The 16th Sustainable Development Goal (Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions) is to promote peaceful and inclusive societies for sustainable development, provide access to justice for all and build effective, accountable and inclusive institutions at all levels. The International Day of Peace (IDP) was established in 1981. It is followed by many political groups, militant people and the general public. The date initially chosen was the regular opening day of the annual sessions of the General Assembly, the third Tuesday of September. However, after the September attacks of 2001, commonly known as the 9/11 attacks, the IDP was shifted to a fixed date- 21st September of every year, which would take effect from 2002. It was also declared that that day would also be observed as a day of global ceasefire and non-violence. The peace dove with an olive branch in its beak, which is also a sign of peace, is an important symbol of this day. The United Nations Peace Bell is rung to start this day, after which the UN Secretary-General delivers a speech. This Peace Bell includes coins contributed by people from 65 member countries, and was a gift from Japan to the UN in 1954. The Peace Bell symbolizes hope for peace and has an inscription that reads “Long live absolute world peace”. Every year, the UN chooses a theme for this day, this year’s being “Actions for Peace: Our Ambition for #GlobalGoals”. Apart from nations stopping all hostilities for a day, the general public can also do a lot to celebrate the International Day of Peace, by planting trees for peace, holding exhibitions and matches in the name of peace and lighting candles. At noon in each time zone, we observe a one-minute silence to create a “Peace Wave” all around the world.  Peace can also mean improving our interpersonal relations and changing our behaviour towards each other and the environment.

War is not a compulsion - it is a choice. And if war is a choice, peace can be too. As Nelson Mandela so greatly said, “People learn to hate, and if they can learn to hate, they can be taught to love, for love comes more easily to the human heart than its opposite. Man’s goodness is a flame that can be hidden but never extinguished.” Humanity and peace go hand in hand. The first emotion we learn in our life is love, and with love comes peace.

Jhanvi Pendyala, Class 10 Antares

Women's equality has long been a topic of discussion, as societies strive to create a fair and just world for all. As we explore the multifaceted dimensions of gender equality, it is crucial to acknowledge the historical struggles, recognize the challenges that persist today, celebrate the triumphs, and discuss the role of education in empowering women. By fostering inclusivity, advocating for policy changes, and amplifying the voices of women, we can contribute to a brighter and more equitable future.

Historical Struggles

The journey towards women's equality is deeply rooted in history, marked by centuries of denial of fundamental rights and opportunities. For far too long, women were confined to the roles of caregivers and homemakers, while their male counterparts dominated the public sphere. However, the suffragette movement of the late 19th and early 20th centuries emerged as a powerful force, demanding women's right to vote. Visionaries like Susan B. Anthony and Emmeline Pankhurst fought tirelessly to dismantle barriers and secure political enfranchisement for women worldwide.

While achieving voting rights was a significant milestone, the fight for equality extended to other domains such as education, employment, and social rights. Women like Malala Yousafzai have exemplified the power of education in empowering women and challenging discriminatory norms. Despite these historical victories, persistent challenges remain, requiring continued efforts to create a truly egalitarian society.

Challenges in the Workplace

Although women have made significant strides in the workplace, there is still a prevalent gender gap in terms of representation and pay. Glass ceilings and gender biases often hinder women from ascending to leadership positions, limiting their opportunities for growth and advancement. The gender pay gap continues to persist, with women earning less than their male counterparts for the same work. To address these disparities, policy changes, awareness campaigns, and fostering a culture of inclusivity are essential.

In addition to the gender pay gap, women face additional challenges such as workplace harassment and discrimination. It is imperative to create safe and supportive environments where women can thrive professionally, free from any form of bias or mistreatment. Organizations can implement diversity and inclusion initiatives, provide mentorship programs, and establish transparent reporting mechanisms to ensure a level playing field for all employees.

Balancing Family and Career

The concept of work-life balance poses unique challenges for women due to societal expectations and traditional gender roles. The burden of caregiving responsibilities, such as child-rearing and elderly care, often falls disproportionately on women, impacting their career progression and personal development. To address this issue, companies and governments must collaborate to provide comprehensive support systems.

Paid parental leave policies can empower both mothers and fathers to take an active role in raising their children, fostering equal responsibilities within the family unit. Affordable and accessible childcare options can alleviate the financial and logistical burdens faced by working parents, allowing women to pursue their careers without compromising their family obligations. Flexible work arrangements, such as remote work or flexible hours, enable women to balance their professional and personal responsibilities effectively.

Violence and Discrimination

Gender-based violence remains a grave concern on a global scale, affecting women of all ages, backgrounds, and socioeconomic statuses. From domestic abuse to human trafficking, women continue to face various forms of violence and discrimination. Organizations like UN Women play a crucial role in combating these issues by advocating for policies and initiatives that protect women's rights and safety.

Education and awareness are key tools in changing societal attitudes and dismantling harmful stereotypes that perpetuate discrimination and violence. By promoting comprehensive sex education, teaching consent, and addressing toxic masculinity, we can empower future generations to reject violence and foster respectful relationships. It is essential to create support networks for survivors and ensure that legal systems effectively prosecute perpetrators of gender-based violence.

Triumphs and Role Models

Amidst the challenges, there are remarkable success stories that inspire change and serve as role models for future generations. Women like Kamala Harris, the first female Vice President of the United States, and Jacinda Ardern, the youngest female Prime Minister of New Zealand, have shattered glass ceilings and redefined possibilities for women in leadership roles. These women exemplify the potential for women to break barriers and pave the way for a more inclusive society.

It is crucial to celebrate these triumphs and amplify the stories of women who have overcome obstacles to achieve their goals. By highlighting diverse role models from various fields, we inspire young girls to dream big, pursue their passions, and believe in their ability to make a difference. Representation matters, and it is through the visibility of successful women that we can challenge societal norms and redefine what is possible.

Empowerment Through Education

Education remains a powerful force in driving gender equality. When women have access to quality education, they are better equipped to make informed choices about their lives, health, and future. Education not only empowers women economically but also fosters critical thinking, resilience, and the ability to challenge societal norms.

To ensure equal educational opportunities for all, it is essential to address barriers that disproportionately affect girls and women. This includes tackling gender stereotypes in curricula, providing scholarships and mentorship programs, and improving access to education in marginalized communities. By investing in girls' education, we invest in the future of society, paving the way for a more equitable and prosperous world.

While significant progress has been made towards women's equality, there is still much work to be done. As we navigate the complexities of gender equality, it is essential to recognize historical struggles, address challenges in the workplace, promote work-life balance, combat violence and discrimination, celebrate triumphs, and prioritize education. By fostering inclusivity, advocating for policy changes, and empowering women, we can contribute to a world where women's equality is not just an aspiration but a lived reality for all. Let us continue to educate, inspire, and empower the generations that follow, ensuring a brighter and more equitable future.

The youth of a country is like a blessing they can dream and makeevery dream comes true.

 International Youth Day is a momentous occasioncelebrated on 12th August to spread awareness andconsciousness of engaging and encouraging participation ofthe upcoming generation in the future. The First InternationalYouth Day was celebrated in 1999 after the United Nations GeneralAssembly (UNGA) passed a resolution accepting therecommendations of the World Ministers; Meeting on Youth in Lisbon.The day aims to achieve Youth Employment and Entrepreneurship,Youth Participation in Decision-Making, Mental Health and Well-beingand Education and Skills Development. When young people areempowered, they can unleash their creativity and energy to tacklevarious challenges, ranging from environmental issues and poverty topromoting equality and social justice. The International Youth Day 2022The theme will be focused on creating a better world for our future generation. 

• 2016: Youth Leading Sustainability
• 2017: Youth Building Peace.
• 2018: Safe Spaces for Youth.
• 2019: Transforming Education.
• 2020: Youth Engagement for Global Action   
• 2021: Transforming Food Systems: Youth Innovation for Human and Planetary Health. 

2023 the theme focuses on GREEN SKILLS FOR YOUTH:TOWARDS A SUSTAINABLE WORLD. Green skills are to developabilities, values, and the importance of sustainable development andresource-efficient society. Using technical skills and creativeknowledge to achieve the objective of a better society.

 On this International Youth Day, let us collectively commit toempowering the leaders of tomorrow.

“The world's biggest strength lies in the youth.” 

AS EXPRESSED BY SWAMI VIVEKANAND “THE YOUTHOFTODAY IF EQUIPPED PROPERLY WILL BE THE FUTURE OF TOMORROW.

Student Name : Oma Sharma

Class : 12 Deneb

“If we teach today’s students as we taught yesterday, we rob them of tomorrow.” These words of John Dewey stand as strong guiding pillars whenever educators plan the accomplishment of curriculum. Even before that, there has to be an organized curriculum in place. Do we have that? The answer is simple yet emphatic, evident in the objectives enumerated by the CBSE. These include:

• Achieve affective, cognitive and psycho-motor excellence
• Enhance self-awareness and explore innate potential
• Promote life skills, goal- setting and life-long learning
• Inculcate values and foster cultural learning and international understanding in an interdependent society
• Acquire the ability to utilize technology and information for the betterment of humankind
• Strengthen knowledge and attitude related to livelihood skills
• Develop the ability to appreciate art and showcase talents
• Promote physical fitness, health and wellbeing
• Promote arts integrated learning

Each of these are appropriately designed and executed grade and age wise. Thus, when students reach the stage where they have to face competitive exams and challenges outside of their own institutions, they aren’t appalled by the expectations. Any competitive exam requires a blend of regular study, planned routine, group discussions, mental peace, and activities. And the goals being set by the students need to be SMART.

S - Specific 

M- Measurable

A - Attainable

R - Relevant

T - Time-bound

Taking a quick look and comparing these goals and the objectives set by the curriculum are quite in sync. The methods and techniques adopted by educators include this sync in discussion. There is insistence on understanding as the first step and moving on from there instead of memorisation. The teaching-learning strategies are designed to fit this criterion. The CBSE has introduced and developed several pedagogical requirements, guiding material and handbooks in order to achieve and execute strategies for effective outcomes. Any exam, competitive or otherwise requires hard work blended with smart work. Each of the strategies need to be carefully filtered as per the student’s strengths. And there comes the important role played by the educators. Once the students get a grasp on the most appropriate and suitable method and strategy, they are able to apply that when it comes to preparation for competitive exams. It might involve more time and extensive syllabus. But if there is surety in approach, then what is required is taken charge by the abilities nourished and harnessed earlier in the schooling process.

Benjamin Franklin’s words, “tell me and I forget. Teach me and I remember. Involve me and I learn”

Echoes the importance of practical learning. A student’s ability to grasp an idea is enhanced by doing or practicing it rather than hearing it. Practical learning helps in understanding, reducing the fear of enormous amount of content to be retained. Highlighting text, reading and re-reading material, and trying to memorize are methods limited by time. And huge possibilities of easily forgetting. Putting the knowledge into action will have far reaching effects. For example, learning a language. Knowledge of the handbook isn’t enough, unless one actually speaks it. Speaking helps in understanding and getting familiar with the context which cannot be provided by the handbook alone.

The concept, “muscle memory” is highly underrated. When there is learning by doing, there is greater retention and understanding. Once there is understanding, the students are able to compartmentalize the information in ways suitable to them. This in turn helps in retention and recollection when time demands. This does not end at the schooling level. Once this routine is habituated, students are ready for learning throughout their lives. Their approach is set, their vision is clear and goals become attainable. Competitive and beyond, students are equipped with the confidence that no matter what the requisites, they would be more than capable to achieve.

The ability to discern, is a very important one and is often overlooked while trying to convey the concept. This ability highlights having and showing good judgment. An ability required by every individual in any walk of life. Incorporating critical thinking into the prescribed pedagogical method has brilliant results in the way students respond. Any learning is incomplete without the knowledge of why it is required. Students, when they think and ask questions about the concept, are curious about the reasons, are eager to know more, then we know the direction and approach is right on track.

The CBSE schools provide ample scope for all the points discussed above. The fact that there is a strive for inclusive education clearly amplifies the aim of attention to all kinds of learners. Not only pedagogy related innovations but also including technological innovations that keep pace with the global trends is a key objective.

Therefore, enrolling your child with a CBSE school guarantees the following:

• well-structured academic quantum
• comprehensive personality
• stimulating evaluation techniques
• flexibility in choice of subjects
• nationwide and international recognition

It is also more preferred keeping in mind competitive exams.

Locally, let’s take a look at one of the best CBSE schools in our city.

The Orbis School, Keshavnagar/Mundhwa. The motto being – Celebrate learning, it provides a holistic education, be it in the areas of academics, sports, drama, dance, music, public speaking, debates etc. And believe in opening young minds rather than filling them.

Choosing a CBSE school would help in easing the constant worry of parents whether their child is learning and growing in a conducive environment.

Subha Vithal Gobburu, TGT social Science

Every child deserves the best education possible to overcome the obstacles in their upcoming lives. As the famous quote said by Nelson Mandela, “Education is the powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” Giving your child the best education, choosing the right education board for them is the greatest challenge for a parent as it helps nurture young minds and become responsible citizens who can contribute towards the development and growth of the world. As the Indian education system offers numerous boards for the pupil that caters to the country’s demographics educational needs. The Indian board of education is primarily divided into 4 types namely- CBSE, ICSE, SSC and IB.

• CBSE- Central Board of Secondary Education.
• ICSE- Indian Certificate of Secondary Education.
• IB- International Baccalaureate.
• SSC- Secondary School Certificate.

Now the question that every parent is uncleared about is, which board to choose? Which kind of education pattern will help in developing his/her child’s personality and character? The answer to these questions are simple. Choose CBSE board. Here are the top 5 reasons to opt for the right education board named as CBSE(Central Board Of Secondary Education).

Why choose a CBSE school for your child?

1] The basic reason is that nearly 17000 schools in India and abroad are unified with CBSE which signifies that it’s curriculum is evenly carried around the world. Choosing CBSE board also entitles to prepare your child for the career so that they may succeed internationally by a good reputed school.

2] Design of curriculum and schedule of activities- The CBSE board mainly involves in the well-defined and structured guidelines for their students regarding the curriculum, the extra-curricular and co-curricular activities. The CBSE schools organizes the activities and experiments by putting their right efforts that helps a child to be zestful and sporty while being actively participating in the group discussions apart from the regular activities.

3] Preparation for Competitive Exams- The teaching methods have progressed from past years as the competitive exams have proven to be significant in the syllabus. Choosing a CBSE board that enhances the level of a child by providing a broad curriculum and extra perk of learning more ahead of the various competitive exams. The syllabus is designed to prepare the pupil for the entrance examination such as JEE, NEET, etc.

4] Focus on overall growth and development- Besides offering the best education to students, the faculty of CBSE schools also offers guidance in mental and physical development. The schools encourage their students to not only pursue good grades in academics and activities but also seek their passion in different areas to explore their interests and identify their curiosity.

5] No Cramming- Apart from studying and gaining knowledge, learning plays a vital role for passing an exam. While CBSE curriculum does not prop up the concept of rot learning for exams. It tests a child based on their knowledge they hold and are required to think laterally to answer the questions. During the lessons, the faculty organises practical sessions based on the chapters they’ve taught that helps the child to summarise what they have learned so that there is no cramming.

Conclusion- The reasons above must be noted before selecting an educational board as it is the commencing point of your child’s career. As a parent you might ponder upon the question that other boards can also prepare my child for his/her future but apart from studies if you want your child to build the confidence, courage, to develop physically and mentally then CBSE board caters to your needs. Though CBSE has many advantages, but ultimately it depends on your child’s interests. No matter what board you choose, choose wisely because your child’s development in every aspect is necessary. Every child that is nurtured well will blossom wherever he is planted.

Pune, which is also known as the Oxford of the East is home to some of the top CBSE schools that are known for providing quality education. Finding the best CBSE school is quite hectic and confusing nowadays since a school is not only the place where a child learns to read, write, and learn, but is the place where they develop their skills and get ready for their future life. CBSE education is one of the most sought-after curriculums in India, where children can earn capabilities to continue higher education in premium institutes. In their quest for finding the best for their child, The Orbis Schools with a motto of celebrate learning have become the preferred choice of parents.

Why Orbis Schools?

The Orbis Schools are affiliated with the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE), New Delhi. Admission to The Orbis Schools is open to all children without any distinction of caste, creed, gender, colour or religion. Orbis aims to nurture its students in a way that helps them realize their own potential and identify and achieve their goals in an environment of rich tutelage, joyful and harmonious learning while keeping alive the spirit of togetherness.

Let us break down the admission process with step-by-step guidelines to help parents make the decision:

Step 1 Enquiry -

Fill out the Enquiry Form on the School website, choosing the branch of your preference. Upon enquiring, the Online Application Form will be emailed to you.

Step 2 Filling of Online Application Form –

Online Application Form to be updated with correct details along with latest photograph of the student and parent’s and relevant documents. Payment of Application fee to be carried out via NEFT.

Step 3 Scheduling Interaction -

The Admission Counsellor will connect with the parent over call/via email to schedule an interaction.

Step 4 Interaction –

Orbis believes that every child is blessed with unique qualities and talents Our meeting with your child will help us in bettering the understanding. We’d also love to meet your family to ascertain the synergies for symbiotic development. A healthy and cordial relationship between our two families is paramount to a conducive environment for the growth and development of our children.

Step 5 Visiting the Campus -

We would like you to come and understand the school’s infrastructure, its Core Practices, rules, regulations and policies so that you make a well-informed choice. The admission counsellor can provide a tour of the campus and also schedule an interaction with faculty.

Step 6 Admission –

When you are convinced that Orbis will be the best choice for your ward, Fill and save the online admission form sent via email, submit all documents and pay the admission fee. The admission counsellor will update you with all the details regarding the vendors (books, shoes and uniform)

Step 7 School begins -

Child can attend school when the new term begins OR 3 days after admission formalities are completed for students who have taken mid term admission