Gargaon: The ECO Club of Gargaon College held a workshop on vermicomposting, solid waste management, and rainwater harvesting, fostering environmental awareness among students. Supported by the Ministry of Environment, the event featured expert sessions and practical training, aimed at cultivating sustainable habits and ecological responsibility.
The ECO Club of Gargaon College conducted a one-day workshop on ‘Vermicomposting, Solid Waste Management & Rainwater Harvesting’ on a date recently recognised for its environmental focus. This initiative was part of a collaborative effort with the NSS Unit and the Department of Economics at the college. It received support from the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Government of India, and was executed under the auspices of the Assam Science, Technology, and Environment Council, aligning with the ongoing Environment Education Programme.
The workshop commenced with the ceremonial lighting of lamps and a welcoming address by Dr. Sabyasachi Mahanta, Principal of Gargaon College. In his speech, Dr. Mahanta underlined the urgent requirement for environmental protection in light of the persistent indicators of climate change. He highlighted the significance of educating the public about effective solid waste management, noting its essential role in maintaining cleanliness and ecological balance. He provided various examples to illustrate the dangers posed by public indifference towards environmental health, advocating for the adoption of sustainable habits.
Dr. Rimjim Borah, who serves as the Coordinator of the Eco Club and Programme Officer of the NSS Unit, took on the role of moderator for the affair. She presented an overview of the Environmental Education Programme and asserted the transformative potential of Eco Clubs in educational institutions. This, she stated, is vital in nurturing environmental consciousness and promoting sustainable behaviours among students. Dr. Borah also referenced various activities orchestrated by Eco Clubs, such as tree plantation drives and waste management initiatives, showcasing their importance in cultivating environmentally responsible citizens.
The workshop featured prominent resource persons who imparted valuable training on the respective topics. Amrit Kr Saikia, the Assistant Director of Agriculture in Sivasagar District, conducted a detailed session on vermicomposting. He elucidated the procedures, necessary materials, and advantages of this practice, particularly in terms of waste reduction and organic fertiliser production.
In addition, Dr. Pakiza Begum, Assistant Professor in the Department of Chemistry, provided insights into solid waste management. Her session encompassed the different categories of waste, underscoring the pivotal role educational institutions play in managing waste and addressing its environmental impacts.
Dr. Surajit Saikia, Coordinator of IQAC, delivered information on rainwater harvesting, discussing various systems like rooftop and surface runoff harvesting. He emphasised the importance of such systems in conserving water and sustaining environmental balance, including practical applications demonstrated through audiovisual aids.
The hands-on training segment equipped participants with practical experience in constructing vermicomposting bins and managing earthworms across seasonal variations. NSS volunteers facilitated practical sessions on waste segregation and strategies for converting waste into valuable resources.
The workshop saw participation from approximately 65 students representing ten schools, in addition to 14 Teachers-in-Charge, 30 NSS volunteers, and the entire academic staff of Gargaon College. Engage sessions enabled participants to share their perspectives and connect with the resource persons.
At the conclusion, certificates were presented by Dr. Sabyasachi Mahanta, alongside Prof. Diganta Konwar, Vice Principal, and Amrit Saikia, formally recognising the attendees’ involvement. Dr. Rimjim Borah delivered a vote of thanks, rounding off an event aimed at fostering environmental awareness and sustainable practices among the youth.
Source: Noah Wire Services
