Tag: Environmental Awareness

EduConnect

Elocution Competition on World Environment Day: An Opportunity for Goa’s Final-Year Students to Raise Their Voices Against Plastic Pollution

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In honor of World Environment Day 2025, the Goa Chamber of Commerce & Industry (GCCI), in collaboration with the Institution of Engineers (India), is hosting an Elocution Competition that challenges the next generation of leaders to tackle one of the world’s most pressing environmental issues — Plastic Pollution. The competition is set to take place on Wednesday, June 4, 2025, at the Surendrababu Timblo Convention Hall, Panjim, and promises to be an exciting platform for final-year students from all colleges across Goa to showcase their oratory skills and raise awareness about environmental issues.

Theme: #BeatPlasticPollution: Ending Global Pollution

The theme for this year’s competition, #BeatPlasticPollution: Ending Global Pollution, reflects the urgent need to address the overwhelming presence of plastic in our environment. Plastic pollution has reached alarming levels globally, causing devastating harm to wildlife, ecosystems, and even human health. The competition invites students to use their voices as powerful tools to speak up against plastic pollution and offer innovative solutions for a cleaner, greener future.

The preliminary round of the competition will begin at 10:00 AM, where participants will present their speeches based on the theme. Finalists will be selected based on the content, delivery, and impact of their presentations, and will move on to the Valedictory Function later in the day.

Keynote Speaker and Special Guests

The event will feature an esteemed lineup of speakers, with Padma Shri Dr. Sharad Kale, a Former Scientist at the Bhabha Atomic Research Centre and Special Advisor to the Chief Minister of Goa, delivering the keynote address. Dr. Kale’s vast expertise in scientific research and environmental conservation will inspire students to think critically about the impact of pollution and the role of technology and innovation in solving these challenges.

The event will be presided over by Mr. Shrinivas Dempo, President of GCCI, and Mr. Anwar Khan from the Institution of Engineers (India) will also grace the occasion as the Guest of Honour.

Attractive Prizes and Recognition

The winners of the Elocution Competition will be rewarded with attractive prizes, providing a great incentive for students to engage deeply with the theme and present well-researched and thought-provoking speeches. This competition not only provides a platform for students to raise awareness about environmental issues but also offers recognition for their efforts and dedication towards global causes.

How to Register

The competition is open to all final-year students from colleges across Goa. If you’re passionate about environmental issues and want to make your voice heard, here’s how you can participate:

  • Email Registration: Send your nomination to events@goachamber.org with the following details:
    • Name
    • College
    • Contact Information
    • Course
  • WhatsApp Registration: You can also register via WhatsApp by sending your details to 9764161205.

Important Details

  • Date: Wednesday, June 4, 2025
  • Preliminary Round: 10:00 AM at the Surendrababu Timblo Convention Hall, Panjim
  • Valedictory Function: 4:00 PM, with Padma Shri Dr. Sharad Kale as the Keynote Speaker

Why Participate?

This Elocution Competition offers more than just a chance to win prizes. It’s an opportunity for students to be part of a global movement to combat plastic pollution and promote environmental awareness. By participating, students can:

  • Develop public speaking and presentation skills
  • Contribute to raising awareness about a critical global issue
  • Gain exposure to esteemed professionals in the fields of science, education, and business
  • Join a community of like-minded individuals dedicated to protecting the environment

This competition is an invaluable opportunity for young minds to influence their peers, share innovative solutions, and make a lasting impact on society.

A Call to Action for Goa’s Future Leaders

The GCCI and Institution of Engineers (India) invite all final-year students to participate in this important event, and we hope to see many enthusiastic voices speaking out against plastic pollution.

Join us in this vital conversation, where your ideas and words could inspire action and spark the change our planet desperately needs. Together, let’s #BeatPlasticPollution and work towards a cleaner, healthier, and more sustainable world for future generations.

For further inquiries or more information, please contact Sanjay Amonkar, Director General, GCCI, via email at events@goachamber.org or reach out via WhatsApp at 9764161205.

Human Interest

NSS Students Join Vedanta Sesa Goa in Promoting Environmental Sustainability

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As part of its ongoing #IronWill4GreenerPlanet campaign, Vedanta Sesa Goa organized an educational visit to the Sanquelim Reclaimed Mines (SRM) for students of the National Service Scheme (NSS) from Government College of Arts, Science and Commerce (GCASC), Khandola, along with employees of the company. This visit aimed to promote environmental awareness and sustainable practices & provided a valuable learning experience for all participants.

During the visit, the group explored the expanse of the SRM and discovered how an erstwhile while mine cluster has been sustainably reclaimed and converted into a verdant & lush ‘green-scape’ supporting endemic flora & fauna. The SRM today comprises the ‘Nakshatra Van’, a medicinal garden that combines the beauty of nature with the healing power of plants, and the ‘Charak Vatika’, another garden focused on traditional medicinal plants. The visiting group also familiarised themselves with the ‘Pisciculture Pond’, which promotes water conservation and sustainable fish farming, demonstrating Vedanta Sesa Goa’s commitment to eco-friendly agricultural practices. The students were particularly impressed by the ‘Bamboo Pavilion’, an eco-friendly structure built using sustainable materials, which highlights the company’s innovative approach to creating green, sustainable spaces.

The students were introduced to the Sesa Football Academy and Sesa Technical School, both established on the reclaimed land utilising the one time workshop and other built up area at the erstwhile mine cluster. As part of this initiative, the NSS students from GCASC have volunteered to become #SesaGreenWarriors, and will play an active role in spreading awareness about eco-conscious behaviors and sustainable practices within their communities around Goa.
The SRM was developed by Sesa Goa in the late 90s when no regulatory or statutory requirements existed for mine closure, today the SRM has emerged as a mode mine closure project having earned accolades at national & international level. Recently, Shri G Kishan Reddy, Hon’ble Minister for Coal & Mines, Govt of India, had visited the SRM and praised the effort having gone into the project, terming it as a role model for all mining companies.

Dr. Sapna, NSS In-Charge at GCASC, shared, “The visit to the Sanquelim Reclaimed Mines was an eye-opening experience for our students. It demonstrated how industry can contribute to environmental conservation and biodiversity restoration. By empowering our NSS students as #SesaGreenWarriors, we are equipping them with the knowledge and passion to drive positive change in their communities and inspire others to adopt sustainable practices.”

Mr Rajesh Kumar, Head ESG, Vedanta Sesa Goa, said, “The #IronWill4GreenerPlanet campaign is about more than just corporate responsibility; it’s about empowering the community to actively engage in the protection of our environment. By partnering with the GCASC NSS students and involving them in this transformative experience, we’re creating future leaders who will champion sustainability. The Sanquelim Reclaimed Mines is a testament to how industry and nature can work in harmony, and through initiatives like these, we reaffirm our commitment to environmental stewardship.”

Through such initiatives, Vedanta Sesa Goa continues to reinforce its commitment to sustainability and environmental conservation. The company’s efforts are part of a larger vision to contribute to Swayampurna Goa and #ViksitBharat, ensuring ecologically sustainable businesses are also economically viable. Vedanta Sesa Goa’s commitment to innovative mining practices, renewable energy, and community engagement highlights the company’s role in driving a greener future for Goa, India, and the world.

Social

Students at Amona, Bicholim Join Vedanta Sesa Goa’ Initiative for a ‘Greener’ Planet

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Aimed at inculcating sustainable and environment friendly habits & In a bid to inspire the next generation of environmental leaders, Vedanta Sesa Goa has launched its month-long #IronWill4GreenerPlanet campaign. The initiative will be pursued through awareness sessions about renewable energy, environmental sustainability, and eco-friendly practices. The campaign kicked off with interactive awareness sessions at Amona High School and Ideal High School, reaching over 270 students, helping them understand the importance of a sustainable future.

The inaugural sessions at Amona High School and Ideal High School, Piligao, reaching over 270 students, engaged students with interactive discussions on the importance of renewable energy, the role of solar and wind power in a sustainable future, and simple, actionable ways to reduce their carbon footprint. Students showed keen interest in understanding how sustainable behaviors—such as energy conservation, waste reduction, and eco-friendly transportation—can make a big difference. These students are now poised to act as #GreenWarriors, spreading the message of sustainability in their communities.

The #IronWill4GreenerPlanet campaign is aligned with the objectives of the government initiatives like Swayampurna Goa and Viksit Bharat, which focus on creating sustainable and self-reliant communities. Launched to coincide with the global observance of Earth Day 2025, the initiative will also witness college students partnering to spread the message of greater absorption of RE & EVs as also focus on encouraging communities to reduce plastic usage as well as usage of fossil fuels.By engaging students in schools and colleges, Vedanta Sesa Goa is aiming to bring to fore the innate abilities & potential of the youth in leading transformational changes.

Navin Jaju, CEO of Vedanta Sesa Goa, said, “At Sesa Goa, we are deeply committed to reducing our carbon footprint and driving sustainability across every aspect of our operations. From our Waste Heat Recovery Power Plant, which is 100% powered by sustainable energy, to our efforts in reducing emissions and promoting energy efficiency, we are taking decisive steps toward achieving ‘net zero’ by 2050. The #IronWill4GreenerPlanet campaign reflects our determination to lead by example and demonstrate that collective action, fueled by iron will, can drive meaningful environmental change. I encourage everyone to play their part in making small, impactful actions that together can create a brighter, greener future for generations to come.”

Ms. Sadhna, Headmistress Ideal Highschool said, “We are thankful to Vedanta Sesa Goa for conducting such an insightful and engaging awareness session with our students. The session on renewable energy and sustainable living has opened up new perspectives for our students on the importance of protecting our environment. It has not only educated them about the urgent need for adopting clean energy solutions but also inspired them to take responsibility for the planet’s future and lead by example in their communities.”

Vedanta Sesa Goa’s commitment to sustainability goes beyond education and awareness. The company is integrating sustainable practices across all aspects of its operations, from utilizing sustainable energy solutions in its daily operations to fostering eco-consciousness within local communities, Vedanta Sesa Goa is building the foundation for a more sustainable future. Through initiatives like #IronWill4GreenerPlanet, the company is not only contributing to a greener Goa and India but is also driving global progress toward a more sustainable and resilient planet. Vedanta Sesa Goa remains committed to Transforming Planet, ensuring that every step taken today leads to a cleaner, brighter tomorrow.

EduConnect

Government College of Arts, Science and Commerce Hosts Successful Bird Bath Competition

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In a bid to promote environmental awareness and encourage students to contribute towards bird conservation, the Nature Club Committee of Government College of Arts, Science and Commerce, Sankhali organized a Bird Bath Competition recently. The event, held in the GIS Lab, saw nine students showcase their innovative and eco-friendly bird bath models.

Promoting Sustainability and Bird Conservation

The competition aimed to inspire students to think creatively about sustainable bird bath designs that can contribute to bird conservation. The event was coordinated by Dr. Arati Panshekar, who emphasized the importance of environmental awareness and sustainability in today’s world.

Innovative Designs Wow Judges

The entries were judged based on creativity, functionality, and sustainability. The judges were impressed by the innovative designs, which demonstrated a clear understanding of the importance of bird conservation and sustainability.

And the Winners Are…

Kumari Onishka Pereira secured the first place with her outstanding design, followed by Kumari Sanika Ghadshi who won the second place and Kumari Samiksha Kanekar who won the third position. The winners were awarded prizes and certificates, and their designs were showcased as examples of sustainable and eco-friendly bird bath designs.

Empowering Students to Make a Difference

The Bird Bath Competition is just one example of the college’s commitment to promoting environmental awareness and sustainability. By empowering students to think creatively about sustainable designs, the college is inspiring the next generation of leaders to make a positive impact on the environment.