India - Empowering Young People to engage in Water Conservation: A Joyful Day of Learning on an Eco-Sustainable Farm
Thanjavur, India – October 2024 - The Salesian Province of Tiruchy (INT), organised an Exhibition Visit and a Talent Expo for members of the water conservation club on 15 October at Don Bosco Thanjavur and the Agricultural Farm in Sengipatti. The event aimed to inspire young minds on the importance of water conservation and to educate them on sustainable practices for the efficient use of water resources, promoting a more environmentally conscious future. 140 club members from six Salesian educational institutions, including Salesians and staff who accompanied the boys, took part in the event. The day began with an information session, followed by a series of competitions, including the creation of posters, speech competitions, mimes and quizzes. These activities offered students a great opportunity to express their creativity and knowledge, while fostering a sense of collaboration and enthusiasm. The winners were rewarded with prizes, and each participant was given a stationery kit as a sign of encouragement. Students were accompanied on a guided tour of the Sengipatti Agricultural School, which proved to be a practical demonstration of water conservation techniques in action. The students observed various methods, such as drip irrigation, spray irrigation, rainwater collection systems at terrace and ground level. The young people were fascinated by the new and innovative techniques used. They also explored the eco-sustainable farm, discovering different species of trees, medicinal plants, agricultural practices, and eagerly observed peacocks, small birds, butterflies, and beetles.