Date: 27 07 2024

On a beautiful day filled with enthusiasm and dedication to environmental conservation, the Lanka Mangrove Museum combined with “Together with Mangroves” kids and youth society organized an event to highlight their ongoing projects and collaborative efforts.

The event featured a series of activities and presentations that underscored the importance of mangrove planting, reforestation, and other environmental initiatives. This event was graced by the participation of Mrs. Karen Peterson, Senior Manager of Special Initiatives, Seacology and Dr. Leela Padmini Batuwitage Sri Lanka Field Representative, Seacology

Planting Mangroves: A Symbol of Hope

The event kicked off with the planting of mangrove plants. Leela madam and Karen madam each planted two mangrove plants, symbolizing their commitment to environmental preservation. Following their lead, the kids and youth from the “Together with Mangroves” society planted two additional mangrove plants. This act of planting not only emphasized the significance of mangroves in coastal ecosystems but also highlighted the collective effort required to ensure a sustainable future.

Inspiring Presentations on Environmental Projects

Karen Madam delivered an insightful presentation on the various Seacology projects, including mangrove projects, reforestation efforts, and seagrass planting initiatives. She shared stories of children from different islands who are actively involved in these projects, showcasing the global impact of environmental conservation. Her presentation served as a reminder of the interconnectedness of our ecosystems and the importance of collaborative efforts across regions.

Ms. Rajini followed with a presentation about the accomplishments of the “Together with Mangroves” kids. She highlighted the numerous activities and projects the society has undertaken so far, including their efforts in raising awareness about the importance of mangroves and their hands-on involvement in conservation activities. Her presentation was a testament to the dedication and hard work of the young members of the society.

Fun and Educational Activities with the Kids

After the presentations, it was time for some fun and educational activities. The kids introduced a game of icebreaker BINGO, which helped everyone get to know each other better and set a lively tone for the rest of the day. They then demonstrated how to use binoculars and led a short field visit around the Lanka Mangrove Museum premises and the nearby mangrove reserve forest, providing a hands-on learning experience about the local flora and fauna.

The kids also explained the game of Scrabble and its educational benefits, followed by a practical demonstration on using microscopes and how to plant a specimen. These activities not only made learning fun but also instilled a deeper understanding of the natural world and the importance of scientific inquiry.

Lunch and a Scenic Boat Ride

After a morning filled with planting, presentations, and educational activities, everyone enjoyed a well-deserved lunch. The meal provided an opportunity for participants to relax, network, and reflect on the day’s activities.

The event concluded with a scenic boat ride for Leela Madam, Karen Madam, Mr. Duglas, Ms. Rajini, and other attendees. The boat ride offered a serene and picturesque view of the mangrove ecosystem, reinforcing the day’s theme of environmental conservation and the beauty of nature.