Freedom and Peace: Arya RPKM

FREEDOM

Q. When you were a student, what were the 3 most critical instances where you felt that more freedom at your disposal would have allowed you to realize your goals /potential in a better way? Do you think any of those circumstances exist even today?

A. 3 instances where I felt that more freedom would have allowed me to achieve my goals in a better way are mentioned below- 

INSTANCE 1 

A few years back when I was in college studying Fashion Designing, I was given an assignment. The assignment was to prepare a range of garments inspired by Jaipur’s heritage. But just cause I couldn’t join my friends on the Jaipur trip as I had to manage secondary data. While others researched everything by visiting the places and meeting the people, I just searched everything on Google and did my assignment. Since I couldn’t go to Jaipur due to some family reasons, my assignment was affected and so were my marks. 

INSTANCE 2 

After completing my post-graduation, I got a job offer from a well-known fashion brand. The only problem was that they wanted me to shift to Mumbai. But I didn’t have the freedom to shift to Mumbai because that was the year 2021 i.e.; my parents didn't allow me due to increasing Covid 11 virus cases. I lost a great job opportunity which could have been my career’s turning point. 

INSTANCE 3 

It was the 2015-16 academic year of my school, I was in class 12th. I was in my school basketball team. There was a state-level tournament in Delhi. Because my preboards were coming next month, my teacher suggested I stay back and work on my academic results rather than attending the tournament. There I had to choose between the two most important one-time opportunities of my life. I still wish I had the freedom to grasp both of them.

Talking about the present, no such instances occur now. Even if in future any such circumstances happen, I am sure to handle the situation more wisely so that I won’t have any regrets later.

PEACE

Q. What is it about human behaviour, according to you, that causes people to give up peace and adopt violence?

Human behaviour leading to the adoption of violence is often influenced by various factors, including socio-economic conditions, cultural norms, and personal experiences. Individuals may resort to violence as a means of expressing frustration, asserting power, or dealing with perceived threats.

In classrooms, fostering a peaceful environment involves addressing multiple dimensions. Firstly, educators can incorporate conflict resolution and emotional intelligence training into the curriculum. This equips students with skills to manage conflicts peacefully and empathize with others. 

Moreover, promoting open dialogue and understanding diverse perspectives can reduce misunderstandings that may escalate into violence. Creating a safe space where students feel heard and respected contributes to a positive classroom culture.

Additionally, teaching subjects that emphasize critical thinking and ethical decision-making can empower students to make choices that contribute to a peaceful society. Encouraging collaboration over competition and instilling values of tolerance and empathy can further shape individuals prioritising peace over violence.

In essence, a comprehensive approach within classrooms that combines education on conflict resolution, emotional intelligence, and ethical decision-making can play a crucial role in shaping peace-loving individuals.

From 

Arya @ RPK School Moradabad

Dhiraj Gupta, Naina Soni, Rekha Kapoor, Suman Singh, Sandeep Negi, Naushaba Sami and Isha Sharma.