Kittur Rani Chennamma Residential School Earns Prestigious Environmental Award
Located in Kundgol, Karnataka, the Kittur Rani Chennamma Residential School, managed by the social welfare department, has garnered significant attention for its outstanding commitment to environmental sustainability. This institution operates as a plastic-free zone and powers its entire campus using solar energy, setting a remarkable example for eco-conscious education.
Expansive Green Campus and Diverse Plant Life
Spread across a sprawling 3-acre campus, the school maintains an impressive collection of more than 500 plants, featuring a wide variety of species. These include coconut trees, chikku trees, guava trees, medicinal plants, and decorative plants. The lush greenery not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also provides essential shade and a serene atmosphere for staff, students, and visitors alike.
Around 250 students from grades 6 to 10 actively participate in planting and nurturing these saplings, fostering a hands-on learning experience in environmental stewardship.
Sustainable Practices and Innovative Initiatives
The school has implemented several key sustainable practices to minimize its ecological footprint:
- Rainwater Harvesting: The institution has adopted an effective rainwater harvesting system that prevents rainwater from flowing into drains. Instead, it collects and stores the water, which has successfully recharged a borewell on the premises, ensuring a reliable water supply.
- Dry Leaf Composting: Embracing organic waste management, the school practices dry leaf composting, turning fallen leaves into nutrient-rich compost for its gardens.
- Kitchen Garden: A dedicated small space is utilized as a kitchen garden, where vegetables are grown, promoting self-sufficiency and teaching students about sustainable agriculture.
Recognition and Awards for Environmental Excellence
The school's dedication to green initiatives has earned it the prestigious Parisara Mitra School Award, presented by the Hubballi-Dharwad Nagarika Parisara Samiti. This award recognizes outstanding efforts in environmental conservation among educational institutions.
On Thursday, Hindustani classical vocalist Pandit M Venkatesh Kumar presented the awards to the winning schools, highlighting the importance of such initiatives in fostering environmental awareness from a young age.
Leadership and Community Impact
Jyothi Badami, the principal of Kittur Rani Chennamma Residential School in Betadur Kundgol, expressed pride in the students' efforts. She stated, "We bagged the Green School award. After that, we received the Parisara Mitra award. We adopted various programmes that helped us go green." Her leadership has been instrumental in driving these eco-friendly changes.
Shankar Kumbi, president of the Hubballi-Dharwad Nagarika Parisara Samiti, explained the award's significance. He noted that while the Karnataka State Pollution Control Board previously organized similar events, they were discontinued after Covid-19. However, the Samiti continued the program to raise environmental awareness among children.
Kumbi added, "We chose the best 11 schools in the district maintaining green campuses, rainwater harvesting, and solar power, etc. The initiative aims to develop interest in the environment among students at an early age and recognises schools for best practices in environmental conservation."
This recognition underscores the school's role as a model for sustainable education, inspiring other institutions to adopt similar practices for a greener future.
