Under the leadership of Dr. Edison Samraj, Education Director of the Southern Asia Division at Spicer Adventist University, an exceptional weekend service involving three Adventist schools was organized on July 9th and 10th, 2023. Teachers, parents, and students from these schools showcased how similar programs can be conducted throughout the division.
The first day was dedicated to teachers and parents, while the second focused on students. The Spicer Auditorium, with a capacity of 800 people, was filled to power, and the news media reported on the event after a press conference held at Spicer.
Dr. Edison Samraj successfully brought together these three stakeholders and encouraged them to collaborate for maximum results. Quoting Ellen G. White from Counsels to Parents, Teachers, and Students, he emphasized the importance of parents training their children to be faithful to God in all circumstances and places. He said this would ensure that children would not cause disturbance or anxiety when sent to school but instead support their teachers and be an example to their fellow pupils.
Before the national conference, a dedication service for all educational leaders was held on Sabbath. Pastor Ezras Lakra, Southern Asia Division President, offered a special prayer of dedication. Dr. M S Jeremiah delivered a message during the Divine service.
The significant issues and their respective speakers are as follows:
Session | Topic | Speaker | Chairman
● RedefiningRedemptive Education:Strategic Agenda for the Future | Dr. Edison Samraj, Education Director, SUD |Dr. Bandari Israel, Education Director, East Central India UnionIntroducing Follow-up Programs after EducationAdvisory:Dr. Calvin Joshua, Director, Resilient Coaching International | Dr. EdisonSamraj, Education Director, Southern Asia Division
● IntegratingFaith and Learning:An Adventist Perspective | Dr. Prema Gaikwad, Professor, AIIAS, Philippines |Pr. Rajesh Chand, Education Director, Northern India Union
● HolisticEducation Textbooks:Dr. M Wilson, President, OWPH | Dr. Ezras Lakra, President, Southern AsiaDivision
● Revisioningthe Future of Adventist Education in Southern Asia Division: Panel: Dr. Justus, Dr. Eliah, Dr.Sanjeevan, Dr. M S Jeremiah, Dr. Simon Yesu, Dr. Paul Bhagien, Dr. FranklinSamraj | Dr. Calvin Joshua, President, International Center for Health Solutions
● AAA Review and Inspection Protocols:Dr. Edison Samraj, Education Director, Southern Asia Division| Dr. T I John,Education Director, South West India Union
● AdventistVolunteer Service:Ms. Metilda Christian, Director, AVS | Elder Riches Christian, Treasurer,Southern Asia Division
Students, Speakers, and Award ceremony during the National Conference (Photo Credit: SUD)
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Dr. Edison Samraj carefully selected the topics and resource personnel for the conference, ensuring a fruitful and informative event. The meeting also included a Division Education Advisory at the Management Conference Hall, where school principals and headteachers joined via Zoom to receive instruction and inspiration.
Quoting from the book Education by Ellen G. White, Dr. Samraj emphasized the goal of sending forth individuals who are strong in their thinking and actions, masters of their circumstances rather than slaves to them. The conferences aimed to equip attendees with the breadth of mind, clearness of thought, and the courage to act on their convictions.
The teachers, parents, and students made the pledges. The teachers pledged to express kindness and affection in their teaching, recognizing the importance of character-building and treating all students equally. They also pledged to continue learning and positively influence their students and colleagues.
The students pledged to pursue a proper education that develops their physical, mental, and spiritual powers. They promised to obey school rules, complete homework, and work hard to meet high expectations. They also pledged to respect their teachers and treat others with kindness and honesty.
The parents pledged to support high-quality education for their children and stay involved in their education. They promised to serve as positive role models, maintain open communication with teachers and the school, and prioritize education in their households. They also pledged to have high expectations for their children's success.
To support these pledges, initiatives have been taken to provide digital courses for teachers, parents, and students. Plans are also underway for educational tours and including traditional games and artificial intelligence in the curriculum. The concept of redemptive education was emphasized in all sessions.