Since its founding four decades ago Dasmesh Punjabi School has worked to provide excellence in education in the Fraser Valley, including academics, cultural preservation and athletics.
From the five-acre campus in Abbotsford's beautiful Matsqui neighbourhood, more than 900 students from Kindergarten to Grade 12 enjoy a holistic approach to education, with Punjabi language, heritage and Sikh faith-based studies taught alongside the B.C. curriculum, in addition to opportunities for success in the arts and athletics.
This spring, for example, expect to see a number of students representing Dasmesh Punjabi School in numerous track and field events – at the 2024 B.C. Track and Field Championships, students demonstrated excellence in a variety of disciplines.
In basketball, the DPS Falcons Grade 9 girls brought home silver in the Zone Championships, representing their school with pride and inspiring their fellow and future students. Other success has come in boys' basketball, girls' volleyball and other sports.
Athletic recognition has also come from DPS students on the international stage.
Grade 12 student Mehtab Singh Rai recently represented Canada at the international Mirnawan 2024 Cup in Malaysia as part of Team Canada’s U17 field hockey team.
"My parents' support and my school’s encouragement have been crucial in my journey," says Mehtab, working hard to achieve his Olympic dreams. "Dasmesh Punjabi School has helped me stay connected to my Sikh identity and Punjabi language, motivating me to achieve beyond my goals while preserving my cultural roots. As Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s teaching reminds us, “Naam Japo, Kirat Karo, Te Vand Chakko” (“Meditate, work hard, and share”), and these values guide me on and off the field.
Celebrating success, looking to the future
Successes like these, made possible by the entire school community, including staff and coaches, students and families, were at the heart of Dasmesh Punjabi School's recent anniversary celebrations. On Feb. 23, a grand celebration kicked off the school's new fundraising goals, students, parents and guardians, teachers and staff gathered to honour the past 40 years and the school's exciting future!
As an independent school, DPS receives little government funding, and none for developing the campus, building and renovating facilities, or equipping and furnishing classrooms. With the financial support of alumni, families and community friends, Dasmesh Punjabi School will continue to grow and thrive, becoming even better for the next generation of students.
To lend your support, email the school at builddps@dasmeshschool.com or for more details, call 604-826-1666.
READ MORE: Dasmesh Punjabi School: Excellence in education and cultural heritage