Mangaluru, Jan 22, 2024: Nitte (Deemed to be University) reverberated with the spirit of environmental action on January 19th, 2024, as it hosted the Nitte Climate Action Program (NCAP) in collaboration with Dr. Mundkur Ramanna Shetty Memorial English Medium School, the Sustainable Development Goals Cell (SDG), and the Institution Innovation Council (IIC). The air crackled with excitement as over 200 students from 15 schools across Dakshina Kannada and Udupi districts converged at the university auditorium, Paneer Campus.
Vice-Chancellor Prof. Dr. M. S. Moodithaya launched the program, his inaugural speech stressed the imperative of fostering environmental awareness among students, emphasizing, "The university is dedicated to nurturing an eco-friendly environment and incubating green initiatives. NCAP embodies this commitment." He urged the youth to prioritize environmental protection, stating, "Actions speak louder than words. We must implement environment-friendly academic curriculums to equip students with knowledge about environmental protection and potential threats." Prof. Moodithaya’s words echoed against the backdrop of unprecedented natural calamities, serving as a stark reminder of humanity’s impact on the planet.
Prof. Dr. G. Srinikethan, President of IIC, further fueled the spirit of action by encouraging students to actively engage in programs like NCAP. He highlighted the importance of competitions like poster presentations and science model exhibitions in igniting young minds’ interest in environmental science. His message encouraged students to seize these opportunities and delve deeper into environmental challenges and solutions.
Prof. Dr. Smita Hegde, Chief Officer of SDG Cell, welcomed the participants, while Mrs. Shreelatha Rao, Principal of Dr. Mundkur Ramanna Shetty Memorial English Medium School, expressed gratitude to all present. The atmosphere thrummed with the enthusiasm of young minds eager to engage and learn.
The day unfolded with vibrant displays of student creativity. Posters adorned the walls, each a vivid canvas depicting themes like climate change, water management, soil conservation, green practices, public health, and smart city development. Additionally, students showcased their ingenuity through innovative science models, bringing their ideas to life.
NCAP culminated in a valedictory ceremony with Prof. Dr. Harsha Halahalli, Registrar of Nitte University, as the distinguished chief guest. The air crackled with anticipation as Dr. Halahalli awarded prizes to the competition winners, applauding their commitment and ingenuity. Dr. Mundkur Ramanna Shetty Memorial English Medium School won the overall championship.
NCAP transcended the boundaries of mere competition, nurturing a spirit of environmental responsibility among young minds. The program resonated with the urgency of action, equipping students with knowledge, tools, and the inspiration to create a more sustainable future. As the participants dispersed, the campus carried a renewed sense of optimism, a testament to the enduring power of education and action in tackling the critical challenges of climate change.