Paradip, Jan 12: The former students of Kendriya Vidyalaya in Paradip came forth to rejuvenate their alma mater.

The alumni meeting turned out to be a confidence-boosting event with the old pupils pledging to extend support for academic growth of the school.

“Established in 1974, the school has witnessed rapid growth in the 36 years of its existence. It has churned out several students who have successfully established themselves in various walks of life,” said principal, P.C. Rath.

“We have decided to start awarding a running trophy to the best student of Classes X and XII respectively. Apart from this, we are shortly going to open up a special gallery in the school library with books contributed by the Alumni Association,” said Dilip Routrai, spokesman of the alumni association.

“I am in the state civil service. I owe my academic success to Kendriya Vidyalaya. It’s a gesture on my part to contribute towards the growth of the school. The school has been instrumental in building our career and we want it to churn out many more successful students,” said Routrai.

“When the school came up in the early ’70s, Kendriya Vidyalaya was a force to reckon with. Till today it has maintained its track record. We are proud to be part of the alumni of Kendriya Vidyalaya,” said Subhash Gupta, President, alumni association.

“Many of old students have settled abroad and are pursuing successful professional careers. Fond memories of the school life made us come all the way to Paradeep,” quipped Gupta. The alumni association members were given warm reception by the new students and teachers. The old students interacted with the students of Classes XI and XII and shared the secret of their success.

“The mantra of success is A (Attitude), B (belief), C (Character), D (Dream),” explained Routrai.

The old students were ecstatic: “Whatever we are today and whatever we hope to be is because of this school. It has taught us the values of discipline, sincerity, honesty and hard work.”

“It is time to give back what we have got from school,” said Naresh Gupta, another former student.