressed to represent a different Indian state and an associated element with a narration in the background. The celebration included a dance, a song and a photo session to commemorate the event. It was a heartwarming conclusion to the enriching experience.
The Annual JPIC Meet was an incredible experience that provided valuable lesson in leadership, collaboration, and cultural appreciation. The focus on fostering inclusivity was evident throughout the event, as participants worked together to embrace diversity and address societal challenges. The three days were filled with meaningful activities, thought-provoking discussions, and unforgettable memories. I am grateful for the opportunity to represent my school and look forward to applying the lessons learned to future endeavours.