PANAJI: An awareness programme on the serious repercussions of environmental abuse is being organised for 30 schools around Goa, under a climate change awareness programme, to be conducted during next 18 months.

The initiative is in the nature of an awareness-cum-capacity building programme on climate change and will target students of classes from V to VII.

The programme will be conducted by The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI) and supported by the V S Dempo Holdings Pvt Ltd, in commemoration of the 75th birth anniversary of the former chairman of Dempo Group of Companies, Mr Vasudeva V Dempo.

A sensitisation and motivation workshop for the teachers of these schools was held on Wednesday, at the Dempo House, which witnessed overview of the project given by Ms Shabana Kazi of TERI, and a presentation on ‘Environmental issues in Goa with a focus on climate change’ by the former education officer of the World Wildlife Fund, Mr Ajay Gramopadhye.

Ms Kazi informed that the objectives of the project include creation of awareness on key climate change issues amongst schools, in context with local issues; enhancement in the ability of students and teachers to respond to the climate change problem by training and motivating them to take action; development in the synergy between schools by initiating knowledge exchange between them; and motivation of students to further educate their peers and influence more environmental friendly actions.

"The highlights of the programme include initiation workshop, development and dissemination of special resource material, awareness and sensitisation workshops, competitions, field visits and web page development," she added,

Mr Gramopadhye spoke about the flora and fauna of Goa, and also discussed the environmental condition of the state vis-à-vis rapid climatic changes.

The executive director of Dempo Industries, Ms Pallavi Dempo, speaking on the occasion said that Goa being a coastal state is more prone to the dangers of climate change.

"We need commitment from parents and teachers to take this programme forward," she added.

The senior general manager (human resources) of Dempo Industries, Mr B T Boke said that Dempos are synonymous with the growth and development of Goa and have been shouldering the corporate social responsibilities in sectors like education,
sports and culture.

He also informed about the Dempo-Fomento educational project for financing Goan scholars, as regards higher education in professional sector.

Earlier, Ms Livleen Kahlon of TERI said that 70 per cent of the staff members of TERI are below the age group of 40 years and are very active in the endeavours
of the institute.