"Humans, not places, make memories," Ama Ata Aidoo once said.

However, I must disagree with this quote.  A place, in my opinion, can also catalyze the creation of beautiful memories. As you are well aware, I write from personal experience, as Navodaya was that catalyst for all of us.

Our experiences at a Navodaya school have been truly one-of-a-kind. It's where I met the most incredible people, formed the sweetest bonds, and met my lovely wife. It is where I pushed myself outside of my comfort zone and received a world-class education. It is the place that has moulded me into the person I am today. Initially, I thought this experience meant the most to me, but in 2005, I realized that was not the case. It was the year we hosted the first-ever UAE JNV Pathanamthitta, Kerala  Alumni Meet, at my house in Abu Dhabi, UAE. We've hosted an annual JNV alumni get-together every year since then, growing our family one day at a time. In 2015, a few alumni from other districts in Kerala expressed their interest in joining us, and in 2017, a few alumni from outside Kerala also expressed their interest, indicating that our Navodayan family could expand across all states in India.

Our annual gathering at Al Rahba Farm, Abu Dhabi in 2018 was extra special because it was attended by Navodayan alumni from most states and districts in India, from Kerela to Kashmir! It brings me great happiness and contentment to see how far the JNV Alumni Association has progressed from a few of my friends and their families to a full-fledged association of alumni from Navodayan’s across the country!  

Since 2018, we have effectively hosted 4 All Indian Navodayans meet in the UAE with great vibrancy and success.

I have been honored to walk alongside all of you as a friend, guide, and mentor throughout the years, and I am dedicated to continuing in this role in the future. The Navodayan spirit undeniably runs deep within each of us, and the memories of our past are deeply rooted in our hearts. Exciting opportunities await the JNV alumni in the UAE.

As the most senior Navodaya alumni in the UAE, I am thrilled to share that I have connected with hundreds of alumni from India and around the world.

I had the privilege of representing UAE Navodayans and Global Navodayans at the Hyderabad Region Alumni Meet conducted by Navodaya Vidyalaya Samiti. I had a fruitful discussion with the honourable Commissioner NVS and  other officials of NVS on various issues related to Navodaya and Navodayans. Additionally, I was invited to speak on behalf of UAE/Global  Navodayans at the US alumni meet. I am truly grateful to have the strength to manage my Navodayan passion alongside my work schedules and other commitments.

"Let's hold on to this Navodaya love, care, and affection forever."

Looking forward to our gathering on 18th February, 2024! 

Wishing the very best to all my fellow alumni!

Ciju Kurian

JNV Pathanamthitta, Kerala (1986-1993)