Hailing from Mumbai, Maharashtra, Dr. Candy D’Cunha graces the academic world as an Associate Professor of English at Andhra Loyola Institute of Engineering and Technology (ALIET) in Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh.
A multifaceted luminary, she wears many hats as an author, poet, editor, and passionate environmental activist. With a rich portfolio of 16 published books, prestigious Harvard certifications, and a pursuit of a D.Litt., Dr. D’Cunha seamlessly intertwines her scholarly pursuits with her fervent advocacy for sustainability.
In an interview with Prof Shiv Sethi, Dr Cuna talks about an event on environment in which she played a pivotal role.
As an environmental activist, what plans and objectives did you have in mind for celebrating World Environment Day at Andhra Loyola Institute of Engineering and Technology?
As an environmental activist, my plans for celebrating World Environment Day at Andhra Loyola Institute of Engineering and Technology were to raise awareness and educate on ecosystem restoration, promote sustainable practices through hands-on activities, and foster community collaboration. By organizing presentations on key environmental issues, tree planting activities, and workshops on recycling and reusing materials, we aimed to inspire long-term environmental advocacy. Collaboration with organizations and NGOs brought diverse perspectives, while inspirational talks motivated participants. Our goal was to equip attendees with the knowledge and skills to drive sustainable development and foster a culture of environmental stewardship.
Who served as the primary source of motivation for organizing all the events?
The management of ALIET, particularly Rev. Fr. Dr. B. Joji Reddy, S.J Secretary and Director of ALIET and Dr. O. Mahesh, our Principal provided invaluable support and motivation for these activities. Their commitment to promoting sustainability and environmental responsibility was instrumental in driving our initiatives. In addition to the MBA students and faculty, ALIET’s recognition as a Green Championship Award winner from the central government highlights the institution’s dedication to environmental stewardship. The encouragement and support from our father Director and Principal were crucial in aligning our goals with the institution’s broader mission of fostering environmental stewardship and community engagement.
What environmental activities were included, and how did they contribute to the event’s goals?
One of the key activities was planting hundreds of seeds and saplings. This effort significantly contributed to reforestation and greening initiatives. Participants learned about the importance of tree planting for carbon sequestration, habitat creation, and soil health. This hands-on activity not only promoted environmental awareness but also provided practical knowledge and skills related to tree planting and environmental conservation. Students of MBA made PPT presentation to the rural community members and inspired them on clean and green earth elements.
How did the involvement of organizations – Monfort Eco club enhance the event?
The involvement of organizations such as the Montfort Eco Club significantly enriched the event by incorporating diverse perspectives and specialized expertise. Their contributions provided valuable insights into innovative environmental solutions and effective community engagement strategies. This breadth of knowledge broadened the event’s scope and emphasized the importance of collaborative action in addressing environmental challenges.
The presence of these organizations fostered a dynamic and engaging atmosphere, encouraging meaningful discussions and exchanges among participants. Additionally, their involvement attracted greater media attention and participant interest, thereby amplifying the event’s impact and reach. Overall, the collaborative efforts demonstrated the power of unified action in advancing sustainability goals, leaving a lasting impression on attendees and reinforcing the necessity of collective environmental stewardship.
What were some of the key learning outcomes for participants?
Participants gained a deeper understanding of several environmental issues, such as the impact of pesticides, sustainable living, and land restoration. They developed practical skills in organic farming and tree planting, learned techniques for sustainable living and recycling, and experienced the benefits of community collaboration. The event inspired participants to make long-term commitments to environmental sustainability and encouraged ongoing involvement in environmental activities and advocacy.
How did the hands-on workshops contribute to the event’s overall objectives?
The hands-on workshops were instrumental in achieving the event’s objectives by providing practical skills and fostering creativity and resourcefulness. For instance, the envelope-making workshop taught participants how to repurpose old paper, promoting the concept of upcycling and creative reuse of materials. Similarly, the cloth bag-making workshop encouraged participants to reduce plastic waste by creating reusable bags from old clothes. These activities empowered MBS student of ALIET along with the rural community members with tangible skills and a mindset of environmental responsibility, enhancing their long-term commitment to sustainability.
What message do you hope participants took away from the World Environment Day celebration?
We hope participants left with a renewed sense of commitment to environmental sustainability and a deeper understanding of the various issues discussed. The event aimed to inspire individuals to adopt sustainable practices in their daily lives, engage in community collaboration, and support environmental advocacy. By combining theoretical knowledge with practical application, we believe the celebration provided participants with the tools and motivation to contribute positively to the environment and drive sustainable development in their communities.
