Equipped with garbage bags, gloves, and caps, the students of V. M. Salgaocar Institute of International Hospitality Education (VMSIIHE), Raia under the guidance of Nelissa Alcasoas, Asst. Professor General Management got together to clean up a portion of Benaulim beach that was littered with garbage.
“The beach cleaning drive helped the students to understand the importance of the environment to the society and stakeholders of the Institute. The Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) program of the institute helps students cultivate a philanthropic approach towards society”, said Alcasoas.
The students of VMSIIHE study the nuances of Corporate Social Responsibility and Business Ethics as a part of their Management curriculum. Goa being a hub for tourism, the institute felt it was apt to take up a program linked to the environment to spread awareness of the importance of waste segregation and waste disposal. Over the course of the morning, the students collected litter-strewn at the beach and proceeded to segregate the waste into four categories: plastic, glass, wet waste, and paper.
“Going on the field and segregating and collecting waste was an eye-opening experience. We observed how bad the condition of the environment is and how much damage, negligence from the general public can cause. We have to cherish and take care of the pristine beaches and lush greenery God has given us here in Goa”, said Emerald Monteiro, a student.
“Only when you pick up garbage do you realize the importance of keeping the beaches clean. Mother Nature is common to all of us and we must take care of her”, adds Alcasoas.