By OUR STAFF REPORTER
Dehradun, 1 Apr: Students of Doon University embarked on a transformative journey during the Namami Gange Swachhata Pakhwada, 2024, by engaging in a 24-hour intensive ‘Cleanathon’. Recognising the limitations of traditional, short-term cleaning activities, the university opted for a more profound approach. Rather than mere surface-level tidying, it sought to cultivate enduring behavioural shifts among individuals to uphold cleanliness standards in their campuses and beyond.
Drawing upon the principles of behaviour change and design thinking, the students delved into a spectrum of initiatives to address persistent issues like littering and graffiti. Embracing innovation, they crafted solutions aimed at fostering a culture of cleanliness that would endure long after the conclusion of the Pakhwada. Utilising mediums such as posters, banners and slogans, they embarked on a mission to sensitise their peers and the wider campus community.
In their quest to infuse the environment with reminders of cleanliness, the students adorned the campus with vibrant murals and striking slogans, ensuring that the message of cleanliness remained omnipresent. This concerted effort reflected their commitment to embedding cleanliness as an intrinsic value within the fabric of campus life.
Guided by Vice Chancellor Professor Surekha Dangwal, Registrar Dr Mangal Singh Mandrawal, and Dean of the School of Design, Professor RP Mamgain, along with the Head of the Design Department, Dhriti Dhaundiyal, the students toiled tirelessly through the night, surpassing the 24-hour mark to fulfil their designated tasks. Their unwavering dedication and collaborative spirit underscored their resolve to effect meaningful change.
As the event drew to a close, participants were not only recognised with certificates of participation but also celebrated for their unwavering commitment and sincere efforts. Their collective endeavour stood as a testament to the power of community-driven action in fostering lasting change.
In the words of Mahatma Gandhi, “Be the change you wish to see in the world.” Through their exemplary initiative and tireless endeavours, the students of Doon University embodied this ethos, serving as catalysts for a cleaner, more sustainable future.
In embracing the ethos of the Namami Gange Swachhata Pakhwada, the students of Doon University not only tackled immediate challenges but also laid the foundation for a legacy of environmental stewardship and civic responsibility. They stand poised to continue their crusade for a cleaner, more vibrant world, one innovative idea and transformative action at a time.
