For four decades, Dasmesh Punjabi School has stood as a beacon of cultural preservation and academic excellence in British Columbia. Nestled in the heart of Abbotsford, the school has dedicated itself to fostering the Punjabi language, heritage and Sikh faith-based studies alongside the B.C. curriculum.
In celebration of its fourth decade teaching Punjabi language and culture, the Dasmesh Punjabi Educational Association invites the community to join the festivities from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 23 at the Dasmesh Punjabi School campus.
A vision rooted in culture and community
The school's roots reach back to the early 1980s, when a group of highly educated, inspiring individuals in Abbotsford recognized that Punjabi children were slowly losing connection with their language and heritage. Understanding the importance of preserving their linguistic and cultural roots, these visionaries took it upon themselves to create a space where young minds could learn and embrace their identity.
Weekend Punjabi classes were the humble beginnings of what would become a thriving, celebrated institution. As community participation surged, the Dasmesh Punjabi Education Association was formed, leading to evening Punjabi classes in 1983, with generous support from the Khalsa Diwan Society, which provided space at a local Gurdwara.
The birth of Dasmesh Punjabi School
Fuelled by the community's enthusiasm, in 1986 the association founded the Dasmesh Punjabi School – an independent, not-for-profit Sikh faith-based institution that seamlessly integrated the B.C. curriculum with Sikh studies and Punjabi language education. This initiative made Dasmesh Punjabi School one of the first in North America to officially include Punjabi as part of the curriculum, solidifying its place as a pioneer in cultural education.
Since then, the school has nurtured thousands of young minds, instilling a strong sense of identity and pride in their Punjabi roots while shaping generations of students into successful professionals.
READ MORE: Abbotsford students welcome a bright future through language, learning, culture
A legacy of academic and cultural excellence
Today, Dasmesh Punjabi School is home to more than 900 students from Kindergarten to Grade 12, offering a holistic education that blends modern academics with cultural richness. Located on a beautiful campus in the Matsqui area, the school has consistently ranked among the Fraser Valley's top three schools. Its alumni proudly represent the institution as doctors, engineers, lawyers, business leaders and professionals, contributing to society while staying deeply connected to their roots.
The unwavering support of donors, parents, dedicated teachers and staff has been instrumental in the school’s journey. Their collective efforts have ensured that future generations continue to embrace the Punjabi language, heritage and values.
READ MORE: Dasmesh Punjabi School: Excellence in education and cultural heritage
Join us in celebrating 40 years of Punjabi language and culture
To commemorate this historic milestone, all community members, alumni, donors, students, parents and guardians, teachers and staff are invited to a grand celebration on Sunday, Feb. 23, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.!
Together, let’s keep our heritage alive for generations to come.