As part of the extension and outreach initiatives of T. K. Madhava Memorial College, Nangiarkulangara, the Department of Zoology, actively participated in an environmental awareness programme at Government Higher Secondary School, Mangalam on 4 July 2026. The outreach activity aimed to extend scientific knowledge beyond the college campus by creating awareness among school students and the local community on the growing environmental challenge posed by microplastic pollution.
The programme was organized in association with the Alappuzha Kerala Photographers Association (AKPA), Karthikappally Unit, under the theme "Microplastics – A Growing Environmental Concern." The initiative reflected the college's commitment to community engagement, environmental education, and sustainable development through meaningful extension activities.
The awareness session was conducted by Dr. Jasmine Anand, Head, Department of Zoology, T. K. Madhava Memorial College, who served as the resource person. During the session, Dr. Jasmine Anand explained the sources, formation, and widespread occurrence of microplastics in terrestrial, freshwater, and marine ecosystems. She discussed how plastic waste degrades into microscopic particles that contaminate soil, rivers, estuaries, oceans, seafood, drinking water, and even the human food chain.
Special emphasis was given to the vulnerability of coastal ecosystems and fishing communities, as Government Higher Secondary School, Mangalam serves students from a coastal region where livelihoods are closely linked to the marine environment. The session highlighted the impacts of plastic pollution on marine biodiversity, fisheries, sea turtles, seabirds, and human health. Students were encouraged to understand their role in protecting coastal resources through responsible waste management, reduction of single-use plastics, recycling, and active participation in environmental conservation programmes.
The programme was highly interactive, with students and participants enthusiastically engaging in discussions on plastic waste management, environmental sustainability, and individual responsibilities in conserving nature. Practical measures to minimize plastic consumption and promote eco-friendly alternatives were also demonstrated. Nearly 75 students participated in the program.
The outreach programme reflects the vision of T. K. Madhava Memorial College in promoting extension activities that directly benefit society. By reaching out to schools in coastal communities, the college strives to bridge the gap between academic knowledge and community needs, fostering environmental awareness among young learners who are future custodians of the coastal ecosystem.
The programme also strengthened the collaboration between the college, local educational institutions, and community organizations, thereby enhancing the social responsibility initiatives of the Department of Zoology. Such extension activities enable faculty members to disseminate scientific knowledge to society while inspiring students to become environmentally conscious citizens.
The programme concluded with an interactive question-and-answer session, during which participants expressed keen interest in learning more about marine pollution and biodiversity conservation. The organizers appreciated the valuable contribution of Dr. Jasmine Anand in making the session informative and inspiring.
This outreach initiative successfully fulfilled the objectives of environmental education and community engagement, reaffirming the commitment of T. K. Madhava Memorial College and its faculty to serving society through knowledge sharing, environmental stewardship, and sustainable development.
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