2024-11-13

Freshwater ecosystems have enormous biological, environmental, social, educational and economic value and provide a range of goods and services upon which people, and all life, depend. But today due to increased urbanization, industrialization and associated  pollutions and deterioration majority of the freshwater habitats has been depleted. TIES along with IUCN Fondation Segre, is implementing a project, Protection of Freshwater Ecosystems for the Conservation of Threatened Species in Munnar, Western Ghats, India, at Munnar, Kerala to promote freshwater ecosystem conservation in the area. And thus workshops, seminars, painting competitions,  has been conducted in several parts of the highland ecosystem. Recently,  a workshop focused on the "Conservation of Freshwater Habitat in Munnar" was held at Government Higher Secondary School (GHSS) in Vattavada, Munnar, Idukki. It was aimed to educate and inspire both faculties and students in the mission to protect local freshwater ecosystems. This workshop marked the third in a series conducted by the TIES-IUCN team, further strengthening community engagement in environmental conservation efforts. 78 participants from classes 5 to 10, along with teaching and non-teaching staffs attended the workshop.

The program commenced with a welcome address by Mrs. Kawsalya R., a teacher at GHSS Vattavada, followed by a presidential address from Mrs. Priya M., also a teacher at the host institution. Mr. Jagan Lal, Headmaster of GHSS Vattavada, delivered the inaugural address, highlighting the critical need for conservation efforts amidst rising pollution in Vattavada, particularly in freshwater tourist areas and due to inadequate drainage facilities.

An interactive ice-breaking session was conducted was led by Mr. Nihal Hussain T.P., Project Officer with the TIES IUCN Project. Two informative sessions on freshwater habitat conservation followed: “Freshwater and Conservation Strategies,” conducted by Mr. Praful V. Panicker, Project Officer, and “Odonates and Threatened Species in Munnar,” led by Mr. Bechu Punnen Abraham, Project Assistant. 

The workshop also featured group discussions, and presentations, providing participants with opportunities to share insights and deepen their understanding of conservation practices. Team led by Kumari. Priyadharshini won first prize for their overall performances in all activities in various competitions. Mr. Balakrishnan, Senior Staff at GHSS Vattavada, distributed the prizes. Ms. Fousiya, a teacher at GHSS Vattavada, shared the vote of thanks.