Schools must take lead in addressing ecological challenges’

Srinagar, Dec 23: Bilaliya Educational Institute, Lal Bazar, today inaugurated Eco Visionary Club to enable its students to work towards environmental protection

The club was inaugurated by Dr G.N. Itoo Director of School Education Kashmir, who was the Chief Guest. “This is a great step to protect the environment. Schools must take a leading role in fostering environmental awareness and addressing ecological challenges. I appreciate Manzoor Wangnoo and the management of Bilaliya Educational Institute for launching this innovative program,” Itoo said.

"As Director of School Education, my priority is to ensure coordinated efforts between government and private schools for the holistic development of our students. This includes social, physical, and environmental well-being. It is imperative to take strict actions to protect our environment and revive Kashmir’s reputation as a premier tourist destination,” Itoo added.

Chairman of Bilaliya Educational Institute, Manzoor Wangnoo said the Eco Visionary Club aims to promote environmental education, safeguard Kashmir’s water bodies, and encourage community action against ecological challenges.

"It is our collective responsibility to educate students about the importance of protecting our environment. This initiative ensures that future generations are equipped with the knowledge and tools to preserve nature and address environmental challenges effectively,” Wangnoo said.

Highlighting the club's significance, former Chief Conservator of Forests and Parton NLCO Farooq Geelani remarked, "This initiative is a commendable step toward addressing the ecological degradation in our valley. Such collaborations between schools and government departments can amplify awareness and impact."

PSAJK President, GN Var said that underlined the integration of environmental education into the curriculum, stating "Environmental protection should not be a choice but a priority in education. We must inculcate this ethos among students by including it as part of the academic framework and evaluating their contributions."

Ghulam Mohammad Lone, Chairman of Birla Open Minds, said educational institutions are the pillars of change. “By establishing the Eco Visionary Club, Bilaliya Educational Institute has set a benchmark for others to follow in nurturing eco-conscious citizens."

Farooq Kuthoo, Executive Member KCCI spoke on the pivotal role of the Eco Visionary Club and the collective responsibility of the community, stating:

"Our Imams must also play an active role in raising awareness about protecting water bodies. Tourism is the backbone of Kashmir’s economy, and it depends heavily on our pristine environment." He also quoted environmentalist Dr. Raja Muzaffar, cautioning against inaction: “If we do not introspect and act now, the next decade could witness an ecological disaster.”

Peerzada Fayaz, former president TAAK and state convener Responsible Tourism Society Of India shed light on the broader concept of eco-sustainability. "Understanding the importance of ecology is crucial for the valley’s survival. Awareness must begin at the grassroots level, with students leading the charge,” he said.

The event concluded with the felicitation of Dr. G.N. Itoo for his invaluable contributions to the field of education, Tourism. A vote of thanks was delivered by the Zonal Education Officer (ZEO) Syed Ishrat Lateef, expressing gratitude to all dignitaries and participants for their active involvement in the noble cause. The program was anchored by Principal Nissar Ahmad of Bilaliya Educational Institute.