22 Aug 2025
Stephens International Public School successfully hosted Dr. Aparna Oratory Odyssey 2.0, an annual flagship event dedicated to celebrating the art of oratory and intellectual discourse. The event was organized in the loving memory of Dr. Aparna Saini, whose visionary ideals of knowledge, empathy, and eloquence continue to inspire generations.The prestigious occasion was graced by Sh.Vikram Randhawa MLA Bahu Constituency as the Chief Guest and Mrs. Priya Sethi Former Minister of State as the Special Guest, whose presence added immense value to the programme. Chairman Dr Kamal Saini (former IGP), Mrs Satvinder Saini, Director alongwith Principal Dr Manjari Sehgal, Vice Principal Ms Shweta Bakshi, Headmistress Ms Khushboo Shaminotra, Coordinators,faculty members and students were also present there.
The competition witnessed the enthusiastic participation of talented students from almost 30 reputed CBSE schools of Jammu region,who showcased their eloquence, critical thinking, and persuasive communication skills.
In the Extempore competition, Aanya Kapoor from Presentation Convent Sr. Sec. School emerged as the winner and got cash prize of Rs 3000.The second position was shared by Mehveen Kour of Stephens International Public School and Smily Kalsi of SNS Vidya Mandir who won cash prize of Rs 2500. Tanavpreet Kour of Air Force Public School Jammu secured the third place and got cash prize of Rs 2000.
The debate competition was equally fierce and intellectually stimulating. Ansh Bakshi and Mohd. Zuhaib from International Delhi Public School Jammu clinched the first prize of Rs 8000. Adarsh Sharma and Pallavi Sharma from Rich Harvest School secured the second place with cash prize of Rs 5000,while the third position was bagged by Hiya Sharma and Aayan Ali from Army Public School Nagrota with cash prize of Rs 3000. Adding further prestige, Maahirah Sagar of Presentation Convent Sr. Sec. School was honoured as the Best Speaker of the debate. He also got the cash prize of Rs 4500. All the winners received trophies and certificates too.
The event was adjudicated by a distinguished panel of judges, which included Romika Sudan, Ms. Pooja Malhotra, and Mr. Sunny Dua for the Extempore, while the Debate sessions were evaluated by experts comprising Mr. Kashab Kumar Sharma, Dr. Shalini Sharma, Mr. Jain UL Abdeen, Prof. Harleen Kour, Ms. Shivika Thakur, and Ms. Nirmal Mahana.
Speaking on the occasion, the Chairman emphasized that “true triumph lies not in victory, but in the courage to articulate one’s convictions, listen with empathy, and engage with diverse perspectives.”
Sh. Vikram Randhawa too lauded the school management for providing a platform to the students where stress is laid on holistic development besides quality education.
The programme concluded with heartfelt appreciation for the tireless efforts of the organizing committee, teachers, and coordinators, whose dedication ensured the event’s resounding success.
Dr. Aparna Oratory Odyssey 2.0 once again proved to be more than a competition—it was a celebration of ideas, eloquence, and the power of words to inspire and bring change.