The Ecotiva Club of Don Bosco College, Panjim recently held a workshop on ‘Organic
Lifestyle’. Speakers well versed in their respective fields were invited to
speak on different topics. The workshop started in the presence of the
Principal Dr Cedric Silveira and Manager Fr Joaquim Lobo.
Fr Lobo, during his speech said, “A little change by each of us
is a huge step for the world.”
The first speaker was Sheryl Alfonso e D’souza, who is a
certified Clinical Nutritionist. She spoke about a healthy nutritious diet and
how important it is in this generation. She broke down multiple myths and
misconceptions people have related to diets and meals. She advised the
gathering to practice smart shopping and gave pointers to keep in mind when
they go to a supermarket or a local market.
After the first session, there was a short break in which the
guests were served Kokum and Khatkhatem with bread, which really matched the
aesthetic of the day.
This was followed by a session by Miguel Braganza, a very
well-known botanist and agriculturalist. He mainly focused on Eco friendly
methods of growing plants and pest control management. He highlighted topics
like waste management, composting, etc. He spoke about youth around Goa who are
invested in gardening and practising organic farming. He made the audience
aware about different dangerous fertilisers and encouraged the people to use
safer options instead.
The third session was conducted by Aquaponics experts Peter
Singh and Neeno Kaur. They focused on Aquaponics, organic gardening and why it
is a better option. He made a very important point: “The only way to ensure
your food is a hundred percent organic is by growing it yourself.” Neeno Kaur
explained how they have practised Aquaponics in their home. By the end of the
session, the audience was really impressed by the idea.
Rina Barreto e Shankar concluded the workshop with a brief
session on microgreens along with Vishesh Mardolkar.
Radish and sunflower microgreens were then passed around the
gathering for a taste. The crowd was then invited to a tent where various
microgreens were put up for sale.
At
the end of the session, the attendees were convinced of the need to adopt
healthy dietary habits and practise a sustainable lifestyle. Certificates were
given to the participants of the workshop.
