3.Good Health and Wellbeing

Centurion Cares

3. Good Health and Wellbeing

Centurion University is deeply committed to the primary objective of Sustainable Development Goal 3, which aims to ensure the attainment of good health and well-being for people of all ages. The University embraces a diverse array of targets and indicators to enhance various facets of health dynamics, working towards the goal of achieving optimal health for individuals globally.

Community Engagements:
The overarching goal of Centurion University is to prioritize optimal health and the advancement of overall well-being within communities. Actively engaging with local populations, the University tailors healthcare interventions to suit distinct requirements. Efforts include organizing community health programs and addressing health issues in underserved regions, with a specific focus on nutritional enrichment in adopted villages.

Academics:
The University extends clinical and diagnostic services to community members at no or low cost through its officially registered Community Diagnostic Center. This initiative not only provides hands-on experience for students but also contributes to the welfare of society. Additionally, the University conducts seminars to educate communities about disease prevention, vaccination, and healthy lifestyle choices. Training and capacity-building programs, such as nurturing and agricultural training, are integral components of the University’s commitment to SDG 3.

Research:
Centurion University engages in research focused on matters impacting local health, contributing to an enhanced understanding of local health challenges. Collaborative research endeavours play a pivotal role in effectively addressing targeted health issues within the community, leading to the development of practical and sustainable solutions. The University has published 111 research papers by 2022, focusing on key aspects of SDG 3.

Entrepreneurship:
Fostering innovation, the University provides guidance to students and faculty in the development of entrepreneurial remedies for health-related predicaments. It offers resources for students to establish diagnostic chain facilities in rural communities, in collaboration with its School of Pharmacy and Allied Health Sciences (SoPAHS).

Social Impact:
Centurion University actively promotes social impact through outreach initiatives aligned with SDG 3. Engaging in the empowerment of health literacy within local communities, these initiatives provide individuals with the ability to make informed decisions regarding their health. The health camps organized by the University significantly contribute towards improved health outcomes, emphasizing its pivotal role in advancing the goals of SDG 3.

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1.No Poverty

Centurion Cares

1. No Poverty

Centurion University stands resolute in its dedication to Sustainable Development Goal 1, which strives for the eradication of poverty in all its manifestations. Our institution, through a multitude of initiatives, educational endeavours, and community partnerships, endeavours to empower individuals and communities, especially those facing economic challenges, equipping them with the knowledge and skills needed for socioeconomic upliftment and contributing to the global drive to eliminate poverty.

Community Engagements:
Centurion University’s steadfast commitment to community engagement is exemplified by its active collaboration with local communities to confront poverty-related issues. This involves the provision of educational and skill-enhancement opportunities, backing income-generating programs, and involving students and faculty in projects dedicated to poverty alleviation. By fostering economic and social empowerment, the University seeks to make a meaningful contribution to the overarching objective of poverty reduction.

Academics:
Through our academic initiatives, Centurion University endeavours to imbue students with the knowledge and skills essential for addressing the challenges posed by poverty. Our programs and research activities are meticulously designed to contribute to the global goal of eradicating poverty by empowering individuals with the tools needed to make a positive impact.

Research:
With state-of-the-art research facilities, Centurion University has published 91 research papers until 2022, primarily focused on the key tenets of SDG 1. This research not only advances academic knowledge but also serves as a beacon guiding practical interventions and policies for poverty eradication.

Entrepreneurship:
Encouraging a scientific mindset that fosters innovation, Centurion University proudly boasts 49 startups incubated as of 2023. This entrepreneurial focus equips students and staff with the acumen to explore new ideas and embark on business ventures, thereby contributing to economic growth and, consequently, poverty reduction.

Social Impact:
In a dedicated effort, Centurion University has adopted and collaboratively worked with five villages in the surrounding area. The primary objective is to educate local farmers on sustainable farming methods, thereby improving the long-term farming landscape and, in turn, alleviating poverty within these communities. This holistic approach underscores our commitment to creating a lasting social impact in the fight against poverty.

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SDG 15 Life On Land

Ensuring Water Quality and Environmental Responsibility

Ensuring Water Quality and Environmental Responsibility

At Centurion University, the commitment to environmental responsibility goes beyond waste management. However, the University’s dedication to environmental stewardship extends to various research activities and waste management practices that contribute to safeguarding water quality and, consequently, protecting ecosystems, wildlife, and human health and welfare.

The University is actively engaged in diverse research activities that align with its mission of environmental conservation. Some noteworthy projects include the development of eco-friendly plates and bowls from straw waste, heavy metals removal from treated sewage water through phytoremediation, and the creation of construction materials such as paver blocks, bricks, and wall panels from various waste sources. These initiatives not only reduce waste but also have a positive impact on water quality by preventing harmful substances from entering water bodies.

The University prioritizes the proper management of biomedical solid waste. The waste is meticulously segregated and stored in specially designated bins, which are then collected from various locations within the campus. These bins, filled with biomedical waste, are handled by Saniclean Private Limited, a partner with whom the University has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). Saniclean ensures the safe and environmentally sound disposal of biomedical waste. Moreover, to address specific needs, the university has installed incinerators in the ladies’ hostels for the safe disposal of used sanitary pads. This approach not only promotes hygiene but also prevents potential water contamination.

While specific water quality standards and guidelines for water discharges are not explicitly outlined, the university’s dedication to responsible waste management and innovative research underscores its commitment to environmental protection. Centurion University’s efforts contribute to the broader goals of preserving ecosystems, safeguarding wildlife, and enhancing the overall well-being of its community and the environment.

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SDG 15 Life On Land

Collaboration with the Local Community- Bagushala and Ranadevi Farm

Collaboration with the Local Community- Bagushala and Ranadevi Farm

Centurion University is deeply committed to integrating local biodiversity into its planning and development processes, including the construction of new buildings and infrastructure. The university recognizes the importance of preserving and enhancing the local ecosystem while expanding its campus and facilities.

One notable example of this commitment is evident in the agricultural farm development initiatives. The University has established three farms, namely Bagushala, Ranadevi, and Gandahati, each strategically located to support research, practical learning, and sustainable land use. These farms serve as living laboratories where students actively engage in farming practices and crop development.

Bagushala, situated 10 km from the University’s campus, provides students with hands-on experience in agriculture and agronomy. Here, a dedicated lab was constructed in 2014 to facilitate practical learning related to crop development. This 5-acre farm is equipped with adequate water supply and transportation infrastructure for easy access by both locals and students.

Similarly, the Ranadevi farm, located 5 km from the campus, is designed to meet the educational needs of agri-engineering students. Plans for constructing a farm learning centre and lab are in progress, further enhancing its capacity to support agricultural research and learning.

The farm in the Gandahati area, near a popular tourist attraction, is another demonstration of Centurion University’s commitment to sustainability. This 12-acre farm integrates tourism and agriculture, offering visitors a pleasant garden with amenities while contributing to the local economy. The construction of labs and learning centres on this land ensures that students can conduct experiments and research in the midst of this unique ecosystem.

All of these farms are actively used for crop cultivation, including rice, maize, sorghum, bajra, finger millets, proso millet, and horticultural species. Notably, the university places a strong emphasis on organic farming practices, aiming to restore and condition the soil through natural inputs. The study of organic farming methods and the maximization of product yield are integral parts of the university’s sustainable land use initiatives.

Centurion University incorporates local biodiversity into its planning and development processes by establishing farms that not only serve as educational resources but also promote sustainable land management practices. These farms not only enrich students’ learning experiences but also contribute to the preservation and enhancement of the local ecosystem, aligning with the principles of sustainable development.

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SDG 15 Life On Land

Butterflies, Bees, and Cactus Garden

Butterflies, Bees, and Cactus Garden

Centurion University takes a profound and dedicated approach to including local biodiversity in its planning and development processes. One remarkable embodiment of this commitment is the creation of the Butterflies, Bees, and Cactus Garden, a sanctuary that serves as a resplendent oasis within the bustling Bhubaneswar campus.

Recognizing the critical role played by pollinators such as butterflies and bees in the delicate tapestry of our natural world, the university embarked on a visionary journey to provide them with a haven amidst the challenges posed by pollution, habitat degradation, and climate change. This initiative is a response to the urgent realization that the survival of these unsung heroes of Mother Nature is intricately linked to the planet’s biodiversity and overall ecosystem health.

In just two years, the Butterflies, Bees, and Cactus Garden has evolved into a thriving terrestrial paradise. It not only supports the crucial task of pollination but has also enticed the return of once-vanished birds, reptiles, and small mammals to an ecosystem once dominated by human encroachment. This garden showcases the powerful impact that such endeavors can have on the local ecosystem, breathing new life into it.

Within this vibrant sanctuary, local flowers, fruits, and plants, once on the brink of oblivion, have made a triumphant return. The flourishing growth of these plants, the vibrant tapestry of blossoms, and the majesty of trees have contributed to the resurgence of a flourishing flora and fauna. The garden acts as a critical building block in rebuilding a thriving ecosystem.

One of the garden’s highlights is the RaajKamal Butterfly Garden, a serene sanctuary adorned with an exquisite assortment of shrubs, herbs, climbers, and resplendent trees. A tranquil pool graces this space, further enriching the ecosystem with its aquatic life. It’s not only a testament to our commitment to biodiversity but also a haven for students to immerse themselves in nature, finding solace and inspiration.

The garden also features an extensive plantation of cacti and succulents, providing a serene atmosphere. Meticulously tended bee boxes, scattered throughout the landscape, hum with the diligent work of these remarkable creatures as they gather and store nature’s golden nectar. Every aspect of this garden fosters harmony, creating an environment where nature thrives and visitors can revel in the symphony of existence.

Centurion University’s Butterflies, Bees, and Cactus Garden embodies our unwavering commitment to sustainable practices and responsible environmental stewardship. It stands as a testament to our dedication to nurturing local biodiversity within our planning and development processes. As we celebrate the resurgence of our ecosystem within this verdant sanctuary, we invite all to witness the triumphant flight of nature’s architects.

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SDG 15 Life On Land

Educational programmes/outreach for local or national communities

Educational programmes/outreach for local or national communities

Centurion University is deeply committed to offering educational programs and conducting outreach initiatives for both local and national communities with a strong focus on the sustainable management of land for agriculture and tourism. These initiatives are designed to empower individuals and communities with knowledge and skills that promote sustainable practices and environmental conservation.

One of the fundamental pillars of these efforts is to educate individuals on the understanding and preservation of ecosystems. Students at Centurion University actively engage in learning about their surrounding ecosystems, tree species, and non-timber forest products (NTFP). This knowledge equips them to make informed decisions about land use, resource management, and biodiversity conservation.

Centurion University also offers courses and programs related to aquatic ecology, biodiversity, and disaster management. These educational offerings prepare students to appreciate the importance of different ecological niches, manage fisheries responsibly, and respond effectively to environmental disasters.

Additionally, the University places a strong emphasis on agricultural heritage and organic farming. Students gain insights into sustainable agriculture and its role in safeguarding social, cultural, economic, and environmental well-being. Courses in organic farming impart valuable skills for sustainable agricultural practices, low-cost media preparation, and the use of eco-friendly inputs.

Centurion University further supports the cause of sustainable land management by offering courses in plant ecology, phytogeography, and environmental science. These programs provide students with a comprehensive understanding of ecological principles, biodiversity conservation, and the impacts of climate change.

The University also actively addresses the challenges posed by climate change. Courses like “Climate Change, Sustainability, and Organizations” help individuals understand the broader implications of climate change on organizations’ performance, growth, and sustainability. Moreover, students are educated on the importance of sustainable development and its alignment with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Furthermore, Centurion University offers courses in waste disposal and pollution abatement, equipping students with the knowledge needed to address environmental challenges associated with waste management.

Through these educational programs and outreach activities, Centurion University seeks to empower local and national communities to adopt sustainable land management practices for agriculture and tourism. By imparting knowledge, skills, and awareness, the University plays a crucial role in promoting responsible land use and environmental conservation, contributing to a more sustainable future for all.

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SDG 15 Life On Land

Ecosystem Education and Biodiversity Enhancement

Centurion University’s Contribution to Ecosystem Education and Biodiversity Enhancement

Centurion University actively engages in educational programs aimed at enriching the local and national communities’ understanding of ecosystems and biodiversity. These efforts include campaigns, plantation programs, and educational initiatives within various academic courses.

Undergraduate programs like B.Sc. Agriculture incorporates activities such as identifying different weeds, tree species, and wildlife in and around the campus. Students from disciplines like Agronomy, Agroforestry, and Entomology participate in these identification exercises. Additionally, farmers’ training programs encourage organic crop cultivation and other sustainable agricultural practices, enhancing local biodiversity. The students go to the local farmers encoursgig them to adopt sustainable agricultural practices.

Centurion University’s 1.2-acre organic farm serves as a hub for research and practical learning. It features units like Vermicompost, Azolla culture, a low-cost polyhouse, and more, all designed to promote biodiversity and organic farming. Students across various academic programs are actively involved in research and activities that contribute to ecosystem enhancement.

The University also maintains a Soil Health Monitoring Unit, which monitors various soil parameters to inform pollution mitigation measures. Furthermore, students engage in soil sample collection, testing, and result analysis, gaining valuable skills in the process.

These educational programs not only benefit students but also attract local farmers, NGOs, government officials, and even international visitors, further promoting the importance of ecosystems and biodiversity conservation.

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SDG 15 Life On Land

Commitment to Biodiversity Conservation

Centurion University’s Commitment to Biodiversity Conservation

Centurion University has extensive and well-planned campuses in Bhubaneswar, Parlakhemundi, Rayagada and Balangir, with 25% of the land area dedicated to green spaces. It has fostered renewable energy use and water conservation measures so as to reduce its carbon footprints. It has robust infrastructure in terms of quality and capacity to ensure that each student has access to the relevant facilities and a conducive environment for realizing the planned learning outcomes. A number of initiatives have been taken for the protection of the environment such as a tobacco and alcohol-free campus, Plastic-free campus, Conversion of biodegradable waste into biofertilizer, Plantation of trees, Regular cleanliness drive, Soil Conservation through plantation and contour development, Rain water harvesting, Energy Management practices, Regular awareness drive and competitions organized by Green Club, Erection of Grid interactive solar power plant, Waste water recycling through gardening, Annual census of floral and faunal resources, etc.

Centurion University is dedicated to maintaining and enhancing biodiversity, including flora and fauna, within its campus ecosystems. The University actively contributes to protecting threatened ecosystems and conducting biodiversity studies.

Centurion University’s campuses, particularly in Gajapati and Bhubaneswar, host diverse ecosystems. These ecosystems support a wide variety of wildlife, including trees, birds, butterflies, insects, arthropods, mammals, reptiles, amphibians, and more. It conducts extensive biodiversity studies to document the richness of its ecosystems. This includes cataloguing tree species, bird species, insects, and other wildlife. Through systematic sampling, the university identified a total of 39 woody tree species, enriching the campus environment. Prominent species like Teak and Mango contribute to the local biodiversity.

A total of 33 bird species, 15 mammal species, and 11 reptile species have been observed on campus. These observations contribute valuable data for understanding and conserving local fauna. The University’s commitment to biodiversity extends to insects and arthropods. The campus hosts 104 species of insects, with pollinators playing a crucial role in supporting the environment, thus actively engaging in afforestation and reforestation efforts, ensuring the preservation and restoration of biodiversity within its campuses. The University’s Plant Tissue Culture Laboratory plays a crucial role in maintaining biodiversity by providing healthy starter plants, including banana, pineapple, and ornamental plants. This initiative aims to offer academic training, research opportunities, and skill development to students while benefiting tribal farmers and rural communities.

Centurion University’s campuses are designed to reduce their carbon footprint, with a focus on renewable energy use and water conservation. These efforts align with responsible land and resource management, contributing to biodiversity conservation. The University prioritizes the preservation and enhancement of biodiversity within its campuses through biodiversity studies, afforestation, and sustainable land management and utilisation. This way, the university is dedicated to protecting threatened ecosystems and promoting biodiversity conservation.

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SDG 15 Life On Land

Conservation and Sustainable Land Management Through Soil Health Cards

Contribution to Conservation and Sustainable Land Management Through Soil Health Cards

The Soil Health Card (SHC) Scheme, a government initiative, exemplifies the commitment to sustainable land management, as per SDG 15 – Life on Land. This visionary scheme operating since 2021 aims to provide farmers with essential information through soil cards, offering crop-specific recommendations on nutrients and fertilizers tailored to their individual farms. The objective is to enable farmers to enhance productivity while ensuring the responsible use of agricultural inputs. This endeavour involves the comprehensive testing of soil samples at various soil testing laboratories across the country. Expert analysis then assesses soil strengths and weaknesses, including micro-nutrient deficiencies, with corresponding recommendations. These insights and guidance are meticulously documented in the soil health cards.

In a collaborative effort with State Governments, the M.S. Swaminathan School of Agriculture has actively engaged in analyzing soil samples and distributing soil health cards. A dedicated Soil Health Monitoring Laboratory was established to facilitate the SHC services. Since its inception and as on 2022, over 200 Soil Health Cards have been issued, with ongoing work involving an additional 140 samples. 

The importance of the Soil Health Card scheme in the context of SDG 15 cannot be overstated. It serves as a vital tool for monitoring and enhancing soil quality. Farmers receive well-structured reports, empowering them to make informed decisions about crop selection and cultivation practices. The soil cards provide valuable insights into nutrient deficiencies, guiding farmers towards appropriate crop choices and fertilizer usage. Ultimately, this leads to increased crop yields, reinforcing the sustainable management of land resources as outlined in SDG 15 – Life on Land.

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SDG 15 Life On Land

Conservation and Sustainable Land Management Initiatives

Conservation and Sustainable Land Management Initiatives 

The “Utkal Krishi Mela” 2 day event organized in 10-11 March, 2022 by the M.S. Swaminathan School of Agriculture had a strong alignment with Sustainable Development Goal 15 (SDG 15) – Life on Land. The event was themed “Exploring the Unexplored Affluent Agri Odisha,” brought together over 2000 farmers, entrepreneurs, students, and faculty members.

The event kicked off with an inauguration program, followed by a technical session that fostered interactions between farmers and Subject Matter Specialists. This session delved into scientific farming practices and solutions to the challenges faced by farmers in Odisha. Over 2000 farmers actively participated in these discussions, contributing to the promotion of sustainable agriculture practices.

The second day of the event showcased cutting-edge technologies in agriculture, such as the use of drones, augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), hydroponics, hi-tech agriculture, aquaponics, and recirculatory aquaculture systems. Faculty members and students engaged with visitors at stalls, explaining these technologies through models and posters. These stalls were set up by a variety of organizations, including government departments like the State Department of Agriculture and the State Department of Horticulture, private multinational companies, agricultural implement manufacturers, other agricultural universities, the School of Fisheries, and CUTM. The distribution of pamphlets further disseminated knowledge about sustainable agriculture practices.

Moreover, the event recognized and celebrated the achievements of progressive farmers from the Gajapati district. This recognition incentivized sustainable farming practices and contributed to the goals of SDG 15 by promoting the responsible management of land and ecosystems.

In addition to the technical and informative aspects, the event also featured a cultural program, highlighting the importance of cultural heritage and traditions in rural communities. This holistic approach, integrating knowledge sharing, technology dissemination, and cultural appreciation, aligns with the spirit of SDG 15, which aims to protect, restore, and promote sustainable use of terrestrial ecosystems.

Centurion University has extensive and well-planned campuses in Bhubaneswar, Parlakhemundi, Rayagada and Balangir, with 25% of the land area dedicated to green spaces. It has fostered renewable energy use and water conservation measures so as to reduce its carbon footprints. It has robust infrastructure in terms of quality and capacity to ensure that each student has access to the relevant facilities and a conducive environment for realizing the planned learning outcomes. A number of initiatives have been taken for the protection of the environment such as a tobacco and alcohol-free campus, Plastic-free campus, Conversion of biodegradable waste into biofertilizer, Plantation of trees, Regular cleanliness drive, Soil Conservation through plantation and contour development, Rain water harvesting, Energy Management practices, Regular awareness drive and competitions organized by Green Club, Erection of Grid interactive solar power plant, Waste water recycling through gardening, Annual census of floral and faunal resources, etc.

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