05 - 06 - 07 December 2024 - HITEX EXHIBITION CENTRE, HYDERABAD

Championing Sustainability: A Closer Look at Modern School's Environmental Initiatives

  • 25 Jun 2024

Dr.Vijay Datta, Principal, Modern School, Barakhamba Road, New Delhi

 

Dr. Vijay Datta stands as a distinguished leader in the field of education, bringing nearly three decades of transformative experience in the public school sector. Currently serving as Principal of Modern School, Barakhamba Road, New Delhi, for over seven years, Dr. Datta has been instrumental in pioneering innovative educational practices. His expertise extends to research in Modern trends in Education, with a focus on Life Skills and Emotional Intelligence, concepts he has championed nationally.

 

Dr. Datta's exceptional contributions have earned him prestigious accolades including the President's National Award and recognition as 'Principal of the Year' by the Indo British Business Forum, London. Beyond his academic achievements, Dr. Datta is deeply committed to fostering a holistic learning environment where students thrive academically and socially. His passion for sports, advocacy for humanitarian causes, and visionary leadership make him a respected figure in both education and community development.

 

Dr. Vijay Datta shares insights into his educational philosophy, innovative initiatives at Modern School, and his vision for the future of education in India.

 

Q) Would you be available to answer a few questions related to this topic? Your insights would be incredibly valuable.

 

Yes, we would be delighted to answer any questions related to sustainability and reducing our carbon footprint. Our insights are based on extensive involvement with various environmental initiatives and educational programs at our school, aimed at fostering a sustainable and eco-conscious community.

 

Q) How does your school integrate education on sustainability, and global warming into the student’s curriculum? Or do you conduct any special projects or competitions for the students?

 

Our school integrates education on sustainability and global warming into the curriculum through various projects, events, and initiatives. For instance, we have incorporated activities such as biodiversity surveys and mapping, symposiums on green technology, and hands-on projects like maintaining a herbal and kitchen garden.

Additionally, students participate in state-level science exhibitions and various competitions that focus on environmental themes, such as the "Climate Science Olympiad," encouraging critical thinking and active participation in sustainability efforts.

 

Topics on sustainability and global warming are integrated in social science curriculum specially geography and economics at the secondary and senior secondary levels. These topics are discussed in the class room and also assessments are conducted on topics like saving electricity, using alternative sources of energy, saving water and mineral resources etc. Project work related to the topic is also done.

 

Q) Does your school conduct any additional programs or events to teach students about sustainability, and global warming?

 

Modern School was awarded the first position in the ‘Green School Award’ organized by the Government of NCT of Delhi.

 

On the occasion of the World Environment Day, Modern School was declared the overall winner amongst 50 schools and colleges from Delhi NCR. The Harit Umang Olympiad is organised by Panasonic India in collaboration with the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Digital India and Bureau of Energy Efficiency is a year-long school awareness program.

 

Beyond the regular curriculum, our school conducts several programs and events to educate students about sustainability and global warming. These include intra-school competitions like poster-making, slogan-writing, and debates on environmental issues, as well as webinars with experts in the field. Furthermore, we organize clean-up drives, tree-planting initiatives in collaboration with local organizations, and awareness campaigns that highlight the importance of reducing plastic use and conserving natural resources. The Visual art department of the school often engages students in art work on themes like save the natural resources, reduce carbon emission. For example, the students of the robotics department designed an eco-friendly bicycle

 

Q) What steps has your school taken to reduce its own carbon footprint and environmental impact? (Such as recycling programs, Energy-efficient lighting, Water conservation measures, Use of renewable energy, etc.).

 

If not, do you plan on taking any new initiatives in the future to reduce your carbon footprint?

 

Our school has implemented a variety of measures to reduce its carbon footprint and environmental impact, including:

 

  • Recycling Programs: Establishing a paper recycling plant and implementing a colour-coded dustbin system for efficient waste segregation and recycling.
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  • Energy-efficient Lighting: Using LED lighting and smart appliances to minimize energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions.
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  • Water Conservation Measures: Implementing an operational rainwater harvesting system and utilizing water-saving initiatives like earthen pots for plant hydration during dry spells.
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  • Renewable Energy: Installing solar panels to harness green energy and reduce reliance on non-renewable resources.
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  • Plastic-free Initiatives: Promoting a plastic-free campus by educating students about the harms of single-use plastics and encouraging the use of reusable alternatives.
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  • Vermicomposting: Vermicomposting pits have been set up in the school and are maintained by the club. The students learn about organic decomposition, the soil food web and ecological sustainability.
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  • Vertical Gardens: This unique style of gardening has been undertaken reducing the use of water apart from having space saving benefits.

 

We are continually seeking new initiatives to further reduce our carbon footprint, with plans to expand our green technologies and sustainability programs.

 

Q) How do you engage parents and the community in your school's sustainability efforts?

 

Our school actively engages parents and the community in our sustainability efforts through various outreach programs and collaborations. For example, we partner with organizations like the Directorate of Education, State Bank of India and Smiling Tree to conduct tree-planting drives and environmental awareness campaigns. Additionally, we organize community clean-up events and workshops where parents and community members can participate and contribute to our sustainability goals.

Educational videos, awareness campaigns, and regular updates about our initiatives also help in keeping the community informed and involved.

 

Through these comprehensive efforts, we aim to create a well-rounded, environmentally conscious community dedicated to sustainability and reducing our collective carbon footprints.

 

Our school is dedicated to fostering sustainability and environmental stewardship through comprehensive education, special projects, and tangible measures to reduce our carbon footprint. By engaging students, parents, and the community, we amplify our efforts and contribute to a greener future. We remain committed to seeking innovative solutions and partnerships for a more sustainable world. Together, we can build a more eco-conscious society for future generations.