Dr. Jayakar Ellis, the Founder President of Heart Foundation was kind enough to select Amrita Vidyalayam, Juinagar as one of the schools to spread awareness among students about the current situation of wildlife in our country, and the role of student ambassadors in preserving and conserving Mother Earth. The session was conducted for students of classes 5 to 8. The workshop started with a prayer after which, Principal Brni. Rekha introduced the esteemed speaker and the various activities of the Foundation.
Dr. Jayakar inspired and educated the students in a thrilling and humorous manner by capturing their attention and keeping them glued to the topic. By comparing Mother Earth to one’s own mother, the students were able to introspect about the attitude one should adopt towards Nature, and understand that it should be empathetic and loving. The cycle of destruction of Nature begins with humans when we carelessly discard plastic which finally ends up in the oceans which in turn affects marine life, and rampant deforestation as well as poaching of animals which has lead to the extinction of many species. The destruction of animal habitats will eventually impact human life as well. These thoughts sensitized students about how one can love and care for Nature and extend the same towards animals. Students were also made to realize that the immediate future will consist of humans breathing through oxygen masks if the increasing carbon footprint is not checked.
A brilliant documentary featuring the impact of declining glaciers on polar bears, the green house effect on gorillas, and plastics on marine life was shown, creating awareness among the students about various factors that are systematically destroying the green cover of the earth. The highly engaging question and answer session saw students answering the tricky questions posed by the speaker quite easily. They were also keen to know how they could individually contribute towards nurturing the Earth. A simple solution said it all – ”Offer saplings as birthday gifts”. Students were also informed about the Eco Achievers Olympiad to be held in the coming months, and those desirous of participating were asked to register.
