The Vasundhara Green Club and NSS Unit, in collaboration with Nation Youth for Climate Change, AERO, GBCN, O.C.E.A.N, and Reel Pilot, hosted a Wildlife Week celebration from 2nd to 8th October 2024 in the college campus, to raise awareness on wildlife conservation and sustainable practices to protect biodiversity. The event encompassed multiple activities and competitions that engaged both students and faculty in discussions and experiences centered on wildlife and environmental conservation.
3rd October 2024: A session on “Youths Exploring Digital Solutions in Wildlife Conservation and Climate Action” was conducted by Ms. Vaibhavi Vishwas Naik, an Assistant Professor in Zoology and Environmental Studies, and a Climate Champion of the Young India Fellowship under the National Youth Climate Consortium (NYCC) supported by YuWaah-UNICEF.
The session was aimed at inspiring young people to actively participate in wildlife conservation and climate action through the use of digital tools and technologies. The session touched upon innovative mobile applications designed to raise awareness and educate users about wildlife conservation. Ms. Naik mentioned several apps that allow users to report sightings of endangered species, track wildlife in real-time. The session successfully raised awareness among the participants about the importance of using digital tools for wildlife conservation and climate action. Students were inspired to creatively use technology for biodiversity protection. A total of 74 students attended the session.
4th October 2024: A Nature and Biodiversity Trail was organized on campus, allowing participants to explore the local flora and fauna. The trail offered an opportunity for hands-on learning about various species, their habitats, and the importance of preserving natural ecosystems. Students recorded around 18 species of butterflies, birds and insects. A total of 22 students participated in the natures Trail.
5th October 2024: A Photography Competition with the theme “Low Light Wildlife Photography” was organized for participants to showcase their skills in capturing wildlife in low-light conditions, emphasizing the beauty and challenges of photographing animals in their natural habitats during dawn, dusk, or night. The competition focused on both technical ability and the ecological value of wildlife photography in conservation efforts. The competition received a total of 33 entries.
7th October 2024: The event included the screening of wildlife documentary “A Journey across Planet”, offering insights into various conservation efforts and showcasing the richness of global biodiversity, thereby inspiring students to take an active role in protecting wildlife and conserving natural resources. A total of 36 student attended the documentary screening session.
8th October 2024: A session on “Snake rescue and Awareness” educated the participants about the vital role snakes play in maintaining ecological balance, debunk myths surrounding these misunderstood creatures, and educating participants on safe practices for handling snake encounters. Additionally, the session provided hands-on insights into wildlife rescue efforts, with a particular focus on snakes. The resource person Mr. Charan Dessai, founder and president of SAWE (Study and Awareness of Wildlife and Environment), began by discussing the critical ecological role snakes play in maintaining the balance of nature. He explained that snakes help control pest populations, particularly rodents, which can be harmful to crops and spread diseases. By acting as both predator and prey, snakes contribute to the food chain and overall biodiversity. He also provided insights into the snake species commonly found in Goa, including both venomous and non-venomous varieties, such as the Spectacled Cobra, Russell’s Viper, Indian Rock Python, and Rat Snake. He highlighted the need for people to recognize the difference between these species and avoid unnecessary harm to them. A total of 125 students attended the session.
Expected Outcome of the Activity
Students gained a deeper understanding of wildlife conservation challenges and the role of technology and youth in addressing these issues. The event fostered an appreciation for biodiversity and encouraged active involvement in conservation efforts, including sustainable practices and community-based wildlife rescue initiatives.
