Embrace the future with optimism, Utilize technology to amplify your reach : Amitabh Kant (IAS), former G20 Sherpa

SHIMLA:  The Lawrence School, Sanawar near Solan, the world’s oldest co-educational residential schools founded in 1847 concludes its three day long 78th Founders’ Day festivity with grandeur, pride and emotion as alumni, students, parents and distinguished guests gathered on the historic hill campus. The Chief Guest for the occasion, Amitabh Kant (IAS), former G20 Sherpa for the Government of India and former CEO of NITI Aayog delivered an inspiring address that wove together Sanawar’s remarkable legacy and India’s vision for the future.
In his address with personal anecdotes, Kant offered four key lessons for the young Sanawarians. He urged them to remain resilient in the face of failure, citing how a so-called “punishment posting” in Kerala led him to launch the globally acclaimed “God’s Own Country” tourism campaign. He advised students to think long-term and build for decades, not short term as India needs leaders who design institutions that endure. Recalling high-stakes G20 negotiations, he underlined that bold, informed risks backed by preparation and alliances often lead to breakthrough results. Finally, he emphasized the power of clear and empathetic communication, sharing how learning Malayalam early in his career helped him connect with people and drive meaningful change. Encouraging the students to embrace the future with optimism, Kant emphasized that the present generation live in an era of extraordinary possibility. Technology can amplify their reach, but it cannot replace judgement, integrity and hard work.
Earlier, Headmaster Himmat Singh Dhillon, in his address, presented the School Report, highlighting the remarkable achievements in academics, sports, and co-curricular activities along with the dedicated efforts of the teaching staff who have collectively propelled the institution to new heights in the educational arena.
The highlight of the event was the “Trooping of the School Flag” Parade as the cadet students marched with the school flag and earned applause from the audience. The Chief of the Army Staff’s trophy went to Gayatri Sud and Harsh Kumar. This was followed by an alumni parade as Old Sanawarians from various batches proudly marched past, symbolizing the enduring bond between generations. The School and the Old Sanawarian Society also honoured distinguished alumni whose remarkable achievements continue to uphold the school’s legacy of excellence and service. The OSS Lifetime Achievement Award 2025 was conferred upon Admiral Vishnu Bhagwat and Lt. Gen. Tejinder Singh Shergill (Retd), PVSM  while the distinguished Old Sanawarian Award 2025 was presented to Brig. T.P.S. Chowdhury, AVSM, Lalit Varma, Vivek Mehra, and  Manavendra Singh Pathania
The ceremony concluded with the Chief Guest presenting prizes to outstanding students and houses for their excellence in academics, sports, leadership and service.