Doon varsity organizes collection camp promoting sustainability and community welfare
In an inspiring display of community engagement and sustainability efforts, the Doon University’s Department of Social Work joined hands with Goonj NGO to host a two-day collection camp and collected used clothes, books and other materials from residents of university and nearby areas for distribution among the needy sections of society.
Themed “Don’t wrap your clothes, donate them,” the camp aimed at encouraging donations of unused clothing, books, and other materials as the winter season draws to a close. Students approached residents and passers-by, explained them the purpose of such camps and requested for donations. In this drive they were supported by the university administration and faculty members.
University Vice Chancellor Prof Surekha Dangwal had a word of appreciation and encouragement for students involved in organizing the event. “This act by the students of Department of Social Work, Doon University, is a noble initiative and its relevance is beyond charity. It’s a step towards environmental cause, sustainability and a way of connecting with and reaching out to the larger community. This initiative is part of a series of activities by university students that would inculcate a sense of social responsibility among them which is also one of the objectives of the National Education Policy,” Prof Dangwal said.
The event, strategically located at the gates of the Doon University, attracted enthusiastic participation from students, faculty, staff, and members of the surrounding community. Participants generously contributed clothes and books, embodying the spirit of giving and community welfare.
Students shared their new-found enthusiasm for repurposing unwearable clothes, attributing it to the inception of the Goonj cloth collection camp at the university. They have begun collecting and storing such items for donation, contributing to the success of the initiative.
In addition to donations, Goonj NGO showcased upcycled items crafted from donated clothes at its production unit in Rishikesh. The NGO also offered books for purchase at half the regular price, emphasizing its commitment to promoting access to education.
On this occasion, Dr. Priyanka Pahwa highlighted the importance of repurposing unused items for the betterment of society. “Every household has items that serve no purpose to us but can greatly benefit others,” Dr. Pahwa said, while encouraging individuals to contribute to environmental sustainability through donations.
Prof Harsh Dobhal echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the significance of collective action in creating positive change. “By participating in this camp, we have demonstrated our commitment to sustainable practices and humanitarian efforts,” he said.
Prof H C Purohit said that by donating your clothes and other used items for charity, one is not only helping the needy but also hugely contributing to environment, sustainability and economy.
On this occasion Dean of School of Social Sciences Prof R P Mamgain, Dr Naresh Mishra, Dr Rakesh Bhatt, Sandeep Rawat, Himanshu Kuksal, Manoj Rawat, Sanjeev Rawat, Abhinav Joshi and a number of students, research scholars and faculty and administrative staff remembers were present.