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 & Stockton ,USA. It was through his eyes that we first conceived the idea of international schools. At the 4th annual Akal Academy Banquet & 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.
The fundraiser held at the Grand Taj Banquet Hall was in support of the Akal University (GURU KI KASHI) which is currently under construction Sri Damda Sahib, Talwandi Sabo. Sikhs from various organisations & across BC gathered in support of this 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 Akal Academy. The Kalgidhar Trust President Baba Iqbal Singh (Former Director Agri. Himachal Pardes ) 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 New Akal University which is under construction & its first phase is scheduled to open in July 2014; an amazing accomplishment of the world wide Sikh community.
Minister of Advanced Education, Amrik Virk also sent in his regards.
International Scientist, Former Vice Chancellor and Chairman Akal Academies Dr. Khem Singh gave a full outline of academic and religious education projects currently under way around the globe.
News reporter Professor Gurvinder Singh Dhaliwal also addressed the gathering and focused on the contributions of Sant Teja Singh to the establishment of Sikh communities across North America. “Instead of building new Gurdwaras, the time has come 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 Harpal 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.
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 auspicious 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.
