A quarterly publication of Unity College

For January to march 2016

News & ViewsNews & ViewsBefore you start any work, you first make a mental plan and later you put on paper the entire working of the plan. Even in our day to day work before you retire at night make a mental plan of the important works you intend to do/ attend the next day. When you have a well-made plan and earnestly resolve to fulfill it, you will accomplish more in less time and with less expenditure of energy than you would otherwise do. The essential thing is to carry out your plan carefully. Assuming that you have made it as a result of intelligent planning, stick to it strictly.

From The Principal 's Desk

Francis Castelino

Small deeds done are better than great deeds planned. - Peter Marshell [1]

Class VI A brimming with zeal and enthusiasm took an innovative creativity of writing on dry leaves. Prior to the activity, they pressed and dried Peepal leaves in their books during winter break. Then on 5th of January, 2016, they wrote in ink on the topic 'Myself' on the dry leaves in the class. As the learning activity was interesting in itself, the students enjoyed it all through.

Classmate Spell Bee

Classes VIII and IX of Unity College participated in Classmate Spell Bee Contest Season 8 on 6th of January, 2016. It was powered by the Times of India with an aim to nurture education, through a celebration of words and spellings while vying with the best competitors all over India. Principal Mr. Francis Castelino appreciated the Times NIE programme in complementing the holistic education of a child in school.

Excursion to Cherish

Ahead of ISC Boards, the College privileged its outgoing students with a rollicking, regaling excursion to Shivgarh Resort on 7th of January, 2016. No sooner did the company of jovial students reach the picnic spot, than they rushed to explore the pastoral scenes. The sprawling vast ground dotted with shrubs and trees invigorated them to run and play, and observe the serene beauty of Mother Nature. Their joy and enthusiasm was no less when they boarded a tonga that moved rattling down the pavement. Amidst the lovely music of Nature, swings and slides added to their exuberance. They returned with hast of unforgettable memories. Indeed, the last school picnic imprinted a special place in their sweet recollections.

Kite Making Contest

On 8th of January, 2016, the College was abuzz with a lively activity of Kite Making organized for the Primary and Secondary students. It became a gala event as a large number of students showcased their artistic skills and aesthetic sense. High enthusiasm and keen interest prevailed all through the event. Each participant expressed himself as uniquely as possible. It created a really lovely eye-feasting panorama.Principal Mr. Francis Castelino appreciated the efforts put in by the students and teachers in making the event a beautiful learning activity.

Manuscript on Dry Leaf

Yellow Day The younglings of Pre Primary of Unity College observed the Yellow Day on Wednesday, 13th January, 2016 with an objective to make the children recognize different shades of yellow in real objects. Dressed in yellow, the children were asked to bring yellow food such as bananas and noodles for lunch. The teachers in accordance with the day's theme decorated the classes with yellow balloons and ribbons followed by various art & craft activities for the students. At the end of the day, the crafts were displayed on the soft board for the admiration of one and all. The toddlers enjoyed themselves as they participated in the celebration, and their happiness doubled when they received the yellow birds made by them to take home.

Our most profitable lessons are learned from failure. not success. - Frank Davidson [2]

School Picnic The cold chilly morning of 16th Jan, 2016, was greeted by the students and teachers as they went for picnic. Senior students of Secondary and Senior Secondary proceeded to Janeshwar Mishra Park while juniors of Primary Section to Ganga Aquarium. As the seniors entered the portals of Janeshwar Mishra Park, they were welcomed by the foggy atmosphere, biting wind and hazy view, still the hostile nature could not lessen their enthusiasm a bit. The first reaction of the students was to rush and explore all that was for grabs. Seeing the children park, their joy knew no bounds. They hurried to reach the swings of their choice. The charm of attractive swings left no one untouched. The sprawling lake too fascinated them. They played till they exhausted themselves. The junior group of rollicking students reached the Ganga Aquarium. They were eager to proceed and explore every species in the Gene Bank. Their eyes were wide open and the spontaneous exclamation of “Vow!” hummed as they watched a great number of species - ghost, gold, cat, parrot, alligator, etc. The most fascinating of all was the lion fish that moved elegantly with tiger striped fins spreading like a peacock. Then they proceeded to the main aquarium. There too the children gaped in astonishment watching the incredible aquatic world. At last rolling and sliding on swings completed their exhilaration of excursion. The students returned with a pack of sweet memories to be recollected in tranquillity and smile in the days to come.

Applauding the Cricket Champions On 21st of January, 2016, College Chairman Dr. S. Kalbe Sadiq congratulated and conferred honour on the Unity Cricket Champions for their landmark victories in not one or two but total three Inter School Tournaments this year. The meticulous training sessions in the evening coaching added to the stirring motivation and the zealous aspiration to bring laurels to the College. And the College team clinched the keenly contested trophies in a sequence of the Inter School Tournaments- Dr. S. M. Mishra, Khwaja Maroof and Jagaran Cricket Tournaments, and lifted the runners up Trophy in the Super House Cricket Tournament organized by DPS, Lucknow. No less the credit of the incredible hat trick goes to PTI Mr. Pradeep Ojha. He too was appreciated and honoured with the team. Dr. Kalbe Sadiq felicitated the winners in a special way by gifting each one with a track suit and sports shoes.

Esteemed Visitors Unity College was proud to welcome Ms. Huma Kazmi who was a recipient of TMT scholarship for M.B.B.S. at A.M.U. (1984-89). She is now a well-known Pediatrician and Adjunct Professor in London.Syed Adeel Abbas Kazmi, a successful marketing professional was another esteemed visitor who asserted that the visionary leadership of Dr. S. Kalbe Sadiq has shaped many a life in a truly constructive manner. Both the guests were impressed by overall maintenance, working and infra-structure of the college.

The greatest pleasure in life is doing what people say you cannot do. - Walter Bagehot [3]

Fire Drill A mock Fire Drill was conducted on the ground of Unity College on 21st January courtesy Fire Station, Chowk. Mr. Jitendra Kumar (F.S.O.) and Mr. K.B. Singh with their team gave the presentation to make the students aware of the composition of fire, kinds of fire and how to extinguish each. Their demonstration was greeted by a thunderous applause and the spectators returned home enriched and confident.

Republic Day With all patriotic fervour, exuberance and exultation, Unity family comprising Unity College, Unity College II shift and Unity Training Centre assembled in the sprawling ground to salute the Tiranga and the Nation on the occasion of the 67th Republic Day. The celebration commenced with the flag hoisting by the College Chairman Dr. S. Kalbe Sadiq followed by the Nation Anthem. All the four houses made the function vibrant with their zealous participation and immeasurable sentiments. A number of speeches in English and Urdu brimming with love and service for the nation were delivered. Patriotic songs echoed around striking each soul to strive, to seek, to find, and not to yield in the service of the Nation. The most meaningful song 'Heal the World' had an electrifying effect in the ambience to strengthen the present and create a better future.Continuing the spontaneity of the very chord, Unity College II shift presented a mind blowing skit endorsing the fact that every religion propagates the lesson of universal brotherhood, negating the religious differences. Then the song 'Ye chaman hamara hai' mesmerized one and all as the children dressed in traditional attires of India beautifully conveyed the strong message of 'Unity in Diversity'. College Chairman Dr. S. Kalbe Sadiq blessed the children to shine like the sun and the moon, and urged the students to gain knowledge because only through education they can carve a niche for themselves in the present progressive world. Addressing the students, Principal Mr. Francis Castelino said that the constitution came into effect to opportune us with the facilities for an easy and good life. Despite all privileges, there is discontentment all around. The reason is hatred and intolerance. Hence we must try to better ourselves by following the constitution. The function concluded with a vote of thanks, a bundle of smiles and a packet of sweets.

Artistic Hands at Work On 6th of February, 2016, the Pre Primary and Junior sections showcased their artistic craftsmanship on the day of Art & Craft Workshop. They were given two hours time to complete their creations and one hour to set up the exhibits for their parents and some other esteemed visitors to the college.Different classes fanned their aesthetic creativity on a range of topics. The Pre-Primary Section, with their nimble hands prepared various items as fish, caterpillars, sheep, flower baskets, school vans, Chinese dolls and small dust bins. Class I & II students put up eye catching photo frames and pencil-stands. Class III students attracted the visitors by their masks of cartoons and animals, whereas Class IV set up gift wrappings. Class V made flora and fauna of Jungle scenes. Class VI students amazed the onlookers by their glass and tile paintings. Class VII presented beautiful vases and flowers whereas Class VIII drew accolades by preparing various items like baskets, photo frames, wall hangings, aeroplanes, rockets out of waste apart from some working models of water coolers, robots and remote cars. They also did T-shirt painting.Dr. Hasnain Dewji from Canada, along with a few family members graced the occasion and was all praise for the entire show. The parents also congratulated the teachers and the management for setting up this Art & Craft Workshop. The encouraging words of the College Chairman Dr. S. Kalbe Sadiq worked as a booster for the enthusiastic kids who were proud to be a part of the Unity family.

No life ever grows great until it is focused, dedicated, disciplined. - Harry Emerson Fordick [4]

Bidding Adieu to the Twelfthies The final year students of ISC were given a poignant farewell on 1st of February, 2016. Their juniors arranged the send-off party in the Central Hall which was festooned with myriad coloured balloons and ribbons. It was implicit of their love and regards for the seniors. Addressing the students, College Chairman Dr. S. Kalbe Sadiq showered all fatherly love and blessings. He urged the students to remain in touch, even in their future endeavours. Then Secretary Mr. Najmul Hasan Rizvi blessed the students that the lessons learned at school may help them in their life ahead.The party commenced with the slide presentation that brought alive the memories of school life. Indeed, the day was a fiesta devoted to the years spent together with friends and teachers to reminiscence joyous moments. It was followed by a number of sprightly games and songs enthusing charm in the emotional ambience. A few humorous games ensued peals of laughter among the guests and the hosts. The humorous skit of a lively classroom transported the guest students down the memory lane of class Nursery to Primary and then to the senior most class, where they find themselves brimming with confidence and aspirations. Then amidst cheers and foot tapping music a number of titles for Sportsmanship, Innocence, Computer Maestro, Congeniality, Performance and many more were conferred on the deserving candidates. The most coveted title of Mr. Unity and Ms. Unity crowned Rizwan Aksari and Ms. Mehvish Khan respectively.Towards conclusion, Academic Supervisor Ms. T. Z. Naqvi recited her self-authored lines of sweet blessings upon the outgoing students. Principal Mr. Francis Castelino wished the outgoing students brilliant success in the forthcoming boards. He also exhorted them to accomplish their ambitions in the best, righteous way.The party culminated on the high note of a bright future and nostalgia of school life.

Counselling of Weak Students On 8th of February, 2016, the Sectional Heads of Primary and Secondary Wings conducted a motivational session in their respective sections for the weak students with an objective to dispel examination blues, ahead of the Annual Examination. Firstly they advised them to set up a goal and then work towards achieving it. They also triggered their emotional sentiments by reminding them of the love and sacrifice of their parents in making them a happy person. Besides regular studies, they were advised to introspect their weak areas and then to work upon them for success.

Workshop on 'Stress Management' Hope Initiatives, led by Mr. Jaideep and Ms. Reshma Sami conducted an interactive workshop on Stress Management at Unity for Class IX students on 23rd February, 2016. They were given Do's and Don'ts to cut down exam stress. Belief in oneself, concentration, interest and confidence required to overcome the exam fear. They were also suggested various stress busting exercises. Overall it was an info-motivational session.

Unity Explorer.Com

A Company of Unity Alumni comprising Mr. Yasir Siddiqui, Mr. Tauqir Alam and Mr. Mohd. Hamza initiated a philanthropic deed under the banner 'ONE CITY, ONE COMMUNITY' with the sole motive to help the needy and the poor. The present Unity students generously donated old and new clothes for the cause. It was later distributed among the destitute in Aishbagh and Indira Nagar Slums. The group also presented tokens of appreciation to the students along with College Principal Mr. Francis Castelino and Counsellor Ms. Nisar Fatima without whose co-ordination and co-operation the great deed was impossible.T h e s e E x - U n i t i a n s h a v e c r e a t e d a w e b s i t e 'Lucknowexplorer.com' that is a developing platform for e-commerce. Its objective is to introduce Lucknow-its heritage, culture and trade to the Digital World.

If we don't change, we don't grow. If we don't grow, we aren't really living. - Gail Sheehy [5]

Prep Graduation 2015-16Pre Primary Wing of Unity College organized the Convocation Ceremony of Class Prep on 22nd of March, 2016. The function commenced in spiritual ambience with the divine rendition followed by an enlightening number depicting the etiquettes and significance of 'Bismillah Hir Rehmanir Rahim' and 'Alhumdu Lillah'. The toddlers of Lower Nursery attired in attractive dresses were an eye-feasting sight in itself. And their innocent moves on the song completely mesmerized the audience. Then the stage was set to rock on the rhythmic beats of 'Ye masti me bahut aage nikal jane ka din hai' by Class Upper Nursery. Their lovely performance spread an aura of laughter and friendship among all. Last in the sequence, but the most significant was a mono-skit by Class Preparatory. It was a didactic act endorsing the fact that a child who is loved and cared at home, does well in school too. This fabulous act was followed by the action song 'Jame raho' that appealed the parents to be caring and devoting besides being loving and adoring. Finally the most awaited moments struck when the proud students of class Preparatory in black gowns and degree caps marched smartly on the dais to receive their Prep Graduation Degrees. The broad smiles on their faces marked their sweet emotions of exultation and aspiration.The Chief Guest on the occasion was the renowned personality of the city, Dr. Upma Chaturvedi, Professor of Geography and Principal of Awadh Girl's Degree College, Lucknow, who has recently been honoured with Shabd Sarita Shiksha Gaurav Sammaan. She was all impressed by the feel of warmth and unity in the campus. She also applauded the role of a teacher in handling and teaching a host of children so well where the parents are full of complaints for one or two. Addressing the parents, Chairman of the College, Dr. S. Kalbe Sadiq, stressed on girls' education and women empowerment that gives a strong foundation to a successful society. The grand ceremony concluded with the vote of thanks by College Secretary Mr. Najmul Hasan Rizvi.

Counselling of Class VIIIAs a good-bye gesture to the final year students of the junior section, a counselling session was organized just after the examination on 11th March, 2016. Principal Mr. Francis Castelino advised the students to ponder over their aptitude and interest before choosing the Science and Commerce streams of ICSE. He also emphasized that more and more students should opt for Science as it makes their base stronger for ISC. College Counsellor Ms. Nisar Fatima reiterated that in the present scenario, knowledge of Science and Mathematics is the requirement of almost every field. Besides, they should not go with their friend's choice, but on the basis of their own caliber. She wished them all success in future. In conclusion, a 'Frooti' to each student brought smiles on promotion to the Secondary Section.

Times Quiz Yasir Husain and Fatima Naqvi of Class XI participated in the Quiz Contest organized by the Times of India in collaboration with U.P. Forest Department and C.P. (Clat Possible) on 19th of March, 2016. The event was scheduled to mark the World Sparrow Day that falls on 20th March. The quiz was based on bird quotient. It was an enriching experience for our students.

ICS International Painting Competition 2015Asra Laiq and Anhuma Islam of Class XI A and Safeena Farooq of Class XI C participated in ICS International Painting Competition 2016. The young artists expressed themselves through the attractive medium of colours on the them 'My favourite holiday destination' in the month of October, 2015. Their paintings have been couriered to be adjudged by the concerned panel of judges. The chosen paintings will appear in the ICS yearly calendar.

Enacting the Merchant of VeniceClass VIII-C presented Act I: scene II of the Merchant of Venice with attractive props on 24th of February, 2016. The students enacted the maidenly roles of Portia and Nerissa with full conviction, effective expressions, and eloquent dialogues. The act will surely make it easy for the students to understand the nuances of Shakespearian drama, especially when they keep themselves in shoes of the characters. The Section Head was full of praise for the students and their teacher for putting up such an impressive act in the classroom.

Unity College- II shift holds 'A Farewell 'The farewell of Class XII was organized in Unity College II shift. It was planned and conducted by students of Class XI. The students of Class XII were warmly welcomed with sweets and flowers. At the onset of the party a welcome song was sung followed by amusing games. Gifts and titles were also given to each and every outgoing student. The College Secretary Mr. Najmul Hasan Rizvi motivated the students with encouraging words that hurdles are to overcome, and knowledge is to gain success and prosperity. The farewell culminated with the cutting of a cake and the power point presentation that retraced the sweet memories of students and teachers. Principal Ms. Shabana Ahmad addressed the students and blessed them for stupendous success in the forthcoming board

Unity College II Shift

Editor : Mrs. Mahlaqua Siddiqui [6]

Twelfthies at Water ParkThe present and the previous batches of Class XII were taken to Amrapali Water Park. Students and their respective teachers left the school in a bus, making merry at the top of their voices when passing through, made the journey enjoyable and pleasant. As they reached the park, waves in the pool steeped in golden colour of the noon sun seemed to invite all. Students jumped, swam and splashed. Then they enjoyed the tasty food. Rides like Columbus, toy train and slides also attracted the students. The teachers too joined in the fun by sitting on the rides. The day ended with the children reminiscing the memories captured in the hearts and the minds.

Kho-Kho MatchAn Inter House Kho- Kho Match was conducted on 29th and 30th December, 2015, under the guidance of PTI Ms. Shaahina Jafri. It was a cold winter day, but the spirits of the girls were very high. The chase was built up through a series of 'khos' as the chasers continued their pursuit in a relay manner. All the matches were furiously fought. After the final match, Mother Teresa House emerged victorious followed by Asafud-daula House as runners up.

A Staff Picnic Accommodated in two buses the staff members made their way to Janeshwar Park in the afternoon. Songs, snacks and smiling faces made the journey a befitting beginning to a fun filled day. Staff members were bubbling with energy at the sprawling lawns of the park. The atmosphere was filled with cackling sounds when selfies and groupings were being clicked. Teachers gave their best poses in the scenic location of Janeshwar Park. From there, they headed for 'Tundey Restaurant' as it was already late afternoon and yearning for food was at its peak. The ambience of the restaurant was filled with aroma of delicious dishes. Delicacies were served hot and it was nothing less than mouthwatering. Post lunch all came back with sweet memories of a relaxing day spent with colleagues.

A Workshop on 'Communication Skills'Unity College II shift organized a Workshop on Communication Skills with the help of NGO, 'Roshni', keeping in view that good communication skills builds confidence to face a job or college interview. Students were acquainted with the basic skills of communication and manners. They observed and learned keenly how to wish, how to respond or how to interact with people on different occasions. The Resource Person Ms.Shweta also helped children know how to behave in new and perhaps uncomfortable situations.The Principal Ms. Shabana Ahmad appreciated the sincere conviction of the Resource Person and the active participation of the students.