Empowering Sustainable Aquatic Practices: Community Engagement and Education at Centurion University
Community Outreach for Sustainable Freshwater Management
On September 10 and 12, 2023, Centurion University’s School of Fisheries, conducted an educational program on sustainable freshwater management practices at the Paralakhemundi campus in Odisha. Supported by three faculty members and 35 students, the event featured two stalls designed to engage and educate the local community on the importance of freshwater conservation, water management, and aquatic biodiversity.
This outreach initiative aimed to foster a stronger sense of responsibility for preserving freshwater resources. By sharing practical knowledge, the program encouraged participants to adopt sustainable practices that support environmental health and contribute positively to the local economy.
Empowering Fish Farmers with Sustainable Aquaculture Practices
On July 10, 2023, Centurion University’s School of Fisheries organized an educational program on phase-wise manuring to support sustainable fish farming in the community. The event took place at the university’s aquaculture research farm in Totagumada, near Gajapati district, Odisha, as part of Fish Farmer Day celebrations. Supported by faculty and FELP students, this outreach aimed to educate local fish farmers and pond managers on the benefits of systematic nutrient management.
By optimizing nutrient availability and improving pond productivity, phase-wise manuring promotes healthier fish and higher yields, making it a sustainable practice that benefits both the environment and the local economy. The program provided farmers with practical knowledge and tools to enhance their aquaculture practices, fostering long-term success in sustainable fish farming.
Sustainable Fishing Awareness:
Centurion University Promotes Solar Fish Drying for Rural Communities
Centurion University is actively engaging in community outreach to raise awareness about sustainable fishing practices, focusing on the impact of overfishing and destructive fishing techniques. On 5th March 2023, the School of Fisheries (SoF), Centurion University, led a program on Fish Farmer Day at the Paralakhemundi campus. The event centered on promoting solar fish drying technology as an eco-friendly, cost-effective method that not only improves fish preservation quality but also supports income generation for rural fishers and farmers.
This initiative brought together over 30 students and faculty members to educate rural communities on the advantages of adopting solar fish driers. Through this program, the University aimed to address common concerns about the new technology, highlight its benefits, and encourage local fishers to move away from unsustainable practices. The program served as a platform for bridging traditional methods with sustainable innovations, demonstrating the long-term benefits of solar drying for enhancing livelihoods while supporting environmental stewardship.
This outreach effort reflects Centurion University’s commitment to raising awareness about sustainable fishing practices and fostering community adoption of environmentally-friendly techniques that mitigate the effects of overfishing.