International Day of Forests 2024 is “Forests and Innovation: New Solutions for a Better World.” In this connection, the Eco Club and Department of Botany at SCHVPMR GDC Ganapavaram observed the International Day of Forests 2024 by conducting an Online Student Interaction session with GDC (W) Khammam. This activity was conducted as part of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the two parties. The program commenced with invitations extended to Dr. P. Nirmala Kumari, Principal of SCHVPMR GDC Ganapavaram, Dr. G. Padmavathi, Principal of GDC (W) Khammam, Telangana, as well as other teaching staff members and students from both colleges.
Opening remarks were delivered by Dr. P. Nirmala Kumari, who highlighted the severe effects of deforestation observed by human communities during the recent COVID pandemic and emphasized the importance of conserving forests. This was followed by remarks from Dr. G. Padmavathi, who underscored the importance of fresh air for human existence, emphasizing that fresh air is derived from plants, particularly forests. She also emphasized that afforestation involves more than just planting trees; it entails caring for their growth.
During the online session, students from both colleges alternately presented their views. A collaborative approach was adopted to raise awareness among students about the significance of the day, allowing them to assess their communication skills and body language in an online setting. Participating students included V. Baby Sirisha, K. Devika, M. Elisha, S. Sushmitha from II BSc BZC at SCHVPMR GDC Ganapavaram, and M. Ankitha (II MPCs), K. Keerthana (III BZCS), T. Kalyami (III BZCS), P. Gowthami (III BZC), R. Nandini (III BZCS). Each student presented PowerPoint presentations on various topics:
- Keerthana on Damaged Ecosystems
- Sirisha and Devika on the Importance of Observing International Day of Forests
- Kalyani on Biodiversity Loss
- Sushmitha on Social Forestry
- Nandhini on Climate Change
- Elisha on Deforestation and Forest Cover Status
- Gowthami on Slash and Burn Techniques
Bhavani, an alumna of GDC (W) Khamamm, also participated in the program, offering her perspective on plants and their microbiomes. She stressed the importance of each plant as a unique being on Earth, interacting with other living organisms for mutual survival. The program concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Smt. Potla Krishnaveni, Assistant Professor of Botany at GDC(W) Khammam, followed by audio feedback from students. In total, 40 students participated from both colleges.
