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Faculty Join ‘Pathways to Nature’ Workshop on Biodiversity Day

DATE May 23, 2025

    To mark the International Day of Biological Diversity, the Department of Ecology, Environment & Remote Sensing, Government of J&K, Jammu, organized a one-day workshop on the theme “Pathways to Nature: Educators’ Workshop” at the ECO-VISTA Environmental Park, Riaka, Jammu. The workshop aimed to promote dialogue on the Department’s internal environmental awareness policies and explore actionable suggestions to strengthen ecological literacy among students.
    The event witnessed enthusiastic engagement from 30 educators, comprising principals, teachers, and academic leaders from diverse educational institutions. MIER College of Education was represented by Mrs. Suman Gupta, Assistant Professor and In-Charge of the Environment Unit, along with Mrs. Jyoti Sharma, Assistant Professor.
    The session began with an insightful orientation led by Ms. Kirti Joshi Bhat, Programme Officer, Department of Ecology, Environment & Remote Sensing, who detailed the key features of the ECO-VISTA Environmental Park. Participants were introduced to its diverse ecological zones, biodiversity conservation efforts, and educational initiatives. Also present were Mr. Chetan Gupta, Mrs. Hency Pandita, and other representatives from DEO-DEERS EIACP-HUB J&K.
    Mr. Rakesh Kumar, Director of the Department, delivered a thought-provoking address on sustainable and community-based strategies to preserve biodiversity. He emphasized realistic, hands-on approaches that promote long-term ecological balance, encouraging all stakeholders to actively engage in ecosystem restoration and protection.
    A lively interactive session ensued, where participants actively brainstormed and contributed practical ideas for effective biodiversity conservation. Mrs. Suman Gupta , In-charge Environment unit, MIER College of Education proposed the development of an annual activity calendar in collaboration with stakeholders, highlighting MIER College's adoption of five villages to implement community-based environmental programs. She further recommended that the government scale up environmental camps and workshops to broaden outreach.
    Key suggestions from participants included: organizing student visits to eco-parks and nature trails to support experiential learning, promoting a ban on single-use plastics within educational institutions, conducting collaborative programs with the Department of Environment and Designing environmental education activities based on students’ interests and expectations.
    The workshop concluded with a shared pledge by educators to implement sustainable, eco-friendly practices in their institutions and local communities. It served as a vital platform to reaffirm the influential role of educators in shaping environmentally responsible citizens.
    Prof. Adit Gupta, Principal of MIER College of Education, appreciated the faculty’s active involvement and reaffirmed the institution’s commitment to promoting environmental awareness and sustainable development.