Adopting a tree and nurturing it: 'Shaka Sanga' goes to schools

by Ramani Kangaraarachchi

The Ex-Army Women's Association who joined the "Shaka Sanga" Group last Poson Poya Day launched their pilot project by extending it to schools to coincide with the "World Environment Day" and "Universal Children's Day".

Students of Mahanama College Colombo and Sri Jayawardenapura Maha Vidyalaya Kotte, parents and teachers were invited to the "Thotupala Adventure Park" by the Shaka Sanga Group and Ex-Army Women's Association not to plant trees but to adopt them followed by an oath. A unique concept of Chairman "Wild Holidays " Major Vijith Welikala to adopt one million trees to increase Sri Lanka's forest cover which is diminishing rapidly.

Under this concept students were enlightened about the danger before them and were taught to adopt a plant the way their mother's bring them up affectionately until they become adults. The plants should be looked after throughout its growth and monitored until the trees mature.

Environmentalist T. G. Mahesh Priyadarshana and Eco Adventure Specialist A. Pius of Shaka Sanga Group explained to the children the phenomenon of global warming which will cause a further sea level rise before the end of the century causing loss of land and displacing a large number of people.

During the day, the children enjoyed various activities and provided with a sumptuous lunch. They were taught in meditation form to thank nature and everyone who contributed to prepare the meal.

Anusha Wickramaratna and Vijitha Sirisuriya who are members of the association as well as parents co-ordinated with the schools.