Earlier the valedictory session of the World Education Conference began
in the evening at 4:30 p.m. on the 22nd July 2008. Dr. Narendranath
Reddy, Member, Sri Sathya Sai World Foundation expressed gratitude to
Bhagawan for His benevolence in making the event a most successful one.
Talking about Bhagawan, Dr. Reddy said, “Bhagawan is the finest example
of Education in Practice as He is One in all and none can comprehend His
majesty”. Universe as a whole is a University and Bhagawan is the
Chancellor of this University. Everyone, every being is entitled to get
the degree, ‘Amritasya Putraha’, added Dr. Reddy talking about Bhagawan
and His glory.
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Golden Lingam materialized by
Sai Baba 21st JULY
2008
Next to speak was Sri Nimesh Pandya, a leading attorney from Mumbai
spearheading Bhagawan’s EHV Mission in India who presented summary and
proposal of the deliberations just concluded, pertaining to India. The
Sri Sathya Sai Educare programme is that Divine light that dispels
ignorance and gain us entry in to the secret of ultimate said Mr. Pandya
summarising the outcome of entire two days of hectic deliberations. Mr.
Pandya said there were 99 Sri Sathya Sai Schools in India and all the
State Trusts and Organisations would render all out support to these
institutions as a part of fulfilling their mission towards society. Four
Institute of Sri Sathya Sai Educations would be inducted, subject to
Divine Permission, to help and guide the 99 schools to become worthy of
their mission. Quoting Bhagawan’s often referred example, front wheel is
the guru, back wheel is the parents and the vehicle carrying the child
could not move without the co-operation and co-ordination of teachers
and parents, he stressed on the greater importance of the role of
parents and teachers in moulding the children as worthy instruments in
His mission. Photos 22, July 2008
Dr. Michael Goldstein expressing His grateful thanks to Bhagawan for His
Divine magnanimity in having blessed them to conduct a successful
exercise over the last three days said we need to carry out His legacy,
we need to be focussed in our efforts, stressing on the importance of
carrying forward the Mission. Referring to the 5 D’s Bhagawan often
mentions in His Divine Discourses, namely, Devotion, Discipline,
Dedication, Determination and Discrimination, he said the delegates
participated in the conference demonstrated these qualities amply to
make the same a success to follow with the principles and aim of the
conference. We will be true exemplars of the principles of Educare when
we realise our innate Divinity. Until then we are spiritual aspirants
striving for inner realisation. We aspire to be uplifting, inspiring,
loving contributors of spiritual uplift and for worldly improvement for
the uplift of man, said Dr. Goldstein, exhorting the delegates that the
conference was a unique, precious opportunity to gather in His Divine
Presence to seek His Divine Guidance.
Referring to the long journey undertaken by the contingents to attend
the conference in Prasanthi Nilayam, Bhagawan said they were the
fortunate ones, the chosen ones. He posed a question to them: Having
come from such long distances what was it that they supposed to know?
They should recognise the five human values said Bhagawan adding that
they would be educated in true sense if they were embracing these five
values.
Here are the points from His Divine Discourse:
Unity is not found today; all are brothers and sisters; Father is ONE
and HE is GOD.
One needs to develop firm conviction that all are children of same God.
There can be defects in some children, but, they need to be understood
and adequately adjusted.
Scientific explorations in the name of helping society are in turn
harming the society.
All should make attempt to lead a life of love.
People talk about peace; but, one can only find pieces now-a-days. We
divide the country into pieces. We should develop the spirit of
nationality. If asked about the place where we are coming from, one
should be able to answer that we are coming from so and so country, not
the city name. Nationality is important. One should develop
broadmindedness and lead a life accordingly. Once we develop
broadmindedness children also in turn would develop broadmindedness. If
you want children to be perfect, parents need to be perfect.
Parents should not be separated. Mother and father should stand united
in teaching their children. Truth should be other human values, Right
Action, Peace, Love and Non-violence comes.
What is Truth? Truth is the harmony of Thought, Word and Deed.
Now-a-days everything is artificial. Everything should come from the
heart.
Mind is responsible for both liberation and bondage. Mind should be
checked.
Good thoughts lead to lead to good actions which in turn lead to good
results. One should ensure that all thoughts are sacred.
Mind should be under our control and not reverse. Mind is a mad monkey.
When the same is directed to God, it turns silent. To know the illusion,
mind should be directed to God.
Love is Truth, Truth is Love, Live in Love. It is not worldly love, it
is spiritual love.
Ensure that mind is directed to God. You may think it is a difficult
task. It is a very simple task.
Everything happens as per God’s Will. None can claim any doership.
End result is in the Hands of God. Once you follow God all things are
bound to be successful. Divine Law is Love. Follow the Divine Law. Once
you develop this Divine feeling of love your future children’s future
will be taken care of.
We have stuffed all bad qualities in us; once offer the same to God, it
becomes empty and you will in turn experience happiness.
Develop Love; with this Love you can achieve anything.
You may have enough money; be ready to sacrifice; help the poor; carry
on your life with the spirit of sacrifice which will redeem your life.
Bhagawan exhorted one and all including children to develop perfect
character and lead an ideal life.
After three days full of constructive deliberations, cultural
programmes, Bhagawan making His presence all the more obvious with three
Divine Discourses, His perennial words of Wisdom, it was time for the
curtain to be drawn. And the stage was set for the grand finale; the
final cultural programme was on the life and devotion of Bhakta
Jayadeva, India’s celebrated musical saint.
Students of Sri Sathya Sai Vidya Vihar, Alwaye, Kerala enacted a
wonderful music dance drama, perfect portrayal of devotion in its
pristine glory, an apt conclusion for a mammoth world conference on
Sathya Sai Education. Jayadeva had not only the name ‘deva’ (God)
imbibed in his name, but also God Himself seated on a large throne
within his heart. Jayadeva, known for his Gita Govindam, was popularly
known as Bhakta Kavi. His undaunted devotion for Lord Krishna turned him
into a poet and made him pen down the popular Gita Govindam. It was this
Devotion at its pristine glory that was on display on the valedictory
twilight session in Prasanthi Nilayam in the immediate Divine Presence
of Bhagawan.
Under the glittering roof of Sai Kulwant Hall shining in brilliance with
artificial lights, added by the ever resplendent lustre of Bhagawan’s
immediate Divine Presence, thousands filled to capacity witnessed the
life in the drama evolving into feeling of ecstasy. The tiny tots from
the school, that had its inception just four year’s ago, enacted
brilliantly to steal the Divine Heart and Bhagawan spent considerable
time out in the middle, posing for a coveted photo session, presenting
them with gifts.
A mammoth world conference for a wonderful cause, to be most worthy
instruments at His Divine Hands through Sathya Sai Education.
Sri Sathya Sai World
Conference on Education Speeches
by Representatives of National and International Organisation Morning, July 21, 2008
On the 21st morning, the second day of the conference, there were four
speakers sharing thoughts with the audience. The first speaker, Tom
Scovill, gave a brilliant exposition on the subject ‘true education’
going in to intricate details as to what was true education and how true
education could be imparted? We could only listen closely and attempt to
carry them out in our lives; we could watch Him carefully and emulate
His deeds. Over the years, through His stream of Wisdom, through His
Divine Discourses, He has enlightened us of the very purpose of life, to
reach our inherent Divinity. Referring to Bhagawan’s often given
guidelines to teachers to impart true education, the speaker reiterated
the primary requisite of a teacher to become a living example of values.
Touching upon inspiring stories of impacts in lives brought about by
Sathya Sai Education, Dr. Scovill said, True Education is that which
inspires, elevates, draws out inherent Divinity from within; it is heart
to heart and between teacher and student. Before concluding he stressed
on the greater importance to involve His Name Sathya Sai in these
programmes, as it has power and potency in it.
Dr. B.G.Pitre, Director of Institute of Sri Sathya Sai Education,
Mumbai, speaking on the topic ‘Spiritual Principles of Sri Sathya Sai
Educare’ gave a detailed exposition on the technical aspect of Sai
Spiritual Education. Teachers will have to be role models. We need to
transplant values into our own environment, a job teacher need to carry
out as a must. Integral Education is important; principle of Educare is
to be imparted. Nurturing, caring, involving, expediential learning,
timing for introspection etc, all need to be taken care of. Teacher has
to be a friend, philosopher and guide. There has never been a curriculum
in the history of mankind which now has been given to us by Bhagawan in
the form of Sri Sathya Sai Educare, which is bringing sweeping
transformation. Bhagawan is a world teacher and a world purifier, who
comes down and mixes with all of us to raise us to the level of
consciousness, He desires us to achieve, and Educare is the true weapon
to achieve the same, exhorted Dr. Pitre to the vast gathering of
delegates congregated in the Sai Kulwant Hall.
The next to follow was a Dr. Dalton De Souza Amarim, a Professor in
Biology, National Educational Co-ordinator from Brazil. Talking about
his slow still steady graduation into Bhagawan’s Lotus Feet, Dr. Amarim
acknowledged the he experienced his first taste of Unconditional Love
once he reached Bhagawan for the first time and there began his life.
Briefly narrating his professional success story as a scientist, quoting
Bhagawan he said, science is split of Love whereas Sai-ence is the
spirit of Love. Talking highly of the Sathya Sai Students, whom he took
as role models and source of inspiration as an SSE teacher, the speaker
said, in the western world students are exposed to worldly education,
but in Prasanthi Nilayam he experienced the essence of True Education,
that takes one to totality, a blend of academic excellence suffused with
Love for God. A teacher should be a role model, source of love and must
have constant integrated awareness in order to qualify to guide and lead
the children towards progress. May all Sathya Sai Schools flourish,
shine sharing Bhagawan’s Love and Message with the entire mankind,
concluded Dr. Amarim a most inspiring, touching, a speech in defacto,
that showcased the pure, essential and ought to be approach by a teacher
towards Sathya Sai Education.
Dr. Srinivasan SriRangarajan, a former student of Sathya Sai University
and currently serving as a faculty in the School of Business Management,
Prasanthi Nilayam presented a lucid, technical and most expounding
speech talking about Educare. Taking a cue from the previous day’s
Divine Discourse, he said, there are four essential E’s, namely,
Example, Experience, Empowerment and Ennoble to be taken care of.
Explaining the first point, he said a teacher should be a role model to
the students to enable them to watch and emulate. The second E comes
when we need to experiment within us to know the Divinity inherent in.
When mind makes contact with the heart, the intellect awakens. We need
to work on empowering the intellect of children to allow them to
discriminate between the real and unreal. Having reached this point one
need to take care to ennoble, to sustain the momentum, to sustain the
success, one needs to ennoble his life. All this should happen with Love
as the key factor. With Bhagawan around us, to guide and lead, Educare
finds its true fulfilment in His Divine University, concluded the
speaker exhorting fellow students from Bhagawan’s university to embark
on the journey of Educare.
Sri Sathya Sai World
Conference on Education
Speeches, Divine Discourse, Russian Folk Music
Evening, July 21, 2008 - Second Divine
Discourse on Education Conference, 21 Jul 2008
The first speaker for the 21st evening was a veteran devotee from the
African nation Zambia, Dr. Victor Kanu, who was Sierra Leone’s
ambassador to the United Kingdom, Director of African Institute of
Sathya Sai Education, Member, Sri Sathya Sai World Foundation’s
Education Committee, and the person who was instrumental in the
inception of the much famous Miracle School in Zambia that produced cent
percent result year after year. In a most powerful rhetoric excellence,
Mr. Kanu described the ongoing conference as an extra ordinary one, a
Divine Conference as the blue print of Sathya Sai Education was
conceived by Bhagawan Himself. Referring to the path of Integral
education that was declared during the inception of Sri Sathya Sai
Institute of Higher Learning (now Sri Sathya Sai University) Mr. Kanu
highlighted that in Bhagawan’s Institute the medium of instruction was
discipline and the language was Love. He went in detail about the unique
ways of teaching in the Institute, citing examples of ethics that were
given higher importance. Quoting Bhagawan he said, there shall be a
common link, a combination of the physical, ethical, spiritual and
metaphysical in its delivery of education and, this is integral
education. In an apparent reference to Africa’s current plight and
things needed to be done for its economic, social and political
development, he said, Africa will not change; it is Sathya Sai Education
that is going to change Africa. Faith and Trust are the need of the hour
and with Faith and Trust in Bhagawan we could replicate the Sathya Sai
Education everywhere.
Mr. Jeremy Hoeffer, a high school teacher from the United States, the
second speaker, starting his speech on a personal note narrating how he
could not find happiness in his life in spite having many good teachers
during his adulthood days. America is slated to be a rich nation without
property; but, it is not right; poverty America suffers is the poverty
of happiness, poverty of values. Having posed the to Bhagawan Himself as
to how one could tackle the issue of God, when in the secular country
like America one was not allowed to talk about God, Bhagawan said, “God
is a just a word”. Faith is required for every single person in the
world; it is a universal human value. Narrating his own personal
experience as teacher he reiterated that every single child has his
right to come up with better education, has the right to come up in life
without being discriminated and we need to have faith in their ability.
Bhagawan’s teachings were absolutely applicable in every corner of the
world. He ended his speech with a prayer that Bhagawan would lift up the
children of this world. Narrating a beautiful personal experience that
had happened in Brindavan wherein Bhagawan said, ‘Everything is in His
Hand’, he prayed to Bhagawan that nothing needs Bhagawan more than
Sathya Sai Education and the children of the world.
The third speaker for the session Mr. Kaw, Dean, Sri Sathya Sai
International Centre gave a complete report on the activities and
statistical details of Sri Sathya Sai International Centre, New Delhi
that has been set up by Bhagawan to promote Education in Human Values.
Next to follows was Sri Sanjay Mahalingam, a research scholar from
Sathya Sai University. Narrating the beautiful story of Lord Buddha and
Ananta as explained by Bhagawan, he said the agony of separation after
spending a complete life with Buddha, brought him realisation, he said,
the chosen one is the one who understands the infinite possibilities
that Bhagawan stands for and Educare teaches us to stay in the present.
“Let us remember when Bhagawan speaks there is another discourse that
goes on. But, let us not loose ourselves in His words that His words are
very beautiful. But, between His words there pervades utter silence. And
all His words come from that silence. And few are those who can stay
there in that silence between His words. And that silence takes us to
the place where His words come from. And that silence is His real
discourse” said Sri Mahalingam concluding His speech.
This was followed by a Divine Discourse that was more or less a question
answer session wherein Bhagawan answered selected questions from the
delegates and went in detail explaining various issues. Here are the
points he dwelled into.
Education becomes useless unless it is translated into practice.
You need to examine yourself first as to whether you have firm faith.
One needs to develop firm faith.
Punishment is a caution and should not be taken in the usual sense.
Student should remain as student, teacher to remain as a teacher.
Teacher should continue to help transforming the child.
Teacher should conduct himself/herself in a most exemplary way to help
the students to emulate. Teacher should not do anything that he/she does
not want the student to emulate. Teacher should set an example by
practising the precept.
Teacher should consider girl students as his own sisters and this in
turn would help them to inculcate virtues. Teacher should lead an ideal
life and help students to become ideal.
Parents should not discuss family matters in presence of children.
Parents should first cultivate human values so that children will
develop the courage to go ahead. Parents should practice and set an
example. Students in turn should not give any trouble to parents.
Students should have deep rooted feeling on the sacrifice by parents.
In spite of having own families, make sure that parents are not
neglected. Educated man is not supposed to do this. It is the primal
duty of all students to make their parents happy. Tell Me your company,
I shall tell you who you are. Never get into bad company. It is your
foremost responsibility.
If you make your parents suffer for your own selfish gains that is the
greatest of the sins. Parents also should educate their children about
their responsibilities.
Desire good for your parents; discharge your duties. Never get into
other’s affairs. Never let your temper loose to your parents who are
your well wishers. Never make your aged parents shed tears. When you
please your parents you will be happy.
It is absolutely essential for parents to understand human values and
then only they can teach their children about the same. It is necessary
to put them into practice.
If mothers get to jobs who will take care of their children? Do you
expect the servant maid to take care of their children? No. Better
resign the job and take care of your children. One should take care of
family responsibilities and nothing wrong to get to job if children are
well taken care of.
Parents should be ideal, exemplary in presence of children. Discipline,
Devotion, Duty are most essential. We should show our children the way
to God.
Sathya Sai Education system should be explained to parents in detail.
Children can do the same to parents.
Ceiling on desires…Do not waste money, do not waste food, do not waste
time…waste of money is evil; waste of money is sin.
One needs to be careful and exemplary in his behaviour in the society.
Mistakes can be blown up.
(The entire discourse with complete questions and answers would be
published on our website soon)
Music has a soul and it is often expressed through melody and through
expressions. And it was melody at its best, and expression that takes
directly in to the Divine that were on display, on the twilight session
followed by the Divine Discourse, by the contingent belonging to the
erstwhile USSR. Led by conductor Ms. Brodnikova Tatiana from Russia, the
troupe sang songs in six different languages belonging to six different
countries form the former soviet socialist republic and in their
devotional fervour they preferred USSR to be termed as Union of Sathya
Sai Republic. Bhagawan sat through the entire twilight session in
earnest attendance and even asked the conductor to sing an extra item.
The troupe had undergone hectic rehearsal sessions away in Russia before
coming over to Prasanthi Nilayam and running up to the session they had
been continuing the hectic schedule to make the show a perfect piece of
dedication at His Divine Lotus Feet. He alone draws; He alone makes them
close to Him; He alone sings through their hearts; and He alone
enjoys…with one aim, to bring the whole world onto one platform where
the language of the heart is Love…Love…Love alone, Love that conquers…to
make us understand that All are One…One alone…!!!
Towards the end of the programme Bhagawan materialised a Linga in golden
colour to the delight of one and all. It was at the end of the world
Conference that Bhagawan announced that the same would be presented to
Dr. Michael Goldstein, Chairman, Sri Sathya Sai World Foundation. The
Linga would grow in size and the water from its abhisheka could be
served to sick people, Bhagawan asked to announce.
Learning To Be has been identified as the end goal of Sri
Sathya Sai Education. In his attempt to become That, there is a greater
need for him to inculcate human values in his life, said Bhagawan in His
Divine Discourse inaugurating the Sri Sathya Sai International
Educational Conference on the sidelines of Gurupoornima Celebrations.
Austrian Hallelujah
Sai Choir Austria sings in praise of the Divine!
God’s love and magnanimity has something that is
mysterious and thus difficult to fathom. One can only keep thinking of
Greater Heaven for all magnanimity that is bestowed upon the entire
creation with grateful thanks. "Hallelujah" is considered as a joyful
word of praise to GOD which comes for several references in the bible,
especially in the book of Psalms. Sai Choir from Austria had the rare
privilege to sing this song of praise to Lord along with a bouquet of
nine other songs in the immediate Divine presence of Bhagawan on the
twilight of 19th July 2008 on the sidelines of the Sri Sathya Sai World
Education Conference.
The feeling of joy of sitting and singing in the
immediate presence of Lord in Physical was apparent on the beaming faces
of the choir members, both men and women and it was a torrential outpour
of devotion in the form of music during the twilight session. Starting
the programme with the song Dass Du mich
einstimmen lasst, expressing gratitude to Bhagawan for the
opportunity granted to them, the troupe sang the second song
Wenn wir erklimme, expressing the
meaning that together we are climbing the mountain of life with full
desire to reach the goal of merging with God, facing all challenges,
enjoying the wonderful beauty of nature, which is the ornaments of our
Supreme Lord. The next to come was from the composition of Austria’s
illustrious composer W. A. Mozart, and the song was “Hallelujah”, the
song in praise of The Lord which was followed by a song on Sathya Sai,
Gurudev Gurudev composed by a devotee from Austria. The sixth song was
an exclusive song, Werte de Lebens,
on five Human Values followed by Atme in
uns, a song, a speedy prayer to the Holy Spirit for enlightenment,
love and transformation. Andachtsjodler
was the next to come, a devotional yodeller for praising the Lord at
midnight mass. An old famous Austrian folk song about the splendour of
nature, In die Berg bin I gern was
the eight piece that was followed by Lob
and Preis, is yet again another invitation to one and all to come
and sing in praise of the Lord, and the last piece was
Vater unser acknowledging that with
the Lord’s Prayer, which is the most common prayer in the Christian
tradition, the troupe got the unique opportunity and immense grace to
praise the Lord in Physical in their mother tongue.
Sitting through the entire session watching the
graceful artistes, singing their hearts out, Bhagawan asked them to
continue for two more repeated songs. Expressing happiness, “Very Happy”
in so many words, simultaneously gesticulating with His typical hand
movement, and with His face beaming in complete satisfaction, He showed
His greater concern and love asking the conductor, who was apparently
appeared to have tired after his physically demanding conductor show,
whether he wanted water…and lo! He replied through the mike, “Yes,
Swami, I want water”. And up came in no time glasses of water at His
Divine command.
It is not only the Divine discourses and Sai
Literature that can impart lessons from Sathya Sai. Every moment with
Him, every movement of Sai is a great lesson to learn. The subtlety in
His actions is indeed to be noted and analysed, introspected and one is
bound to get greater lessons, bound to reap richer benefits.
Inauguration
It was during the evening session on 20th
July 2008 when Bhagawan formally inaugurated the World Conference by
lighting the lamp on the dais. Dr. Michael Goldstein, Chairman, Sathya
Sai World Foundation, the official body overseeing the activities of Sri
Sathya Sai International Organisation, addressing the delegates
acknowledged, referring to the entire contingent for the conference and
devotees in general who were assembled, that they were all there because
they were drawn to the basis of love and light, the spiritual source. In
an attempt to give an overview of the conference as an official
responsibility, he said, the conference having bore the Divine Name
should have a spiritual overview, and Bhagawan only could give it as it
was conceived and created by Him alone. “Let us apply His Divine Name
and Teachings seriously and responsibly to all aspects of education, Let
us apply His Divine Name and Teachings reverently and lovingly to all
aspects of our lives; The Divine Name is sacred, it is powerful, it is
our salvation”. The spirit of Unity emphasised by Bhagawan should be
inculcated in practice and precept as Spiritual Unity is Divine and it
is Heart to Heart, exhorted Dr. Goldstein claiming that the participants
from different parts of the world, were able to sit together and discuss
in Spiritual Unity in a common platform for a common goal. Referring to
the two fold instructions received from Bhagawan in their run up to the
Conference, Dr. Goldstein said, Unity, the first command received from
the Lord has been put in practice to the best of their ability. With
reference to the second command that all the participants should come
prepared in their respective countries before coming over to Prasanthi
Nilayam for the conference and 86 pre-world conferences were conducted
in 73 countries in a six month period, questions were generated from
participants and would be discussed during the conference in Prasanthi
Nilayam.
The theme of the conference is principles,
authenticity, accountability and service to mankind; let us understand
the Divine Principles set forth by Bhagawan, let us internalise these
principles to become exemplars, let us incorporate these principles in
our educational programmes correctly so that the programmes are
spiritually authentic, let us maintain this spiritual authenticity by
evaluating our conduct and once we are done with these we are ready for
service. Principles are the source of our programme, authenticity is the
ideals for which we strive, accountability is the imperative to which we
must adhere and selfless service is the result of understanding Sai
Principles by being accountable and making sure that we are ever
vigilant as to the manner in which we conduct. These are the essence of
Sai Spiritual Education added Dr. Goldstein.
How do we maintain these principles, spiritual
purity of Sai Education as it passes through generation of worldly
delusion, distortion? How can we stress, impress and redress the need,
the imperatives to maintain practice and reflect the highest spiritual
principles in all that we do? How can we perpetuate spiritual
authenticity in a world brought with iniquity? posed Dr. Goldstein
hoping that Bhagawan would answer these questions during the course of
the conference.
When the personification of redemption sits
before us in the form of Bhagawan we need not doubt, fear, and hesitate,
rather should open our hearts to His Divine and everlasting Love said
Dr. Goldstein concluding his inspiring rhetoric.
This is the century of Sai. A century which will
see the dawning of an age of Love and Peace all over the world, a
century which will see the realisation of a world in which mankind will
live in accordance with the principles of its inherent divinity, said
Sri V. Srinivasan, President, All India Sri Sathya Sai Seva
Organisations in his address to the delegates of the conference.
Highlighting on the Unity factor, he stressed upon the importance of
Love and Trust to establish the Brotherhood of Man and Fatherhood of
God. Sai Avatar has come for the transformation of mankind and that
transformation would take place by teaching in various ways and the
totality of this teaching is real education; this education is for life
and not for living; this education is learning to differentiate between
the real and unreal; this education rests on truth and love, not on
transient truth, or on selfish love, but on Truth which was, is and will
be true for all the time and love which is selfless, that will always be
giving and not taking. Bhagawan’s love is so encompassing that He wants
our lives to be His Message and that is real Sai Education, added Mr.
Srinivasan.
Referring to the Bal Vikas programme for
blossoming children initiated by Bhagawan, he said, Sai Education is the
shield against the vagaries and the temptations of the world; Sai
Education has transformed them and now they are the change agents of Sai
who are quietly working to bring about transformation in the family,
country and in the world at large. Welcoming one and all to the Real
Home, to Prasanthi Nilayam, Mr. Srinivasan said India is the blessed
land where Avatar’s have descended and India will continue to be the
ever shining beacon for the redemption of humanity through Sai
Education.
Bhagawan in His Divine Discourse highlighted on
the shrunken society, selfish bend of human mind, education that has
become physical and more outward, the suffering meted out at the poor
all around the world.
Education today has become physical and outer.
There are crores in India who have received this type of education but,
to what extend the society has been benefited? They do think about
themselves and have no time to think of the problems being faced by the
society, said Bhagawan commencing His Divine Discourse. In an apparent
reference to the present plight of the world filled with misery, He said
in spite of having such problems around each country speaks about self
glory, but fails to address the reality. It is difficult draw a
demarcation line between the rich and poor. All are poor. It is rare to
find someone who has harmony in Thought, Word and Deed. The poor are
passing through unbearable suffering and there is no one to care for
them. Love and Compassion are the need of the hour. Those who boast the
feeling of ‘I’ and ‘Mine’ can never be happy. ‘I’ combines with the
‘mine’ feeling to form the Ego.
Here is the summary of His Divine Discourse
(these are not verbatim translations, but the summary of the Divine
Discourse.)
Among the affluent there is no fear of sin and
Love for God.
We must get rid of selfishness and one should work towards achieving
this end.
Spirit of service and love should be the motive
force for the men.
All are children of God; If we put others into
suffering, we are bound to get it back.
We need to develop feeling for Unity in our heart
that would lead to Purity and finally to Divinity.
One cannot be indifferent to the suffering of
others.
Without the five human values all are animals in
human forms. Once he develops human values he will become automatically
compassionate.
Truth cannot be found outside; Truth is very much
within.
Students of Bhagawan’s institutions right from
Primary level would know and understand human values.
From Truth comes Righteousness and from Right
Conduct blossoms Love which in turn brings Peace that finally develops
non-violence.
Even birds have great love among and how is it
that man missed out at this point?
People are after money. They do not want God.
They do not understand that Atma
resides within.
Without knowing one’s true nature one cannot
attain anything.
One needs to sit calm, quiet and enquire within
to know the reality. This is true meditation.
Reading books (apparently referring to a claim by
a student who finished Sai Satcharita) is not enough; one needs to turn
his heart into such teachings to get the real meaning and put the same
in practise.
Name and physical identification are for physical
purposes, but the reality one needs to know essentially is the Truth, I
AM I
When you develop firm faith that God is with you,
you will be able to achieve anything in the world.
Educare is to bring out the innermost sacred
human qualities, from within.
Education is pertaining to external knowledge.
Within thirty years the world will be united,
will be one, with one caste, one religion, one God.
Unity in Diversity has become the dictum to
practice in precept as this maxim finds a place very often in Bhagawan’s
Divine Discourses and thus into the large family of Sai Fraternity. More
than forty musicians from over 20 countries took the centre stage on the
twilight of 20th july in the colourfully decorated Sai Kulwant Hall for
a display of what could be aptly described as a Global Harmony Show. The
Saisymphony Orchestra has been an integral part of Prasanthi Nilayam
during the Birthday and Gurupoornima celebrations for last so many years
and so their turn came yet again on the 20th evening to perform in His
immediate Divine Presence.
Led by conductor Michael Koehler from Germany,
the troupe had members from Macedonia, Albania, Switzerland, U.S.A.,
Japan, India, Lithuania, Russia, The Czec Republic, New Zealand,
Austria, Italy, Columbia, France, Ireland, The Netherlands and Canada
orchestrating various instruments on a single stage to bring a concord
of sounds symbolising global harmony, a United World, as Bhagawan
prophesied just minutes ago to the programme ending His Divine
Discourse.
What
is the end goal of Sathya Sai Education? Learning To Be. To help
develop the whole human being, a balanced development of the physical,
intellectual, emotional and spiritual domains to endow one with an integrated
personality is the first and foremost aim of Sathya Sai Education.
Bhagawan exhorts: Students! Teachers! Patrons of education! You should understand
the true meaning of education. Education does not mean mere acquisition of bookish
knowledge. Can you call all those who know how to read and write educated? Can one
be called educated merely by acquiring degrees? How can you attain the eternal
knowledge if you do not know your true Self? You should make efforts to know your
true identity. All your education will prove futile if you do not know who you
really are. (Dasara 2004)
On the
auspicious Guru Purnima morning on the 18th July 2008, Bhagawan, citing the example
of a student-turned faculty member who has been invited to go over to Hungary for
his thesis and presentation, exhorted the students of Sathya Sai Institutions to
share the knowledge that they have been fortunate to learn in the portals of the
illustrious hallowed institution, at His Divine Lotus Feet. Teachers and students
should not only study and recapitulate, but should be able to impart the knowledge,
said Bhagawan in a different context during the Divine Discourse.
Sathya
Sai Education has its roots in the teachings of Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai Baba who has
established His Empire of Educational Institutions in the year 1969 that has grown
in to a University with unique distinction over the years. Very early in His life,
Sri Sathya Sai Baba declared that His Mission would be to impress upon mankind on
the crucial importance of leading moral lives by the practice of universal human
values: Sathya (Truth); Dharma (Righteousness); Shanthi
(Peace); Prema (Love); Ahimsa (Nonviolence). ‘Education should
bring out human values. “To bring out” means to translate these values into action’.
Ever since, He has remained a constant motivator and guide in the development of
Sathya Sai Education. The most distinguishing feature of this educational system is
its philosophy that helps students to develop good character with equal importance
in fostering the development of skills that will help them to earn a good living. He
says, education is for life and not merely for living. Revolutionary in concept and
comprehensive in scope, Sathya Sai educational principles have become a lifelong
learning and transformation process for children, men, and women in all parts of the
world.
“Education is not for mere living; it is for life, a fuller life, a more meaningful,
and a more worthwhile life. There is no harm if it is also for a gainful employment;
but the educated man must be aware that existence is not all, that gainful
employment is not all. Again education is not for developing the faculty of
argument, criticism, or winning a polemic victory over your opponents or exhibiting
your mastery over language or logic. That study is best, which teaches you to
conquer this cycle of birth and death and that will not be disturbed by the
blessings or blows of fate. That study begins where this study of yours ends.”
Sathya
Sai Educational Programme has become a global phenomenon that has made its strong
presence in many parts of the world and its impact would be known to the world when
the climax would be unfolded, as Bhagawan has taken great pride in calling His
students future leaders. It has been an evolutionary process starting with His
first educational institution in Anantapur in 1968, Bal Vikas Movement in 1969, a
Boys Campus in Brindavan, Bangalore in 1969, Primary and Higher Secondary Schools in
Prasanthi Nilayam in 1970, a Campus in Prasanthi Nilayam for Men in 1978, the
inception of Education in Human Values in the year 1980, Institute of Sathya Sai
Education in 1987 followed by the conception of “Educare” in the mid nineties.
Inaugurating the Anantapur College for Women on 22nd July 1968 Bhagawan said:
"This is a Divine and blessed land whose traditionis based on
spirituality. This college has to be anexample. Motherhood aspect is very
important.The influence of good or bad, which a motherexerts on
her children is far-reaching. Goodmothers are needed to rebuild India
again."
The
network of Institutes of Sathya Sai Education has now expanded to over 20 countries.
It is mainly aimed at “to propagate the ideals of Sathya Sai Education in primary
and secondary schools, colleges and universities.” In their respective geographical
regions, the Institutes provide standardized training of teachers and
teacher-trainers. They also offer Diploma and Advanced Diploma courses, assist in
establishing Sathya Sai Schools, and support the adoption of existing schools.
Yes,
towards ‘Learning To Be’, one of the four pillars of education defined in
the report of the International Commission. In the most inclusive sense, To Be
refers to developing the whole human being, or a balanced development
of the physical, intellectual, emotional and spiritual domains to endow one with an
integrated personality. By combining spiritual education with secular education in
an integral manner, Sathya Sai Education lays the foundation for developing an
integrated personality. Bhagawan has referred to it as the harmonious development of
a sharp intellect endowed with fundamental discrimination; a kind, compassionate
heart with love for all; and competent hands that serve selflessly. Such a
personality is the combination of nobility and ability. Bhagawan says, "Nobility
without ability is useless to society and ability without nobility is dangerous to
it." The most important manifestation of this wholehuman being or
an integrated personality is character, and that is the goal of Sathya Sai
Education. The human values of Love, Truth, Peace, Right Conduct, and Nonviolence
provide the foundation for character, which in turn manifests itself as unity in
thought, word, and deed, in selfless service and love for all. Character alone
confers the ability to exercise objectivity and a sense of personal responsibility
to attain common goals of the society. Information, knowledge, and skills gained
through secular education are important tools and are prerequisites for righteous
action, but these become ineffective when the personality lacks character.
Addressing the students of Sathya Sai University during the Summer Course in 1992
Bhagawan declared: “I want you to be leaders to protect the world. Leaders like
lions-self-reliant, courageous, majestic and just. Lion is the king of animals and I
want you to be king among men”.
The
end of education is character;
The end of knowledge is love;
The end of culture is perfection;
The end of wisdom is freedom.
It could be
an ambition, a dream for mortals, but, for the Immortal One it was His
Sankalpa. His Sankalpa, His Will is bound to be done! And Sathya Sai
Education is the perfect tool in His hands to make it happen
With
Divine Blessings and Approval of Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai Baba, Sai educationists all
over the world are preparing for the Sri Sathya Sai World Education Conference to be
held in Prasanthi Nilayam from 20 to 22 July 2008. The conference theme will be:
“Principles, Authenticity, Accountability and Service to Mankind”. This will be a
unique opportunity for Sai educationists everywhere to contemplate deeply on the
spiritual teachings of Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai Baba which have inspired and guided
the Sri Sathya Sai Education movement throughout the world. The objective of this
conference is to establish a universal understanding of these principles so that
these could be applied authentically in all Sai Education Programmes everywhere.
Organised jointly by the Sri Sathya Sai World Foundation and the All-India Sri
Sathya Sai Organisation, the Sri Sathya Sai World Education Conference will bring
together Sai educationists active in SSEHV, SSE teachers and teacher-trainers,
educators in Sathya Sai Schools and Institutes and leaders of Sathya Sai
Organisations from India and more than 80 overseas countries.
In accordance with Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai Baba’s Guidance and Instructions, 84
national and regional Sri Sathya Sai Pre-World Education Conferences are being held
in countries around the world in preparation for the Sri Sathya Sai World Education
Conference. Of these, 80 Sri Sathya Sai Pre-World Education Conferences had already
taken place by the end of May 2008. There are 73 countries participating in these
Pre-World conferences. This issue carries highlights of Sri Sathya Sai Pre-World
Education Conferences held in different geographic regions. North America
Three national Sri Sathya Sai Pre-World Education Conferences were held in Canada,
the United States and the West Indies. The Pre-Conferences afforded a fresh
opportunity for Sai educators to come together from different regions of the vast
continent and share their experiences and love for Bhagawan that had motivated them
to adopt Bhagawan’s Divine Teachings into a variety of educational programmes over
the past thirty years. United States
Thirty-five Sai educators, Young Adult leaders and senior office bearers from the
United States gathered in Los Angeles on 3 May 2008 for a Sri Sathya Sai Pre-World
Conference convened by Dr. David Gries, the Zone Chairman of the Sri Sathya Sai
Organisation in North America, in preparation for the World Education Conference in
July.
Dr. Michael Goldstein, Chairman of the Sri Sathya Sai World Foundation, discussed
the themes of the July Conference—Spiritual Principles, Authenticity,
Accountability, and Service—and stressed the need for unity. Dr. Narendranath
Reddy, Director of the Sri Sathya Sai World Foundation, also spoke about the need
for unity and extolled Sathya Sai Educare as a way to help people to understand and
practice the five Human Values, the underlying value being Love. Dr. William Harvey
of the Prasanthi Council also added insightful comments. These inspiring talks,
encouraging all to work together in unity, set the tone for the rest of the meeting.
Dr. Ronne Marantz, member of the Education Committee of the Sri Sathya Sai World
Foundation, provided perspective on the evolving Core Syllabus.
Mrs. Berniece Mead, National SSE Coordinator, and Mrs. Bea Flaig, National
Coordinator for SSEHV, reviewed the long and rich history of educational programmes
in the U.S. and facilitated discussions on how to meet challenges facing the
programmes. Mrs. Doris Hampton, the Community SSEHV Coordinator provided a
stimulating example of educational programmes working in cooperation with the
community that had been widely recognised. The last part of the meeting was devoted
to a discussion of creating a U.S. Institute of Sathya Sai Education. Canada
Canada organised its Sri Sathya Sai Pre-World Education Conference in Toronto on 26
April 2008. A total of 138 delegates came from all over Canada to participate in the
conference. The conference began with Dr. V.P. Singh, the Central Co-ordinator for
Canada welcoming the delegates and introducing the concept of Sathya Sai Educare.
Mr. T.R.Pillay, the former Principal of Sathya Sai School in Toronto then gave a
succinct review of the Global Overview of Sathya Sai Education, focusing
specially on the future perspectives, emphasising how all should work in unity to
achieve the highest goals of education espoused by Bhagawan. Dr. David Gries, the
Zonal Chairman, emphasised the importance of suffusing all educational programmes
with Bhagawan’s Love which was the undercurrent of all Human Values. Dr. M.V.
Kanchana, National Education Co-ordinator for Canada, explained the theme of the
conference and introduced the four topics of the World Conference: Principles,
Authenticity, Accountability and Service to Mankind. This highly interactive
conference brought out the unity and love underlying all Sai education programmes
and underscored the close relationship between educational and other activities of
the organisation. The participants finally articulated some questions for
consideration at the World Conference. UK and Continental Europe
Five national Pre-Conferences took place in the UK, Germany, Hungary, Spain and the
Netherlands by the end of April 2008. UK and Ireland
The United Kingdom Sri Sathya Sai Pre-World Education Conference was held on 19
April 2008 at the Sathya Sai School in Leicester - the ‘Midlands’ area of England.
The event brought together 106 participants from the UK Sathya Sai Organisation, the
British Institute of Sathya Sai Education (BISSE) and the Sathya Sai School in
Leicester. The UK National Chairperson of the Sathya Sai Organisation,, Rev.
Rosemary Perry, opened the conference.
After a meditative and inspiring film on Educare, presented by the National Youth
Coordinator, Mathan Arulvel, five key speakers addressed the participants. Mr Ishver
Patel, Central Coordinator for the UK and Ireland highlighted the Regional Education
Consultation held in England in January 2007, the National Sathya Sai Education
Conference held in September 2007, and finally the objectives of the present
Pre-World Conference – all preparing the Sai educationists in the UK and Ireland for
the World Education Conference in July 2008. Mrs. Carole Alderman followed this with
a brief account of BISSE activities and an update of recent changes in its
administrative structure. Dr. Prabodh Mistry, the representative for Sathya Sai
Schools to the UKCC, gave an update and overview of the Sathya Sai School in
Leicester. Mrs. Lakshimi Puvanendran presented a succinct and comprehensive account
of every aspect of SSE in the UK and Mr. Jiten Patel, Head of Training in BISSE,
summarised SSEHV in both the community and in wider society, and described resource
development and training.
This was followed by four workshops on the theme: ‘Principles’, ‘Authenticity’,
‘Accountability’ and ‘Service’. The programme closed with a Human Values song from
one of BISSE’s repertoire and sung in unison: “Happy are they who in friendship,
willingly work together.” Germany
A National Sri Sathya Sai Pre-World Conference was held in Bad Wildungen on 5 April
2008 with the participation of national and regional SSE Coordinators, teachers who
are implementing Human Values in their classes and conducting SSEHV Programmes all
over the country, teacher-trainers of the ESSE Institute and Young Adult
Coordinators – a total of more than 30 participants. The meeting was inaugurated by
the Central Coordinator Petra von Kalinowski, followed by her detailed presentation
of the Global Overview of Sri Sathya Sai Education. Another presentation
laid stress on the “Sathya Sai Schools all over the world” and gave some vivid
examples of their educational programmes.
In different workshops the participants reflected on Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai Baba’s
Divine Teachings which lay the foundation of Sathya Sai Educare. Another session was
devoted to the issue of maintaining authenticity in Sai Educational Programmes and
the accountability of the teacher’s work and how all these could contribute to the
service to mankind which epitomised Bhagawan’s teaching of Love All, Serve All. Spain
Twenty-nine participants from the mainland/Balearic Islands and Canary Islands
joined a Pre-World Education Conference held in Madrid on 19 and 20 April 2008. The
speakers pointed out that Sai Educationists in Spain had been active with
educational programmes for the past thirty years and the Pre-Conference had served
well to unite all these individuals. It was a delightful surprise to many to be
aware of the progress and achievements that had been made in the area of Sathya Sai
Education in different parts of the country and how this had helped in their
individual transformation. Everyone felt that the Pre-World Conference had given a
new momentum in the area of Sai Education. Africa and the Middle East
Six national Pre-World Conferences were held in South Africa, Mauritius, Zambia,
Kenya, Oman, and Kuwait by the end of April 2008. Reports from the early conferences
already held demonstrate how the universality of SSSEHV transcends culture, religion
and ethnicity. South Africa
The South African Sri Sathya Sai Pre-World Education Conference held in Durban on
the 17 February 2008 was attended by 600 delegates. Organised by the Sathya Sai
Institute of South Africa, delegates included the institute faculty members,
principals and teachers of all four Sathya Sai Schools, Sathya Sai Education Council
members, members of the Boards of Management of Sathya Sai Schools and eminent
educationists.
Among the recommendations made were: to encourage more qualified youth to join SSE
Teacher Training Courses; to set up a Teacher Resource Centre to facilitate teacher
training courses in other parts of the country, namely Cape Town, Johannesburg and
the Natal Midlands area. In the area of SSEHV, it was resolved to adopt a State
School and to introduce Bhagawan’s Educare principles into the teaching process; to
train 220 public school teachers this year; and to address the specific needs of
children with learning disabilities.
Mauritius
A Pre-World Conference was held on the 27 April 2008 at Anandam, Mauritius, with 200
participants in attendance. Notable among the participants were senior officers from
the Ministry of Education and Human Resources, the Ministry of Women, Family Welfare
and Child Development, the Mahatma Gandhi Institute, the Queen Elizabeth College,
the Indian Ocean Centre, Islamique Des Mourides, and eminent educationists from the
Indian Ocean Island.
Presentations highlighted the role and function of the Indian Ocean Centre for SSEHV,
the ongoing SSE and SSEHV programmes and the needed refinements in the light of the
draft Sri Sathya Sai World Foundation Guidelines in circulation for Sathya Sai
Schools and Institutes. Zambia
A Pre-World National Education Conference was held at The African Institute of
Sathya Sai Education (TAISSE) in Zambia from 7 to 9 January 2008. In attendance were
30 teachers from the three Sathya Sai Schools in Ndola, TAISSE faculty members, and
20 senior officers of the Sathya Sai Organisation. Speakers included Mr. Victor
Kanu, Mrs. Genoveva Kanu, Sathya Sai School Administrators and senior teachers.
The Pre-World Conference discussed the principles and practices of Sathya Sai
Education. Regular training workshops were suggested for Sathya Sai School teachers
so that they could become conversant with the principles and the philosophy of
Sathya Sai Educare. Oman
The Sultanate of Oman held a Sri Sathya Sai Pre-World National Sai Education
Conference on 28 March 2008 in Muscat. Organised by the Education Wing of the Sri
Sathya Sai Organisation in Oman under the leadership of the National Chairperson Mr.
G. Venkatesh, 82 participants attended the conference including teachers from Middle
East Nursery School, SSE and SSEHV teachers and Sathya Sai Organisation
Office-bearers.
They presented various aspects of Sathya Sai Education, beginning with the Divine
Teachings of Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai Baba which underlie Sathya Sai Educare. The
participants explored the historic development of the Sathya Sai Education
programmes and institutions; Two well-structured group discussions followed these
presentations to prepare the delegates to participate effectively at the World
Education Conference in July. Latin America
Sri Sathya Sai Education has been taken to heart in Latin America. There are
currently 8 Sathya Sai Educational Institutions and 14 Sathya Sai Schools in 11
countries in south and central America. Bolivia
February and March 2008 saw three Sri Sathya Sai Pre-World Conferences organised in
La Paz, Sucre, and Cochabamba by the National President of the Sathya Sai
Organisation in preparation for the Sri Sathya Sai World Education Conference in
July. Luz Marina Genera, member of the ISSE in Colombia facilitated a meeting for 30
participants who discussed the themes of true education, the Sathya Sai Educare,
the role of teachers as exemplars of Human Values, and teaching methods, techniques,
and evaluation. Asia-Pacific (Outside India)
Four national Pre-Conferences were held in Australia, New Zealand, Fiji and
Singapore by the end of April 2008. Australia
A National Sri Sathya Sai Pre-World Conference was organised by the Australian
Institute of Sathya Sai Education in March 2008 in Sydney. Sai educationists
attending the meeting included current staff and students of the Institute of Sathya
Sai Education, Advanced Diploma students, SSE teachers, and professional teachers in
the Sathya Sai School.
The research findings were presented by Advanced Diploma students of the Australian
Institute on the impact of SSEHV on education, health, parenting and youth. The
National Education Coordinator, Mrs. Padma Ayyagari presented a new vision of a
unified, harmonised and consolidated Sathya Sai Education programme for Australia. New Zealand and Fiji
Sri Sathya Sai Organisation in New Zealand held a national Sri Sathya Sai Pre-World
Education Conference in the Mangere community within Auckland on 19 and 20 April
2008. Thirty-eight participants including senior members of the Institute of Sathya
Sai Education NZ, SSEHV Teachers, the Sai School Principal, and Institute of Sathya
Sai Education (ISSE) teachers attended the conference.
The major themes discussed were spiritual principles underlying Sathya Sai Educare;
a comparison of SSEHV and SSE; a critique of current curriculum and practice;
educational standards and quality assurance; coordination between Sai education
functions and other activities of the Sathya Sai Organisation; and priority action
areas in Sathya Sai education.
On 6 April 2008, the Sathya Sai Institute of Human Values in Fiji organised a Sri
Sathya Sai Pre-World Education Conference at the Sathya Sai School, Drasa, Lautoka,
Fiji. Twenty-three participants were in attendance including the Institute staff,
Sathya Sai School teachers, SSE teachers and Office bearers of the Sathya Sai
Organisation of Fiji. Singapore
The Singapore Sri Sathya Sai Organisation organised a Sri Sathya Sai Pre-World
Education Conference on 5 and 6 April 2008. The event was attended by 216
participants including Bal Vikas teachers involved in the SSE activities in
Singapore and teachers from the Sathya Sai School of Singapore.
The two invited keynote speakers, Dr. Art-ong Jumsai and Ms. Lorraine Burrows from
the Sathya Sai School and Institute in Thailand explained the purpose of the World
Education Conference and what was required from the deliberations in each country.
The spiritual principles underlying Sathya Sai Education were explained and the need
for enhancing teacher training and teaching-learning resources were emphasised.
Loraine Burrows, in addition to her talks on the World Conference topics, also
conducted a workshop on lesson planning. Epilogue
Our Lord Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai Baba gave His Guidance to convene Pre-World Sri
Sathya Sai Education Conferences. His Guidance became an Instruction to Sai
Educators all over the World. His Instruction became the Inspiration for the
assemblies of Sai Educators worldwide who met, shared, and communicated in a spirit
of selfless Love and Unity was achieved.
The Sai
Educators are now prepared to effectively participate in the Sri Sathya Sai World
Education Conference and to receive the Divine Message of our beloved Bhagawan.
