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Educational Outreach for Aquatic Ecosystem Preservation
Centurion University’s commitment to lifelong learning extends beyond its campus through various educational outreach programs focused on aquatic ecosystem preservation. These initiatives involve students and local communities in sustainable practices, aiming to create awareness and drive responsible environmental stewardship.
Centurion University is committed to promoting sustainable aquatic practices through outreach activities beyond the campus. Students from the School of Fisheries regularly participate in community initiatives aimed at preserving local water bodies. On November 2, 2023, during the Blue Fiesta celebration, 26 students took part in maintaining the WAPCOS pond, focusing on weed removal and water quality monitoring to ensure a healthy environment. These activities help promote sustainable fish farming and the protection of local aquatic ecosystems.
Students engage in regular National Service Scheme (NSS) activities, which include pond cleaning, water quality assessments, and working with local farmers to improve aquaculture practices. These efforts support better fish culture management and the overall health of water bodies.
The University also organizes awareness programs in nearby villages, covering topics like water conservation, pollution prevention, and the proper use of resources. These programs teach local communities how to reduce pollutants, manage waste, and protect water quality.
Through these educational outreach activities, Centurion University encourages sustainable practices and fosters environmental responsibility in students and local communities.
Programs Promoting Aquatic Stewardship
Centurion University prioritizes sustainable aquatic practices through education, community engagement, and targeted programs aimed at conserving aquatic ecosystems. These efforts focus on collaborating with local communities and fishermen to encourage sustainable fishing practices, prevent the spread of invasive species, and promote responsible resource management, including minimizing pesticide use.
Community Awareness Initiatives
Since 2018-19, the School of Fisheries at Centurion University has organized several awareness programs to advocate for water conservation and reduce pollution in nearby villages in Paralakhemundi, Gajapati, Odisha. Key topics include:
– Preventing pollution in local water bodies
– Conserving water by avoiding unnecessary usage
– Proper disposal of pollutants such as paints and oils
– Cautious use of pesticides and fertilizers to reduce runoff
– Planting greenery to prevent soil and pollutant runoff
– Removing invasive aquatic plants from local ponds to maintain ecosystem health
Annual Beach Cleanup Drives
Each year, Centurion University organizes beach cleanup drives, engaging students and local communities in hands-on activities that promote environmental responsibility. In 2023, for instance, a cleanup drive in Paralakhemundi involved 45 students and highlighted the importance of reducing beach pollution and adopting sustainable habits. These activities are designed to foster long-term behavioral change for healthier aquatic environments.
Through these educational outreach programs, Centurion University supports environmental sustainability by engaging with local communities and schools, creating awareness, and empowering individuals to take proactive steps toward preserving aquatic ecosystems.
Prevention of Invasive Species
Centurion University actively prevents the unregulated entry of invasive fish species such as Tilapia, Thai Magur, and American catfish, which threaten local biodiversity and the socio-economic stability of communities relying on these ecosystems. Unchecked breeding of exotic fish species can lead to hybridization with native species, causing genetic contamination. The university’s initiatives ensure that indigenous aquatic biodiversity is preserved.
Promoting Organic Aquaculture Practices
To limit chemical pollutants in aquaculture, Centurion University advocates the use of organic manure over chemical applications in fish ponds. Organic manure minimizes the environmental impact of antibiotics and chemicals often used in fish farming, promoting a healthier aquatic environment.