As an initiative to create awareness on the importance of caring for the environment the MJF Centre, Moratuwa invited renowned environmentalist, Dr Ajantha Perera to conduct a workshop at the Centre. Students and staff of Diri Daru Piyasa, Computer Graphics, MJF Kids, the janitorial and minor staff of the Centre were all present that day. In total there were 103 participants.
Through a child friendly and interactive workshop, Dr Ajantha, a pleasant and amiable personality, highlighted that personal wealth is measured neither by a car, a house nor other material possessions but by accessibility to pure water, air and soil. Having brought their attention through visual images to “garbage mountains” that have been in existence for over 30 years, she stressed that we must act in a more responsible manner to keep our environment clean.
The audience was requested not to undermine the value of the environment as it provides for us air to breath, water to drink and soil to grow our food crops. Therefore, each individual has a duty to perform in protecting the air, water and soil.
The students of Diri Daru Piyasa, the centre for differently able children were very enthusiastic in coming forward and expressing themselves which touched the hearts of all those who were present that day.
Dr Ajantha reiterated the importance of being appreciative for whatever we have and to always say thank you by words and by action. The children, in unison, said a big “Thank You” to the water and air that they are blessed with. She also made the children understand that taking care of the environment by proper disposal of rubbish is one of the ways of showing gratitude to mother nature.
At the end of the workshop, Dr Ajantha invited the students to entertain the audience with a few songs.
The sinhala word “prathichakriya karanaya” which means “Recycling” was originated by Dr Ajantha when she was instrumental in developing the National Program on the Recycling of Solid Waste in Sri Lanka.
As a token of appreciation to the MJF Charitable Foundation, Dr Ajantha humbly requested that all the students who attend the centre embark on a tree planting campaign by contributing a tree and by maintaining the tree, themselves. She also requested the children that they avoid using plastic shopping bags as it is harmful to the environment. As an alternative she suggested they use cloth bags.
Dr Ajantha’s wit and humour and interactivity grabbed the attention and enthusiasm of all who were present. On a final note, Dr Ajantha expressed her interest in working with our students on a more regular basis.