A two-day workshop at Harihardev Bidyapitha School, Pathara, Odisha on 5th and 6th December, brought together 60 students to delve into the importance of wetlands and their conservation, focusing on the iconic Chilika wetland.
Students along with Ms. Aditi Patial and M.s Dayadra Mandal on a cleanliness drive near the Chilika Wetland
This initiative was part of the activities under the Wetlands Learning Center, which was set up on September 27, 2024, to foster community-driven environmental stewardship.
The workshop began with educating students about the biodiversity of Chilika, including its 729 plant and 314 fish species, as well as the critically important Irrawaddy dolphins. A guided wetland walk enabled hands-on learning as students identified local bird species like the Black-winged Stilt and Brahminy Kite.
Day two tackled the growing menace of solid waste pollution in aquatic ecosystems. Students engaged in a presentation on the impacts of microplastics and were introduced to the “4R Concept”—Reduce, Reuse, Recycle, and Recover. The session culminated in a wetland cleanliness drive, where participants collected three kilograms of waste, later sorted into plastics and paper.
Ms. Tuheina Thakur educating students on the biodiversity of Chilika
To ensure the continuity of these efforts, 11 students were appointed as Wetlands Crusaders, tasked with leading year-long activities and spreading awareness. The school has dedicated a hub for these activities in its E-Library, supporting this youth-led initiative with resources and guidance.
Ms. Dayadra Mandal discusses the role of youth in solid waste management