A V E
Established: 1995
SPECIAL ISSUE
Keynote speakers
glimpses of the barazza sessions Pg. 3
Yash Johri & Miguel Queah
Pg. 2 & 3
Saturday, August 1st 2020
Photo Spread of all Paricipating Delegates Pg. 10 & 11
As human knowledge failed and wisdom sought refuge in hope, reality came to a standstill. Dusk descended rapidly while we clung to the soothsayer’s eternal message. Glimpses of dawn can be seen as splashes of orange tints the watery ink. Like stars, we lay strewn far apart in this multiple universe. Now we come Together, to save Ours. -Anoushka S. Rabha, Associate Editor
A Word From The
Chairperson -Gayatri Sapru, XII
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n the wake of the Coronavirus pandemic, the Round Square Committee of the Assam Valley School decided to organise and host a Conference based on the pillars of leadership and internationalism in order to involve young individuals, the children of today, and the citizens of tomorrow to analyse how vital and crucial leadership is, in determining the intensity of the virus in various countries. Owing to the pandemic our lives have come to a halt, virtually a standstill. But we wanted to take this forward to evaluate how adaptive and responsive leadership is instrumental in shaping
the way we function today. “We are weathering the same storm, but we are not in the same boat.” These words that started out as a blogpost on the internet have made it as the tagline of this conference due to the sheer truth and metaphorical accuracy in them. If I’m being completely honest, be it The Yemen Crisis or The Black Lives Matter Movement, The Hong-Kong Protests or the Fight for Gender Equality - good leadership is hard to come by. Which is why this conference is of great consequence. With that I would like to conclude by borrowing a few words from my favourite leader, Michelle Obama, “Be focused, Be determined, Be hopeful, Be empowered. Empower yourselves with a good education, then use that education to build a country worthy of your boundless promise. Lead by example, with hope, never fear.”
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Weekly Newsletter of The Assam Valley Express
The Opening Ceremony E
ven as we navigate the troubled waters in these unprecedented times, we must applaud the way technology has brought us respite. As the opening ceremony marked the start of the AVS Virtual Round Square Collaboration and Conference 2020, the first of its kind, with delegates from across the globe to ideate, collaborate and introspect on the theme “We are weathering the same storm, but we are not in the same boat.” The AVS Round Square Student Chairperson Gayatri Sapru in her speech spoke about the grave importance of leadership in the wake of the pandemic that has confined us to the safety of our homes but need not necessarily imprison our efforts within the four walls. The Headmaster Dr. Vidukesh Vimal in his opening statement spoke about how we stand at yet another juncture of human history, where what we decide today, how we act upon it, will remain engraved as actions that defined yet another chapter of human resilience. He reminded the delegates that in posterity, we shall be judged upon this day, and this time on our decision of whether we chose to Lead by our actions or surrender to the inactions of others. He left the delegates in the company of the wise words of Nida Fazli.
Keynote Speaker - Yash Johri P
lato’s words, He who wishes to serve his country must have not only the power to think but the will to act, best described the keynote Speaker’s address to the participants and organizers of the AVS Virtual Round Square Collaboration and Conference, 2020. An alumnus of the Doon School and a graduate of the School of Foreign Service, Georgetown University, Yash Johri is currently pursuing LLB at the University of Delhi. Apart from drawing in from the examples of Kurt Hahn, John Maynard Keynes, and Justice HR Khanna, the Speaker spoke at length about the world order as we know it. His inclusion of nationalism along with the ideal of internationalism sparked an interest in the audience and questions poured in making it a lively and an interactive session.
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Keynote Speaker - Miguel Quwah T
he second Keynote Speaker for this year’s AVS Virtual Round Square Collaboration and Conference, Savoir Faire,2020 was none other than AVS’s very own Miguel Queah. Miguel Queah is a child rights activist based in Guwahati, Assam. In 2011, he established UTSAH, an NGO working for Child Protection, and has ever since been at the helm of affairs as its Executive Director.Miguel spoke extensively to the student delegates in an interactive QnA session, wherein he touched on many relevant topics, such as the ill effects of humanity’s selfish mind-set has had on the world, stressing on the fact that we as a species need to usher in a change in perspective. He also spoke of the traits a good leader must possess in these adverse times. According to Miguel, a leader must have the heart to lead and do, but must also possess practicality in his approach. He also believes that change-making goes beyond oneself and that to bring about change, we must begin at home, with our own community. On being asked about the struggles of change and development in India, due to existing dogma, inequality and division, Miguel quoted his mentor, the late Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam when he said, “We focus on all the bad things, why not focus on the things we can make right”. Miguel passionately implored the youth to use their education to break mind-sets and go beyond the narrow narratives of caste, religion and inequality. He ended the interactive session with a quote from Martin Luther King Jr famous I have a dream speech, “From the mountain of despair, comes a stone of hope”.
The Barazza Group Sessions
1. Alex Azar Day 1
Unlike the Leader whose name the Barazza bore, the Alex Azar Barraza group fared far better than the country that has the highest numbers of COVID-19 casualties under his charge. The session began with the game of God/Mafia, a spin off from the old paper game of chor-police. The Barazza led by Nilay Dhakal and Kashvi Bhartia soon had the delegates engrossed in the task of finding the Murderer as the Healer tried to save innocent villagers and the Detective struggled to catch the killer. Apart from the mad scramble to save the villagers, the Barazza discussed the various leaders, their leadership styles and the apparent flaws in it.
Day 2 This time around the Alex Azar group saw the participants sharing their Posters of the leaders they admired and were inspired by. Barack Obama made frequent appearances followed closely by Angela Merkel, Jacinda Arden, Malala Yousafzai, and Greta Thunberg. Hailed as the voice of reason amidst the chaos surrounding the pandemic, women leaders have attracted a newfound sense of admiration and following. The delegate representing the United States of America defended the Barazza’s namesake, citing administrative constraints as the reason for the overwhelming casualties.
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2. Eduardo Pazuello Day 1
The Barazza group, named after the famous leader, Eduardo Pazuello, consisted of twelve delegates with Saumya Jindal and Karma Chamling as the leaders. After the introductions, an ice breaking session, was conducted where there was an auction on leadership qualities held where the delegates had to compete each having a five thousand rupees in their bank, a spin off from the popular monopoly. After this session was over the mood changed to a serious tone where everyone tuned in to the discussion on leadership and leadership styles. It was a friendly discussion with everyone respecting each other’s opinions but also putting in their own. To see so many different perspectives merge together was an interesting sight.
Day 2
The second day for the Roberto Speranza group was similar to the first day, with the delegates showing high spirits as they engaged in fun and enriching group activities followed by PowerPoint presentations from the delegates in regards to leadership and the various styles that can be seen in today’s world leaders. Overall, the sessions were productive and energetic.
3. Dr. Harsh Vardhan Day 1
The Barazza Group, “Dr Harsh Vardhan” led by Vedansh Jindal and Anchal More began with the delegates sharing the name of their favourite leader who they would invite over for a cup of tea or coffee and their reasons for choosing who they did. The invitees ranged from Brack Obama to Nelson Mandela. Interestingly, inviting Barack Obama for a tête-à-tête spilt into a debate on the events of the 9/11. The discussion was then channeled towards leaders and the leaderships styles that the delegates personally favoured.
Day 2
Straight out of Sotheby’s, with the Barraza leader Vedansh playing the auctioneer, the following qualities and abilities were up for auction- respect, courage, influence, communication, empathy, compassion, delegation, and learning agility. The auction was a heated affair with one of the delegates calling out the other for apparent lack of finances when the auctioneer had to step in to sort out the matter. Furthermore, they went on to debate the flaws in the different countries’ policies while handling the pandemic.
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4. Mikhail Murashko Day 1
Mikhail Murashko, the Barazza group led by Vasumann Lohia and Vansh Sharma and named after the Leader whose country has approved the world’s first coronavirus vaccine, had done their namesake proud. The participants were encouraged to answer the various engaging questions put up on the slide and the teachers present were equally invested in it, with Ma’am Ritu choosing invisibility as her superpower and proclaiming her love for the film ‘Mr India’ as a major factor behind it apart from the desire to help the needy. The session progressed on to a discussion on whether one should forgive their favourite Leader if and when they are involved and tried guilty of a crime.
Day 2
The delegates began their second day of the virtual Round Square with some superb speeches and presentations. As representatives of their respective countries, they highlighted the key issues faced by the countries during the pandemic and how their leaders tackled them. As young leaders themselves, they also brainstormed and came up with a brilliant and practical resolution. Twelve delegates, along with the three leaders, were present in the engaging and enlightening discussion.
5. Víctor Zamora Day 1
The forum warmed up with an entertaining virtual treasure hunt. At times, however, the delegates did fall prey to the awkward silence that can come with virtual sessions, but the Barazza Leaders Krish Agarwal and Raseen Shah handled it superbly. They did not allow a dull moment to descend upon the forum. The delegates put forward logical and interesting views on leadership. The discussion took a fascinating turn and stimulating opinions were put forward when asked “to imagine themselves as Adolf Hitler and manipulate the people of Germany in such a way that they would follow you blindly”. The Barazza comprised of fourteen delegates representing different countries who displayed posters of leaders such as Martin Luther King Jr., Qin Shi Huang, Kwame Nkrumah, etc.
Day 2 The delegates began their second day of the virtual Round Square with some superb speeches and presentations. As representatives of their respective countries, they highlighted the key issues faced by the countries during the pandemic and how their leaders tackled them. As young leaders themselves, they also brainstormed and came up with a brilliant and practical resolution. Twelve delegates, along with the three leaders, were present in the engaging and enlightening discussion.
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6. Oscar Enrique Paris Day 1
Starting off with an interactive ice-breaking session, the discussion grew heated within moments as the delegates shared their views on various styles of leadership, with the ever controversial, Kim Jong Un, ruling the roost. With Anushcka Joshi and Aryan Khatuwala at the helm of affairs, the discussion was steered brilliantly keeping in mind the synergistic vibe of the conversations. The fourteen delegates in the Barazza were enthusiastic, proactive and didn’t hesitate from sharing their views when given the chance, no matter how controversial they were. They came bearing posters of leaders such as Angela Merkel, APJ Abdul Kalam and Mahatma Gandhi.
Day 2 Day 2 saw dynamic discussion in this Barazza group. The delegates started off by presenting posters and speeches on behalf of their countries, in which they discussed about the various problems they were facing in these trying times and possible solutions to them. The meeting ended with a successful formation of a resolution in which very pragmatic and fascinating points were made. A total of fifteen bright minds, took part in this extremely informative session.
7. Jorge Alcocer Varela Day 1 The discussions started with a very friendly vibe, led by Parthiv Gargo and Adrija Das. The delegates enthusiastically discussed about the value of leadership and reviewed what the keynote speaker had spoken earlier. The discussions were very engaging and interesting and ended with a display of posters.
Day 2
Maintaining the same energy and liveliness as the previous session, the delegates and leaders began their second session by deliberating on the words of the day’s Keynote Speaker and then moved on to the representation of their countries. The discussions were very fruitful and enlightening The delegates spoke the different ways leaders across the world were handling the pandemic and how effective their efforts have been so far.
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8. Dr Zwelini Mkhize Day 1
The Dr Zwelini Mkhize Barazza led by Mahika Agarwal and Sanjana Barooah comprised of seventeen delegates. The session began with personal introductions of the delegates which were to comprise of two facts and a lie. The group then took their guess at the lie making it a time of laughter and creativity. The group then progressed to discussing the topic at hand which witnessed heated interaction between the delegates. The session came to an end with poster presentations by the delegates.
Day 2
It was another interesting evening with the Dr Zwelina Mkhize’s group as they discussed at length different leadership styles and the response of different leaders in their countries towards the pandemic. The heated discussion resulted in a crisp resolution that each delegate bore in their hearts and promised in their efforts.
9. Salvador Illa Day 1
The Salvadore Illa Barazza group had sixteen participating delegates and was led by Naviya Chamariya and Hrishi Raj Sureka. The group began by playing a game for the ice breaker where they had 7 volunteers play the role of villains immortalized in history stuck together in a hot air balloon set to crash. Each delegate playing a villain had to present a reason as to why they ought to be saved from the impending crash. The session then progressed on a more serious tone where the group discussed the different types of leadership and ended with a virtual poster presentation.
Day 2 The Salvadore Illa group saw an enriching second day of heated discussions and presentations that spoke of the research and collaborative work put in by the delegates. Leaders from Mandela and even the Wonder Woman made their due presence felt. The second day lived up in spirit and effort in this Barazza group.
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10. Edward Argar Day 1
Six months into this outbreak, the world has witnessed a shortage of test kits, masks and PPEs. However, this frightful mess has made us overlook the alarmingly weak correspondence between power and competency. The Barazza discussion of Edward Argar started off with a little game called ‘Guess the Gibberish’, wherein all the fourteen delegates enjoyed a hearty laugh at their own guesses. The Barazza Leaders, Aditi Thekedath and Tanisha Bhadra steered the serious discussion with a sprinkle of subtle humour and sitcom references. “A real confidence booster” as Vidisha Pradhan called it, the first day was truly informative, and the participation, energetic.
Day 2
“When faced with the radical crisis, when the old way of being in the world and survival is threatened by seemingly insurmountable problems, a species will either die or rise above its limitations” The second day of round square conference discussed leaders from around the world and their way of combating the crisis. The group Edward Argar, led by Aditi and Tanisha, began the discussion with the casual conversation, gradually progressing towards the serious aspects of it. “It was really hard to keep my eyes off the screen, learning so many new things as I was all in a single day,” remarked one of the delegates. The discussion ended with passing of a firm resolution and bidding adieu to our new friends. It was, by far, an enriching experience and all of the participants look forward to the next edition of the same!
11. Saeed Namaki Day 1 This Barraza group, named after the Iranian Minister of Health and Medical Education, Saeed Namaki was led by the combined efforts of Barazza leaders Humraj Singh Jassal and Anshu CS. The group was very lively and interactive from the get-go, provoking maximum participation from all fourteen delegates in various icebreakers, poster presentations, and various deep and opinionated discussions on various types of leadership styles and analysis on various leaders and leadership styles in the world. The barazza lived up to be one of the best, both in terms of discussion and fun.
Day 2
The second day for the Saeed Namaki group lived up to the expectations it had set for itself from the first day, as the sessions were spent in serious discussion, exploring the various leadership styles in depth, invoking the use of a very interactive back and forth discourse between all the delegates. Overall, the group was highly productive, delving truly into the theme of this year’s conference.
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12. Zafar Mirza Day 1
This barazza group, named after the Pakistani politician Zafar Mirza, was led by Anushka Agarwal and Trinayana Saikia as student leaders at the helm of affairs. The Barazza consisted of fourteen delgates from schools all over the country and beyond. They partook in several fun ice-breakers, getting to know each other. This was followed by several discussions on the important qualities in a leader, and the amount of power citizens should be given to impact the form of leadership in their country. Overall, the group was filled with laughs, smiles, and several thoughtful opinions.
Day 2
The second day for the Zafar Mirza Barazza saw a stark difference in the attitude of the delegates, as many if not all delegates stepped out of their shells and put on immaculate displays of knowledge and research, as was reflected in the in-depth presentations that were made. It was a wonderful sight to see all the confident and beaming faces shining through adversity. Overall, the session and discussions was rich and appreciated.
13. Roberto Speranza Day 1 Named after the Italian Health Minister, Roberto Speranza, this barraza group was headed by Ipshita Kashyap and Jiya Agarwal. The Barraza group was a lively one with fourteen delegates participating from schools all over the country and beyond. They engaged in several hilarious and enjoyable ice-breakers, building bonds and navigating through the first interaction. This was followed by thought-provoking debate, discussing several aspects of leadership, one notable strain of thought being the analysis and comparison of the personalities and leadership styles of Adolf Hitler and Martin Luther King Jr. Overall, the barazza sessions were lively and interactive.
Day 2 The second day for the Roberto Speranza group was similar to the first day, with the delegates showing high spirits as they engaged in fun and enriching group activities followed by PowerPoint presentations from the delegates in regards to leadership and the various styles that can be seen in today’s world leaders. Overall, the sessions were productive and energetic.
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The Closing Ceremony T
he closing ceremony saw some exceptional performances by the participating schools. The performances ranged from various genres of dance to solo performances, recitations, cultural performance videos, and some spectacular artwork. The closing ceremony ended with a vote of thanks and a video presentation of the Assam Valley School’s school song, “Pass it on” which left the delegates awed and the Aviators with a moist eye.
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Delegate Experiences Arpit Singh, The Punjab Public School, Nabha - It was a knowledge-
able and interactive round square conference. The keynote speakers and the round square representive along with the whole AVS round square committee including Barazza leaders were great. The conference was really up to the mark.
Mohammed Nihal Shiraj, Indian School, AL GHUBRA -
The virtual Round Square session was very interesting and interactive. It was a very good opportunity as we could connect to students from different schools and share our ideas.
Siya Mehra, Pathways World School, Aravali - The Round
Square has given me an opportunity to extend my knowledge about the COVID-19 and leadership styles used by various leaders. Not only did I get to put forward New Zealand’s (my delegation) stance but also got an overview of how the other countries and leaders have handled the pandemic. Even though the conference got conducted virtually, I think it was an amazing experience.
Faiza Reza, Indian School Al Ghubra - This is my first Round
Square Conference. Though it is virtual, I must say I have enjoyed sharing my thoughts and listening to my fellow delegates. I really wish I could actually meet them.
Sanjana Barooah, The Assam Valley School - It was an amazing experience! This was my first ever Round Square conference. So to have attended that as a leader, it really helped in developing my personal leadership skills. The sessions were enriching and fun and I feel like all of us come out of this conference more confident and knowledgeable.
Mahika Agarwal, The Assam Valley School - It was a really
great experience for everyone. We enjoyed ourselves a lot. The delegates had a great time. We have had the best time in these 2 days. I would really like to thank the school for such an amazing and innovative experience. We have made many new friends and hope to keep in touch with them.
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Vote of Thanks -Gayatri Sapru, XII
I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to those who made this event possible. The Headmaster Dr. Vidukesh Vimal and the Senior Leadership Team of The Assam Valley School: visionaries in these times of crisis. The teachers involved in this process whose tireless efforts were indispensable - Mr. Chauhan, Ms. Borah and Ms. Baladevi on the social media side, Ms. Paul Sarkar and the AVE Team led by Aanoushka Rabha, Mr. Das and his Electronic Media team, The Systems Administrator Mr. Rupjyoti Das, Mrs. Priyanka Joshi - head of Art & CDT, Mr. Benjamin and Mr. Rakshit on the Cultural side, The Baraza heads, Mrs. Deka, Mrs. Sharma Bora, Mrs. Lipika Bora, Ms. Tamali Ghosh, Mr. Pyne, Mr. Watts, Mr. Daniel David, Mr. Singh, Mrs. Ghosh Pyne, Mrs. Kashyap Das, Mr. Prajapati, Mrs. Syiemleh, Mr. Sanjay
Sharma, Mrs. Shallu Sharma and Mrs. Bhowmick. And the student Barraza leaders for their initiatives and constant cooperation and enthusiasm. I would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to all delegates from all participating schools and Teacher-in-charges who have made the effort to be a part of this conference and made it better with their presence. I want to thank the Round Square Committee, for being a source of undying support and a powerhouse of hard-work. Lastly, to the person who has taught me the true meaning of leadership, by being an exceptional leader herself, a remarkable woman, with qualities of determination and resilience who has spearheaded this entire movement, brought together schools from various parts of the world, united teachers and students, a true trailblazer in every task she undertakes - Dr. Pooja Jain Benjamin.
Resolution
In this moment of crisis, the crucial struggle takes place within humanity itself. If this epidemic results in greater disunity and mistrust among humans, it will be the virus’s greatest victory. When humans squabble- viruses double. In contrast, if the epidemic results in closer global cooperation, it will be a victory not only against the coronavirus but against all pathogens. The conference concluded with Charles Darwin’s lines It is not the strongest of the species that survives, nor the most intelligent that survives. It is the one that is most adaptable to change.
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Editor-in-Chief: Jeremy Jahau Deputy Editor: Letminlun Haokip Associate Editor: Anoushka S. Rabha Correspondents: Ojas, Neelabh & Marwati Design & Layout: Moom Lego & Jeremy Jahau Illustrator: Reela, Eloziini & Tanisha Photo Credit: Letminlun Haokip Mistress-in-Charge: Ms. Sarmistha Paul Sarkar Publisher: The Assam Valley School, P.O. Balipara, Dist. Sonitpur, Asom-784101, India E-mail: ave@assamvalleyschool.com Telephone: 09678074320/08812009627 Website: www.assamvalleyschool.com Patron: Dr. Vidhukesh Vimal, The Headmaster of The Assam Valley School Weekly Newsletter of The Assam Valley Express