Students of DPS Bathinda Akhilesh Sharma and Samar Bansal, grade XII from DPS Bathinda accompanied by AFS Coordinator Mr. Sachin Gopal Singla and the Principal Mr. J. K. Saini attended the Annual AFS North India Regional Meet held at Selaqui International School, Dehradun, from April 20 to 21, 2024, The theme of conference was “Inclusion” to celebrate AFS ideals of intercultural learning, respect, and empathy. Esteemed figures such as Mr. Sanjeev Chopra, retired IAS Officer of 1985 batch (Chief Guest), Dr. Sumer Bahadur Singh (educationist and ex-Principal of Dely College Indore), Dr. Jagpreet Singh (Headmaster- The DOON School, Dehradun), Mr. Satyam Sahai, and AFS National Director, Ms. Diya Badgel, graced the occasion. This gathering, attended by directors, principals, educators, and students from around 32 prestigious schools, aimed to foster global citizenship and community service. Noteworthy highlights of the event included discussions on promoting gender equality and empowering women in today’s society.

The opening ceremony featured captivating musical and dance performances, setting the stage for insightful discussions. The Chief Guest Mr. Sanjeev Chopra highlighted the importance of inclusion in contemporary society.

The event included multiple enlightening sessions for the students focused on the theme ‘Inclusion’, Students were further enlightened by AFS alumni, who shared insights on problem-solving at the grassroots level. The school organized an awareness campaign on the sensitive but crucial issue of understanding menstrual hygiene by the participants. The boys were included in the discussion and played an active role in taking responsibility and being sensitized toward their role in society. Students took up an awareness project and they visited a nearby village, Kaichiwala, where they interacted with rural women and educated them through an interactive talk on ‘Masik Dharm Swachhta’ offering attendees a platform to reflect and share their enriching experiences.