Green Corner
VAN MAHOTSAV 2023- A WEEK LONG PLANTING FIESTA Grade I to V 3 rd July - 7 th July 2023
“Future is in our hand, protect the trees, preserve the land.”
Van Mahotsav, a week-long festival of tree plantation is organized every year in Shalom
Hills. Our inspiration and ever encouraging source behind these celebrations is our Founder
and Chairperson ma'am, Dr. Lilly George. She has always encouraged the young Shalomites
to be eco warriors. Our school premises are also integrated with ecofriendly practices.
The first day celebrations began with a PPT, videos and facts on 'Van Mahotsav- its
importance, origin and need that was shown to students of Grade I to V on the 3rd of July.
On the 2 nd day, grade I and III students participated in 'Plantation Drive' where each student
brought a sapling to the school and later planted it in the school garden. Grade II students
indulged in Slogan writing. Grade IV engaged in Mind Map activity to know the importance
of forests in our life. Students of grade V presented “Waste Management” as their holiday
homework.
On the 3 rd day, students of grade I learnt leaf printing. Grade II engaged in poster making
activity. Grade III and IV did Green March and Oath taking activity respectively. Grade V
participated in 'Plantation Drive”.
On the 4 th day, students of grade I and III discussed their holiday homework (Grade I-Fallen
leaves types and Grade III- Growing a plant from stem, root or leaves). Students of grade II
engaged in coaster making activity. Grade IV participated in 'Plantation Drive” where as
students of grade V performed a role play on famous environmentalists.
The culmination of the week-long Van Mahotsav celebrations was done with the help of an
Intra class Poster Making competition by grade I students. 'Plantation Drive' by grade II
students. Grade III and V engaged in Slogan writing and Oath taking activity respectively.
Collages of different types of leaves were presented by grade IV students as their holiday
homework.
'TRIVENI'-THE TREE PLANTATION DRIVE JULY 7 ,2023
Vanmahotsav, also known as Tree Plantation Day, is an annual celebration in India
aimed at raising awareness about the importance of trees and promoting a
greener environment. Van Mahotsav celebrations involve various activities such
as tree planting ceremonies, rallies, seminars, and awareness campaigns.
Government agencies, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), schools, and
citizens actively participate in planting saplings in parks, public spaces, schools,
and other suitable areas. As a part of 'Vanmahotsav' celebration initiated by
'Directorate School Education' Panchkula a plantation drive was conducted in
Shalom Hills International School ,Gurugram on July 7 by the young and
enthusiastic Shalomites.
The students planted the 'Triveni' -Neem, Peepal and Banyan trees in the school
playground and surrounding areas. These trees were planted primarily by the
students born in the July month while the others also pledged to plant a tree on
their birthday. The activity was thoroughly enjoyed by the students. It served as
an eye-opening session, inspiring students to take part in more such activities.
JAL SANSAD ACTIVITY May 17, 2022
“Catch the rain, where it falls, when it falls.”
The students of Shalom Hills School undertook various activities for creating awareness about
Saving Water under the government campaign - JAL SHAKTI.
The secondary and senior secondary students gave a performance during break time to raise
awareness about the importance of Jal Shakti and depicted the problems that people are facing
due to water crisis. Also, problems arising due to drought and floods were portrayed in the
play.
The PE Department encouraged students to give wings to their imagination by depicting the
importance of Jal Shakti. During the work education periods students were sensitized about the
need for water conservation and were asked to put their thoughts into practice.
The Environment & Eco Club of the school undertook a Plantation Drive to create awareness about
the importance of trees and plants in the natural conservation of water.
The Jal Sansad Abhiyan will be an ongoing effort of Shalom Hills as awareness will be created
through messages in the Morning assembly, Home Room Period, Class Discussions and Work Education
Period.
Grade IV EVS-II (Science) Van Mahotsav Activity- “Role Play on Environmentalists” July 6& 7, 2021
“He who plants a tree – Plants a hope.” - LucyLarcom
Van Mahotsav or Forest Festival is an annual tree-planting festival celebrated in the month of
July in which thousands of trees are planted all over the country. Started in 1950 by Dr
KulapatiKanaiyalal Munshi, the Union Minister for Agriculture,it creates enthusiasm among masses
for forest conservation.Trees and forests play a very crucial role in maintaining an ecological
balance and Van Mahotsav is a reminder that we must protect forests and stop deforestation.
Environmental activists play a major role to protect the nature and inspire others to follow the
same. These people are the part of green movement and have a common agenda on protecting and
preserving the flora and fauna. Inspired by such people,children of Grade IV performed role
plays on various environmentalists. It was mesmerizing seeing children dressed up like Sunderlal
Bahuguna, Medha Patkar, Maneka Gandhi, SaalumaradaThimmakka, M.S. Swaminathan, Vandana Shiva,
Julia Butterfly Hill and many more.
The virtual platform was not a constraint for children as they were very confident in expressing
the contribution of environmental activists in the society. They also talked about Chipko
movement, Save Silent Valley movement, Narmada BachaoAndholan, Tehri Dam Conflict and so on. It
was a tribute tothe environmental activists throughout the worldby our young Shalomitesand
reminded everyone to love nature and save Mother Earth.
Van Mahotsav– Elocution Activity July 06, 2021
Van Mahotsav, a week-long festival is organized every year in thefirst week of July across India
when millions of trees are planted. In an earnest attempt to lend a green touch to the
environment, students of grade V stressed on the importance of trees by speaking on the topic
“Protecting our planet starts with you”.
The focus of the celebration was towards forming a personal connect between the students and
environment through a process of experience, reflection and creation.
Many students of class V participated in the elocution activity, wherein they discussed about
the importance of plants for our planet “Earth”. It was an educative and informative talk for
the students. Each student gaven the message through the speech,accompanied with attractive
props,that the planet they live in must be protected and cared for.
They stepped ahead to inspire, educate and motivate everyone to save the Earth.
Students got to learn a lot and vowed to become responsible and active crusaders of “GREEN
EARTH, CLEAN EARTH’.
Grade IV EVS-II (Science) Van Mahotsav Activity- “Role Play on Environmentalists” July 6 & 7, 2021
Van Mahotsav– Elocution Activity July 06, 2021
Van Mahotsav, a week-long festival is organized every year in thefirst week of July across India
when millions of trees are planted. In an earnest attempt to lend a green touch to the
environment, students of grade V stressed on the importance of trees by speaking on the topic
“Protecting our planet starts with you”.
The focus of the celebration was towards forming a personal connect between the students and
environment through a process of experience, reflection and creation.
Many students of class V participated in the elocution activity, wherein they discussed about
the importance of plants for our planet “Earth”. It was an educative and informative talk for
the students. Each student gaven the message through the speech,accompanied with attractive
props,that the planet they live in must be protected and cared for.
They stepped ahead to inspire, educate and motivate everyone to save the Earth.
Students got to learn a lot and vowed to become responsible and active crusaders of “GREEN
EARTH, CLEAN EARTH’.
Class: II Special Assembly - Van Mahotasava 1st July, 2021
“Trees are poems that the earth writes upon the sky."
Celebrated in the first week of Julyin India,Van Mahotasav, also known as Forest Festival, is an
annual celebration of the plantation of trees.Celebrating the importance of trees, Van Mahotasav
was initiated in 1950 to celebrate the importance of growing and saving forests and to create
awareness about the harmful effects of deforestation.
Observing and honoring the same essence, an activity related to herbs – “Herbs Our Green
Friends” was conducted for the students of class- II on 01-07-21. The students presented a talk
show wherein they talked about remedies of the herbslike mint, coriander, basil,ginger, aloevera
etc. Most of the herbs are used on a regular basis in our kitchen and they have medicinal value
too. With this activity children also came to know about sacred herbs and their benefits which
they shared the same with their peer group. Somechildren also gave a practical demonstration of
the remedy related to the herb they had taken.
“GO GREEN” by saving forests and trees. Don’t destroy the world for your needs, plant more
saplings and help save the world from global warming. This is what Shalom Hills International
School is trying to inculcate in its students through these activities.
Grade V Environmental Day Activity June 15, 2021
World Environment Day is celebrated on June 5thevery year to appreciate the role of Mother
Nature in our lives and at the same time remind us of our duties towards it. This year the
students of Grade V participated in various activities to celebrate World Environment Day and
thoroughly enjoyed them as they learnt something new from each activity.
A choice was given to them from among three activities.Each activity was explained in detail by
their respective Science teachers.The first activity demanded them to be ‘eco-warriors’ and
state ways of how they can manage the waste of their houses to reduce it at their own level. The
second activity stated that ‘Every Drop Counts’, where the students had to show how they reuse
the wastewater from the RO filters. While the third activity mentioned steps of how the students
could make compost at home and then use it to fertilize the plants in their houses. Each student
meticulously chose an activity and uploaded pictures or videos regarding the same.
The activity focused on practical applications that the students and their family members could
make a part of their daily lives and thus make a difference to the environment.
Van Mahotsav Activities July 2020
Van Mahotsav, a week-long festival of tree plantation is organized every year in the first week
of July across India when millions of trees are planted. This movement was initiated in the year
1950 by the Union Minister for Agriculture and Food, Dr. K M Munshi.
In an earnest attempt to sensitize the students about their role in conserving the environment,
our School celebrated Van Mahotsav week from 6rd July to 8th July 2020.
The celebration was an ideal opportunity to instil the value of social responsibility in the
students towards protecting trees and forests. The focus of the celebration was towards forming
a personal connect between the students and trees through a process of experience, reflection
and creation, carried out through various activities.
Many students of classes VI- X participated in different activities. The students planted seeds,
made creative videos, wrote slogans, designed posters, and also composed poems about our earth
and how we can protect it.Another interesting activity which all the class students performed
was to make beautiful planters.
Van Mahotsav week turned out to be a great success. The events helped to bring awareness about
the green cover around us.
CBSE Cleanliness Drive for Swachh Bharat Swachhata Pakhwada- 1st- 15th September, 2019
‘Nurture Nature, Save Future Week’
In the wake of the upswing in the environmental degradation, it has become the duty of every
member of the society to contribute a little towards saving the environment.
The students of classes I-XII celebrated “GREEN SCHOOL DRIVE” – A commitment to conserve the
precious fauna’ through a plantation drive on 06th September 2019 with the motto - ‘EACH ONE
PLANT ONE’. Planting trees connected the children with nature and showed them that their small
contribution makes a big difference to the campus making it greener.
The focus of the celebration was towards forming a personal connect between the students and
environment through a process of experience, reflection and creation carried out through various
activities.
‘Paudhagiri’ 19th to 30th August 2019
The students of classes VI to XIIof Shalom Hills International School
participatedwith full zeal and enthusiasm in the Tree Plantation initiative of the Haryana Govt.
-‘Paudhagiri’.
The students were issued saplings from the school which they planted at the location of their
choice and uploaded the photograph on the ‘Paudhagiri’ App. The celebration ofPaudhagiriin
school was an ideal opportunity to inculcate personal and social responsibility in our students
towards safeguarding trees and forests. The focus of these celebrations is towards forming a
personal connect between the students and trees through a process of experience, reflection and
creation.
It was a great experience for the students.
Vanmahotsav Rally by students of Class VI & XI 30th July 2019
Under the inspiring leadership of our Founder and Chairperson Dr.
(Mrs.) Lilly George, SHIS is engaged in several environmental initiatives that seek to make its
students ‘Soldiers of Environment’. One such recent initiative was a rally taken out by the
students of Grades VI and XI, accompanied by the Science and Sports teachers, to spread
awareness about the benefits of planting trees in the vicinity and the community.
The main objective of the rally was to educate people about the importance and contribution of
trees to their environment like providing oxygen, improving air quality, climate amelioration,
conserving water, preserving soil and supporting organisms.
With this aim, the students of Shalom planted trees in and around the school premises, and took
the rally to the neighborhood. The students believe that small steps as social obligation to
plant more trees will make a difference in improving our environment.
Van Mahotsav July 29, 2019
Inspired by our environmentally conscious Founder and Chairperson Dr.
(Mrs.) Lilly George, the senior students of Shalom Hills International School, celebrated Van
Mahotsav on July 29, 2019. The celebration of Van Mahotsav in school was an ideal opportunity to
inculcate personal and social responsibility in our students towards safeguarding trees and
forests. The focus of these celebrations is towards forming a personal connect between the
students and trees through a process of experience, reflection and creation. We only have one planet and we should all do our part to
ensure that it’s protected by combining our modern ways of living with a deeper respect
and understanding of what nature provides. The way we live is a reflection of how we
feel about the natural world, and our everyday habits show how much we truly value all
the things that the Earth gives us. There is much to do when it comes to rebuilding and
protecting what’s left of natural resources and the biodiversity within our
ecosystems. In the wake of the upswing in the environmental degradation,
it has become the duty of every member of the society to contribute a little towards
saving the environment. Nature is not a place to visit. It is home.
"Educating the mind without educating the hearts is no education
at all" Aristotle “The planet is, was, and always will be stronger than us. We
can’t destroy it; if we overstep the mark, the planet will simply erase us from its surface
and carry on existing. Why don’t they start talking about not letting the planet destroy
us?” – Paulo Coelho
With the intent of instilling respect and a sense of
responsibility towards the environment, Shalom Hills International School celebrated
Vanmahotsav. The students of classes VI-VIII participated in the drive to plant saplings.
"Save the Trees, Save the Earth, We are the guardians of our
Nature’s birth..."
The students of grade XI-A were taken on an educational trip to
the Tau Devi Lal Botanical garden on 17th July 2018 to study biodiversity and gain a better
understanding of morphology of plants.
CSE (Centre for Science and environment) conducted a workshop on
August 2, 2017 for different schools to provide information about the Green School
Programmes, CSE guidelines and different tasks that are needed to be followed while
submitting the GSP report. Our school was represented by Ms.Tista and Ms.Maneesha.
“What we are doing to the forests of the world is a mirror
reflection of what we are doing to ourselves and to one another”………….…Mahatma Gandhi
With the blessings and under the competent guidance of
Founder-Managing Director, Dr. (Mrs.) Lily George, Shalom celebrated Van Mahotsav in school.
The celebration was an ideal opportunity to instill personal and social responsibility in
our students towards safeguarding our rich flora and fauna. The focus of these celebrations
is towards forming a personal connect between the students and trees through a process of
Experience, Reflection and Creation. To celebrate the Festival of Trees called ‘Van
Mahotsav’, the students of Shalom prepared themselves by first collecting the seeds, then
sowing them in sapling bags, and finally submitting the saplings of fruit bearing trees. Conserving and preserving the environment our survival depends
on, is everyone’s responsibility. Taking the initiative, the students and parents of Shalom
Hills International School pledged to keep their environment clean and to live in harmony
with Mother Nature. The parents helped by contributing the seeds of fruit trees to the
“Shalom Seed Bank” and the students of the school took up the challenge of planting all the
collected seeds. As part of the ‘Joy of Sharing’ Week celebrations, the students
of class IV visited Harmony House in Sector 17, Gurgaon on 20.12.16. The students were
accompanied by Ms. Elizabeth B. Thomas and Ms. Sangeeta Madhok. It is a school run for the
underprivileged children. The visit started with a brief introduction by the in-charge of
the house, Ms. Harpriya. She shared the vision and mission of the centre. Then the students
of SHIS interacted with the children at the centre. “Pollution is an undesirable change in the Physical,
Chemical and Biological characters of Air, Land and Water” The students of Class- IV presented a Special Assembly on 14th July’16 in the Middle Wing
Auditorium. The assembly commenced with the Lord’s Prayer followed by Shalom Mission and
Vision, News Headlines and Thought of the Week. In SHIS, Environmental Awareness is developed in the school children from the early years
and every occasion is utilized to engage them in tree-planting and other related
environmental activities. 'Van Mahotsav' – the festival of trees is a beautiful initiative
to save the environment which is undertaken in SHIS with great enthusiasm and vigour.
On this occasion the Founder and Chairperson planted a Tulsi plant to mark the beginning of the
Vanmahotsav.The students of classes VIII and XI, who had brought the saplings and Tulsi plants
planted them in the green belt area of the school and behind the middle wing area. It was a
great experience for the students. They enjoyed the activity.
PLEDGING TO PRESERVE MOTHER EARTH July 26,
2019
Understanding each person’s responsibility to contribute for the conservation of the
Earth, our environmentally conscious Founder and Chairperson, Dr. (Mrs.) Lilly George,
initiates various programmes and activities to sensitize the children towards the
environment and become sincere contributors in the endeavours to save the Earth.
Enthused by the inspiring leadership and as per the directions of Hon’ble Mr. Justice
Rajeev Sharma, the students of Shalom Hills International School, as true sentinels of
the environment, unanimously took an oath to adopt measures to protect and preserve
their environment after the tree plantation programme held in the school premises. The
Vice Principal alerted the students about the degrading environment and motivated them
to embrace a life-style of sustainable co-existence with the environment.
The students also planted saplings as an initiative towards this drive.
Vanmohatsav Organizedin Primary Wing 23 rd to
25th July 2019
Inspired by the Founder and Chairperson Dr. (Mrs.) Lilly George, who since the inception
of the Shalom Group, has unfailingly carried on the task of upgrading the environment in
and around the school through a plethora of activities The students of classes I-V
celebrated ‘Vanmahotsav 2019 – A commitment to conserve the precious fauna’ through a
plantation drive with the motto - ‘EACH ONE PLANT ONE’. Planting trees connected the
children with nature and showed them that their small contribution makes a big
difference to the campus making it greener.
The focus of the celebration was towards forming a personal connect between the students
and environment through a process of experience, reflection and creation carried out
through various activities.
Our Eco warriors took pledge to work as an effective team to save our Earth from being
stripped of its greenery and precious resources. Holding bright and vibrant placardsand
thought –provoking posters, the students enthusiastically participated in an Eco March
to the nearby areas to spread awareness about conservation of Mother Nature.
In an effort to further enhance this learning, the school actively organizes Community
Outreach Programmes to sensitize everyone on the core issues so that the change benefits
the society and nation at large. Grade IV and V students went to KanhaiVillage, Gurgaon,
with the purpose to sensitize fellow citizens about their responsibilities towards the
environment and society.
Shalom Eco Warriors showcased exemplary enthusiasm in spreading the crucial message in
the ‘Nurture Nature, Save Future Week’. They stepped ahead to inspire, educate and
motivate everyone to save the Earth.
Sharing Environmental Responsibilty November
14, 2018
Inspired and guided by our socially aware Founder and Chairperson, Dr. (Mrs.) Lilly
George, the students of grades XI and XII participated in a rally to voice their concern
regarding the conservation of the Aravalli Biodiversity Park.
Equipped with placards declaring their resolutions the students joined their 3500 peers
from many reputed schools from Gurugram to vocalise their views through slogans against the
plan of constructing a stretch of a six-lane bypass passing through the Biodiversity Park.
The students clearly declared that a healthy and thriving environment cannot be comprised in
the name of development. The Bio-diversity Park is the lungs of the city and should not be
sacrificed at any cost.
The students also submitted signed petitions to convey their environmental concerns to
the government.
Their alarm at the rising pollution levels and apathy of the concerned authorities was
also conveyed when they were interviewed regarding their views on the issue.
It is hoped that the efforts taken by the students reach the ears of the authorities and
bear fruit.
Grade V Visit to Science Park 11th - 15th
October 2018
To kindle the fire of discovery and let our young scientists turn ideas into reality and
imagination into facts, a visit to the Science Park was organised for the students of Grade
V from 10th to 15th October 2018.
The visit included a plethora of exciting activities ranging from, drawing of different
types of simple machines, experimenting with different types of forces and the concept of
fulcrum which is the pivot point on which the lever rests and pivots. The visit developed a
spirit of curiosity and discovery in the children and enabled them to understand stimulating
features about fulcrums.
For a student, SCIENCE is a Systematic approach to Connect and Investigate through Exploring
Natural phenomena, draw conclusions and evaluate the findings in a fun learning way. Hence,
the activities helped the students get a better understanding of the concept of the simple
machines taught by adopting the ‘Learning by doing’ approach.
Grade I – V: Vanmahotsav Week 23th July to
27th July 2018
We at SHIS, celebrated Vanmohatsav Week, with great fervor under the aegis of our
Founder and Chairperson, Dr. (Mrs.) Lilly George, to promote and create awareness among
students regarding preserving the bio diversity, reducing pollution and promoting
alternative sources of energy.
Shalomites totally believe in sustainable habits and try to do their bit towards
securing the Environment for the future. As an educational institution we feel that it is
our responsibility to sensitize these young minds towards our Mother Nature and its
importance. And what better way to uphold the school motto, ‘PEACE ’,’PROSPERITY’ and
‘LOVE’, than by planting saplings in the school premises.
The students participated with immense zeal and designed beautiful Magazine Covers. As part
of the school’s Community Outreach Programme, Grade V students went to Vyapar Kendra,
Gurgaon, with the purpose of sensitizing fellow citizens about their responsibilities
towards environment and society. They urged the people to join the initiative and asked
their opinion on how they can contribute towards a sustainable city. Shalomites were given
an opportunity to showcase and express their myriad talents through series of green
activities conducted during the week.
The objective of conducting Vanmohatsav Week was to reinforce and bring alive the Spirit
of respecting the environment.
Plantation Drive August 1, 2018
The students gathered near the entrance of the school to plant the saplings they had
brought to the school. Each student was given three saplings to plant, which they took to
the Green belt area in front of the school. With the help of Science teachers, they planted
the saplings and took an oath to take care of the plants every day.
The students displayed great enthusiasm in helping a hand to preserve and rejuvenate
the environment.
Grade v Slogan Writing Activity : Van Mahotsav
25th July 2018
In an earnest attempt to lend a green touch to the school environment and sensitize
the students about their role in conserving it, a Hindi Slogan Writing Activity was
conducted in Grade V on 25th July, 2018, to celebrate the festival of Trees -‘’VAN
MAHOTSAV’’.
The celebration was an ideal opportunity to instil the value of social responsibility
in the students towards safeguarding trees and forests. The focus of the celebration was
towards forming a personal connect between the students and trees through a process of
experience, reflection and creation. All the students wrote slogans on the given topic and
were well appreciated for their work.
Each slogan had an eco-friendly message like ‘use paper bags’, ‘save earth’, ‘save
water’, ‘do not waste electricity’ etc., leaving everyone pondering over environmental
issues and raising awareness about the benefits of plantation.
It was an educative and informative session for the students. Students got to learn a
lot and will always cherish the memories of this important occasion.
Grade XI Students Visit Biodiversity Park July
17, 2018
They explored a variety of plant species and gained insights about various kinds of
gymnosperms, their leaf modifications, roots etc. The students collected various species of
flowers for their herbarium and saw different kinds of inflorescences.
Palmate leaves, compound leafed clovers, simple leaves with different kinds of
venations and arrangements helped them understand the major morphological characters of the
leaves. Observing the pale colored leaves helped them understand about leucoplasts and other
pigments in the leaf.
The students gained interesting insights about the arrangement of reproductive organs of the
plants etc.
Seed dispersion was another intriguing part of their observations as they saw live
pollination and dispersal by bees, insects and wind.
Various types of different colored insects and bugs helped them understand the process
of attraction to colorful and pompous flowers.
The experience was enriching and indeed educating since all the students were able to
learn something new about plants and their growth along with being awe struck at the
gorgeously colorful birds, which was a bonus.
Green School Programme Workshop
The workshop started with a briefing by Ms. Ranjeeta Menon about the Centre for Science
and Environment. Then Ms. Ajanta took over and explained the online portal of GSP. She
guided everyone through the audit criteria and different sections of GSP protocol with the
help of PPT. After the briefing a short tour of the CSE campus was given showing their 5
types Segregation Systems, Rain Water Harvesting System, and their Decentralized Sewage
Treatment Plant and Mechanical Compost Pit. She explained the need of the audit submission
on time and also emphasised the importance of sensitizing the students on environment
related issues.
External speakers from a private waste management firm “POM-POM” were also present there
who explained about their motto and how they are helping us to manage our school`s waste.
Ms. Ajanta finally read a performance report stating the points that are important for
scoring good marks in the GSP Audit. The workshop culminated with the Certificate
distribution ceremony. The workshop was an interesting interactive session and helped in
clarifying all the audit and report submission related doubts.
As the saying goes- “We don’t inherit the Earth from our ancestors but borrow it from
our Children”. With this thought in mind we take a pledge to do all we can to save the
planet.
Van Mahotsav Week Organized in Primary Wing
Grades – I to V from 24th July to 28th July 2017
We, at SHIS celebrated Van Mahotsav Week, with great fervor under the aegis of Dr. Lilly
George, Founder-Managing Director, SHIS.
We also believe that science and scientific knowledge greatly influence the progress of
a nation and quality of life of its citizens. Promoting scientific temperament in students
and developing a rational perspective is given utmost importance here.
Keeping the same in view, our young environmentalists have been active on the scientific
front, educating, promoting and laying their duties sensibly. Day 1 activity conducted
served its purpose to educate the children about the impact of human activities on Earth and
how they can help to save it for themselves and the future generations to cherish and
treasure.
The young students even distributed handmade paper bags and urged people to do their bit
to save the environment by planting saplings and hence making a small contribution to make
this world a better place.
The children and the teachers took a pledge to sensitize people in their vicinity about
the importance of trees and how we can save the Earth from destruction and work towards
conserving it.
They spoke about innovative ideas for sustainable development without jeopardizing the
non-renewable resources. They particularly stressed on the imperative need for banning
plastics, its harmful effects and requested people in the market place to say ‘No to
plastics’.
During the week-long event, the students were trained about how to make the best out of
waste. In the process they learnt to make a Photo frame from newspapers. We also organised a
green March and community outreach programme to spread awareness to the residents,
shopkeepers, menial workers and junior students. The young Citizens promoted ideas Like -
Benefits of Afforestation, Stopping the use of Plastic Bags, Working towards reducing
pollution etc.
Students left no stones unturned in creating awareness about their topic by using
placards and raising slogans. They urged the people to join their initiative and asked their
opinion on how they can contribute towards a better society through feedback forms. The week
ended with the creative minds pouring out their imagination on paper by making posters on
the topic ‘ Go Green – Save Earth’.
The objective of conducting Van Mahotsav Week was to reinforce the belief in the young
Shalomites that it is only them who can make the difference by taking such small initiatives
which can turn into a revolution and hence benefit them in the longer run.
As the saying goes- “We don’t inherit the Earth from our ancestors but borrow it from
our Children”. With this thought in mind we take a pledge to do all we can to save the
planet.
Shalom Celebrates Van Mahotsav
The students segregated the seeds and the saplings according to the names put on the
posters. The students who showed interest in bringing fruit tree saplings were called for
segregation of fruit tree seeds and saplings.
On this occasion MD Ma’am herself led by example and planted a sapling in the Kitchen garden
area. She asked every student to touch, feel and sense the plants.
It was a great experience for the students. They willingly and enthusiastically participated
in the activity and enjoyed it.
Shalom Seed Bank: A Parent- Student Initiative
First they separated the collected seeds like Mango, Jamun, Litchies, Apricot, Apples,
oranges etc. Then the soil was prepared by mixing it with vermicompost, which is made in the
school. The manure mixed soil was filled in the bags provided to them, which were then
arranged in the respective places where the seeds were to be sown.
Finally, the students sowed the seeds in the bags, watered them. They vowed to maintain them
to protect our biodiversity, replenish the Water Cycle, minimize Soil Erosion, improve air
quality and at large reduce “GLOBAL WARMING”.
Students of Grade VI visit a home for
underprivileged on 20th Dec’16
In the ice-breaking session, the students at the Harmony House had to find a friend from
Shalom students and they had to share a special quality they possessed in common. All the
children joined in whole-heartedly in this fun game. The young Shalomites presented songs,
recited poems and also gifted them with clothes and stationery items. Much to everyone’s
delight, the children at the house also showcased their talent through dance, songs and
poems. It was an extremely interactive session as the students established a great rapport
with each other.
Pollution Awareness Rally by students of Class
IX & X on 11th Nov’16
In Gurugram, the high levels of pollution were caused due to the cumulative effect of
increase in the pollutants, bursting of fire crackers, dip in temperature and slow wind
speed. Under the inspiring vision and leadership of Dr Lilly George, the Founder-Managing,
SHIS is engaged in several ‘green’ and environmental initiatives that seek to make its
students ‘Green Soldiers’.
One such recent initiative was a rally taken out by the students of Grades IX-X accompanied
by the Science and Sports teachers to spread awareness about Air Pollution in the vicinity
and the community. The main objective of the rally was to educate people about proper way of
protecting themselves from the particulate matters present in the atmosphere. The students
covered their mouth and nose with masks and carried placards and posters with messages on
how to protect themselves from smog. The students also took a solemn pledge to educate the
members of their community and endeavour to preserve the surroundings.
Special Assembly on Vanmahotsav by Grade IV on
14th July’2016
A video on the topic (Vanmahotsav) was shown, which highlighted the importance of forests in
our lives and harmful effects of deforestation. The students of class IV A and F presented a
skit while the students of IV E presented a Hindi song on environment. The talented juniors
of Class – IV G presented amazing facts related to forests followed by Shalom Anthem and
National Anthem.
A Quiz was conducted to check the understanding of the students (audience). Ms. Suniti Bhai,
Coordinator I-IV was present there to encourage all the participants and appreciated them
for their wonderful performance.
Poster Making Activity on ‘Save Me and My
Environment’ held for Class V students on 12nd July’16
A Poster Making Activity on the occasion of Van Mohatsav was organized for Grade V students.
Generally, native trees are planted as they readily adapt to the local conditions, integrate
into eco-systems and have a high survival rate. Besides, such trees are helpful in
supporting local birds, insects and animals as well.
The intrepid students participated with immense zeal and made beautiful posters which gave
the message ‘ How we can save our environment and provide a greener environment to our
future generations'.
The posters made by the young Shalomites also were an eye-opener as they served as a tool to
spread awareness of trees among people and portray the need of planting and tending to
trees.
The activity also helped in strengthening the bond between plants, animals and children.
Go Green - Our choice and creed
When the going gets tough, the tough go green
At Shalom Hills International School, we believe that there is only choice in life - that is the right choice. We teach our students to choose environmental responsibility over any other i.e to 'think, be and go green' all the time. For this reason, the school engages its students in several projects, campaigns, crusades as part of its abiding 'Go Green' commitment.
The various green school activities taken up by school are:
- Green school sustainability programme in association with IIM Ahemabad and ecoslate
- Green school programme for waste , air, water, land carbon foot print audit
- Go Green drive by Interact Club
- Save Environment campaign
- Save Electricity campaign
INTERACTIVE SESSION WITH MR. ANANDA MENON HELD ON 18th APRIL’16
PROJECT - GREEN RHINO SHALOMITES
SHIS has joined Green Rhino which is an ecological programme on Nature Conservation making rapid in
roads, among various schools across the country. Its mission is to create, educate and motivate
young minds to preserve and conserve the rich biodiverty.On 18TH April 2016, Mr. Ananda Menon, a
National Coordinator for Green Rhino and a keen Nature Specialist who has also worked on Nature
Conservation in Sunderbans, West Bengal, interacted with the school’s Green Rhino team members and
learnt about the progress of the project. The teacher representatives, Ms Ambika Yadav and Ms Richa
Jaini shared valuable ideas and approaches with Mr. Menon and students.
We all know about environment but our knowledge goes in vain if we are unable to sensitize others
about the cause on Conservation. It was with this approach of making a difference in our society
that some of our students aim to be active citizens by visiting nearby slums for an awareness drive
or starting an online petition against the cutting down of trees. Mr. Memon was quite impressed with
the progress made and students’ efforts in the project. .
1. In-House Green school programme
Bearing in mind that environmental challenges are growing and also that they can be met and countered if each one of us is aware and involved, Shalom Hills International School has a concurrent and on-going Green House Programme. As a part of it, the school children have realized that we all need to change the way we manage natural resources; alter our consumption patterns so that we can do more with less; and innovate with current technologies so that we can improve the environment around us.
The benefits of GPS can be felt at multiple levels
- It acts as a tool to explore, identify & document the living resources which exist within the school premises.
- The audit process helps the school community to draw up a roadmap for sustainable development.
- Also, GSP is a self-assessment program. It helps in the school audit, the use of school resources and maps out their consumption and wastage. The exercise involves collection of information under the following heads - Water, land, energy, waste and air
IMPLEMENTATION OF PROGRAMME
- Formation of audit teams from class VI to X
- Fixing the task under each category
- Implementation of task
- Compiling the results
- Preparing green school report card
- Give suggestive measure for improving green measures in school
2. Sustainable Development through Green School Programme in association with Eco Slate and IIM, Ahmedabad
"To make choices that helps us to satisfy our needs for survival without compromising on the ability of next generation to do the same"
In order to inculcate an abiding respect for the above values in every Shalomite, the
school has started with Green School Programme in association with IIM, Ahmedabad.
The whole purpose of the programme is that it helps the students to gain:
- A skill for lifetime which will enable them to make smarter decisions in life and move forward faster
- Ability to adapt to the emerging green economy and contribute back to society
| Topic Covered | ||
|---|---|---|
| S.No. | Sustainability Element | Outcome |
| 1 | Waste and Food | Waste Audit and a Food Audit report of the school |
| 2 | Water and Air | Water Audit and Indoor Air Quality report will be prepared for the school |
| 3 | Carbon Footprint | A Carbon Footprint Audit report of the school |
| 4 | Energy Audit | An energy audit report of the school |
Waste and food
- Through a series of activities and games, the students were made to realize how food is the basic need required for survival of human being. Apart from that, it was made clear that in a country like India that is ridden and beset with exist social inequities, people from urban area have access to good food but they are little irresponsible when it comes to consumption and often waste the same.
- The school children were made aware about the social situation wherein a lot of wastage is happening and how they too as individual can contribute in minimizing wasteful consumption of food. Small effort from our side can bring big changes.
- Students were also given assignment to record their meal and check the wastage of food happening at their homes. Thus, the children were sensitized and they came back with reports on how much food was being wasted and how they were taking care to reduce it.
- The students were also explained as how climate change in last 10 years has affected our food production. So they were sensitized about how they can contribute for greener and better environment today for a better tomorrow.
- Every product we consume has its life cycle right from its production to disposal so LCA assessment is very important. LCA is a technique to assess the environmental impacts associated with all the stages of a product life, and therefore the role we can play at every stage.
- The students were also sensitized as how many miles the food which we eat has travelled before reaching our plate and hence they gained insight into the effect of environmental conditions on distribution and packaging of food.
- While we are willing to go green, it is the lack of knowledge and understanding of the systems that stops us from making sustainable choices. The students were then told about a tool which can simplify the decision making process and help all to manage our resources and lifestyle better. That tool is known as the Carbon Footprint.
- What is Carbon Footprint?:The students were given the formula and each element of the formula was explained to them.
Carbon Footprint = Output of an activity x Emission Factor of that Activity
3.Campaigns by Shalom Interactors
The members of the school's elite Rotary Interact Club which is a part of Rotary International exhibit their deep-seated commitment to the cause of a 'Green n Clean Environment' by initiating a 'Clean up campaign' in Gurgaon.
3.a. - Clean up the bazaars - One particular clean up campaign was organized by the
young students when they took upon themselves to educate and sensitize the vendors and green grocers
about the imperative need to reduce wastage and to dispose off waste properly.
Undeterred by the dreary and overcast sky and a hibernating sun, the youngsters laden with paper
bags and high spirits went up to the fruit and vegetable vendors in Civil Lines, Gurgaon. They
educated them about the need to keep the surroundings where they live and work hygienic and clean.
They handed over the utilitarian paper bags prepared by Grade V students to the green grocers and
vegetable sellers, thus exhorting them to practically say a 'No to plastic bags'. The students
placed placards and slogans highlighting the urgent need to clean up the environment at strategic
points and positions in Civil Lines.
The Gen-X of the school lived up to Gandhiji's immortal words 'we must be the change we wish to see
around us' by clearing up the littering fruit peels and rotten vegetables lying scattered around the
area, the youngsters influenced the bystanders and others in the vicinity to also join in and clean
up the debris. The students set an example before the grown-ups by wearing cloth aprons and
protecting their hands with sterilized gloves thereby give a practical demonstration of how waste
materials should also be disposed off in a hygienic and effectual manner.
4. Cyber Fair Waste Management project -
The students of Shalom Hills International School became the only ones in Delhi NCR
region to win the Platinum Award for International Cyber Fair (an American State Government endorsed
programme. This is an award-winning authentic learning program which allows the students across the
world to conduct research on topics of general or social interest and publish their findings on the
Web. American State government endorsed program affords an international interface to the youth to
connect with the global world by working collaboratively, using technology to collate their findings
and share with the world through self-designed web-sites.
The intrepid and environmentally committed team of 18 students of Shalom Hills engaged in a brain
friendly and e-learning project on the environment livewire topic of 'Waste Mismanagement in
Gurgaon'. Their project with its compelling title 'Waiting for the signal to turn green' has
enhanced the students' knowledge of and sensitivity towards environmental issues. The youthful
team-members, in the process of collaborative working, developed team coordination, improved their
communicative competencies and enriched their content know-how in Science and Environmental Studies.
They acquired the much desired sense of civic responsibility and international mindedness, thus
acquiring traits necessary for their role as global citizens and community ambassadors in the coming
years. Shalomites exhibited their 'world is one' perspective by 'thinking globally and acting
locally.'
a. Adopt a crossroad
Shalom students involved in a tree plantation near the Crossroads junction.
When the students of Shalom Hills International School take up a cause, they do it in full throttle
and render more than full justice to it. Taking up the cause of making their city green and clean,
they have adopted the crossroads junction near the school in collaboration with an NGO Uttaan. The
plucky students have made themselves responsible for the maintenance and development of the area.
Frequently, the senior graders along with their Teacher incharges visit the cross-roads and immerse
themselves in clearing up and beautifying the area.
b. Vermiculture
To ensure environmental sustainability in the school and employ all the possible measures of waste
management, a vermipit has been created in Shalom Hills International School by the Cyberians. The
idea is to teach children about reducing and recycling of waste. All the kitchen waste is dumped
here and earthworms are put, which converts this waste in to manure of excellent quality.
Paper Mache and Wealth out of Waste activities
The school's Cyber Fair team also decided to involve their fellow students in a paper mache
activity. Believing in 'Practice what you preach', they made recycling old newspapers the agenda of
their regular project and decided to involve all the classes and fellow-students in the worthy cause
of waste management and environment conservation.
The Cyber Fair children brought heaps of discarded newspapers to the school and also
brought along multani mitti (the reason for adding multani mitti is that it acts as an adhesive; a
binder). Prior to this they had been meshing the papers for the last three days and so they were
ready for use during for the activity.
The Cyberians distributed this pulp to all the childen who subsequently mixed fevicol to it.
Amidst excited laughter and merriment, the pulp was then scrunched and meshed yet again and the
following creations were crafted from the pulp.
- Some groups spread it on thin plastic sheet and got recycled paper
- Some children applied mache on balloons and made beautiful designs on them
- Yet another set of students crafted beautiful show pieces like photo frame, ganesha idol, spheres, mountain, volcano, snow man.
- A few creative geniuses used their imagination and applied it on cardboard cut-outs, then painted and coloured them.
5. Say No to Crackers
The 'Say No to Crackers' campaigns by Shalom students go beyond the conventional
trappings and lip service; they are thoughtfully planned and serve to sensitize the children and
through them the community about the life of brutality and danger that the poor children lead while
working in factories making firecrackers. These campaigns are a sincere attempt on the behalf of the
school to bring a sense of realization in the society as to how these children get victimized.
Through posters, cards promoting Green Diwali, thematic paintings, slogans and catchy captions on
'Save Environment', 'Go-Green', 'Abolishing Child labour', 'Noise Pollution', 'Air Pollution', 'Harm
to animals and birds' and 'Disturbance to the elderly and babies' the students of Shalom Hills
International School have tried their best to spread awareness among their fellow-students and
society for the imperative need to stop bursting crackers and have highlighted the far-reaching
repercussions on man, animals and environment alike.