Akal Academy continues its mission to establish Sikh educational institutions around the globe.
Sikh Diaspora pledges overwhelming support for Guru ki Kashi at 4th annual Banquet and Educational Seminar
100 years ago, it was in this same land, in a small but determined Sikh Diaspora that Sant Teja Singh started his mission to ensure quality religious and academic education for future Sikh generations.He was also the founder of the Khalsa Diwan Societies in Vancouver and Stockton, USA. It was through his eyes that we first conceived the idea of international schools.
At the 4th annual Akal Academy Banquet and Educational Seminar, which took place last weekend, the community pledged its overwhelming support for the next chapter of a dream envisioned by Sant Teja Singh so long ago.
Sikh Diaspora pledges overwhelming support for Guru ki Kashi at 4th annual Banquet and Educational Seminar
The fundraiser held at the Grand Taj Banquet Hall was in support of the Akal University, Guru ki Kashi, which is currently under construction at Sri Damdama Sahib, Talwandi Sabo in Punjab. Sikhs from various organisations and across BC gathered in support of this noble project, which is being headed by The Kalgidhar Trust, Baru Sahib.
British Columbia Premier Christy Clark praised the work of the Akal Academy and their contribution to education. Surrey Mayor Dianne Watts sent her regards via video message for the excellent academic initiative undertaken by The Kalgidhar Trust. The Kalgidhar Trust President Baba Iqbal Singh (Former Director Agriculture, Himachal Pardesh) addressed the gathering and told of the 129 schools, Eternal University, which are educating over 60,000 children and strengthening the future of the Sikh nation. He also explained about the upcoming Akal University, which is under construction and its first phase is scheduled to open in July 2014; an amazing accomplishment of the worldwide Sikh community.
Sikh Diaspora pledges overwhelming support for Guru ki Kashi at 4th annual Banquet and Educational Seminar
International Scientist, Former Vice-Chancellor and Chairman, Akal Academies Dr. Khem Singh gave a detailed outline of academic and religious education projects currently underway around the globe.
News reporter Professor Gurvinder Singh Dhaliwal also addressed the gathering and focused on the contributions of Sant Teja Singh towards the establishment of Sikh communities across North America. “Instead of building new Gurdwaras, the time has come for Sikh organizations to build Sikh educational institutions,” said Professor Dhaliwal.
Other accomplished community leaders, who addressed the event included Kwantlen Polytechnic University Chancellor Arvinder Singh Babbar, Vancouver Police Officer Constable Kal Singh Dosanjh, Former Member of Parliament Sukh Dhaliwal, Avtar Singh Gill; and Bhai Harpaul Singh, Baru Sahib.
In addition to classical music presentations and Gatka demonstrations by Gurmat Centre and Akal Academy Surrey students, Akal Academy also honored Sevadaars, community leaders and role models from the local community for their contributions.
Sikh Diaspora pledges overwhelming support for Guru ki Kashi at 4th annual Banquet and Educational Seminar
Master of ceremonies for the evening Dr. Pargat Singh Bhurji and Amandeep Kaur extended appreciation towards the esteemed guests, the attendees and all those, who raised and donated money towards the noble cause. Akal Academy of Surrey would like to thank all of the families, sponsors, and Sevadaars, who made the event a great success in support of Akal University, Guru ki Kashi.