World Ozone Day Celebrated

Dillip Kumar Pattnaik

KHORDHA, SEPTEMBER 18: Students of Maharana Birabar Government High School at Chandaka in Khordha district observed World Ozone Day with an awareness programme focusing on the importance of protecting the ozone layer and promoting environmental responsibility among the younger generation.

The programme, held on the school premises, highlighted the crucial role of the ozone layer in protecting life on Earth from harmful ultraviolet radiation. Teachers and students discussed the need for environmental conservation, pollution control, protection of natural resources and adoption of sustainable practices to address growing ecological challenges.
Addressing the students, Headmaster Bibhu Prasad Senapati explained the formation and significance of the ozone layer and its protective role in maintaining the ecological balance. He said protection of the ozone layer should not be viewed as the responsibility of government agencies and environmental organisations alone, but should involve active participation from citizens.
He called upon students to develop environment-friendly habits from an early age and incorporate conservation practices into their daily lives. He also emphasised the role of educational institutions in building environmental consciousness and preparing students to become responsible citizens.
The programme also familiarised students with global efforts directed towards ozone protection. Discussions centred on reducing pollution, conserving natural resources, protecting greenery and encouraging sustainable and environment-friendly lifestyles.

An interactive session between teachers and students formed another important part of the observance. Students actively participated in the discussion, shared their views and raised questions relating to environmental protection and conservation. The session helped them understand how individual actions can contribute to wider environmental objectives.
A painting competition organised as part of the programme attracted enthusiastic participation. Students used their creativity to portray themes related to ozone-layer protection, environmental conservation, pollution control and the importance of keeping the Earth clean and green.
The paintings reflected the students’ understanding of environmental concerns and their perception of the challenges posed by pollution and ecological degradation. The competition also provided them with an opportunity to communicate environmental messages through art.
Five paintings adjudged among the best entries were selected and forwarded for the State-level competition. The selection generated enthusiasm among the participants and encouraged students to engage more actively in environmental awareness activities.
Teachers associated with the programme said that such initiatives help students connect classroom learning with real-world environmental issues. They stressed that environmental awareness should be sustained throughout the year rather than being restricted to observances of particular days.
Teachers Mamata Sahu, Sabita Diptirekha Nayak, Tapaswini Behera, Priyanka Bhoi, Manasi Mallik, Bharati Das, Satyabhama Pothal, Salayak Nayak, Sagarika Panda, Deepa Nayak, Amruta Khuntia and Sagarika Behera, along with Amiya Behera, were present during the programme.
Education staff Pratap Kumar Pattnaik and Prasanna Beura extended cooperation in conducting the programme.
The observance concluded with a renewed call for sustained environmental education and greater participation of students in conservation initiatives. The organisers said schools could play a significant role in nurturing environmental consciousness among young people and encouraging them to contribute to the protection of the ozone layer and the broader ecological balance.