Media Release
Mangaluru, Sep 25: The Department of Botany and Internal Quality Assurance Cell (IQAC) of St Agnes College (Autonomous), in collaboration with the Karnataka Biodiversity Board, organized a national workshop on ‘Folk and flora: Tradition and conservation’ on Wednesday, September 17.
The workshop was inaugurated in a unique and symbolic manner by Bibijan of Bibi Fathima SHG, from Theertha village, Dharwad District, who ground leaves of medicinal plants in a mortar, blending heritage with learning and setting the stage for an enriching experience.
The inaugural ceremony was graced by Govardhan Singh M J, deputy conservator of Forests, Karnataka Biodiversity Board, Government of Karnataka, as the esteemed guest of honour. Sr Dr Venissa AC, principal of St Agnes College (Autonomous), Mangaluru, presided over the function, while Sr Carmel Rita, college administrator, added her distinguished presence to the occasion.
Dr Soniya Marsi Lobo, convenor of the national workshop, delivered the welcome address, providing an insightful background on the workshop's objectives and significance.
Bibijan was honored by the workshop organizer for her remarkable win of the UNDP Equator Prize 2025, celebrating the Bibi Fathima SHG's contributions to biodiversity conservation, millet promotion, and women's empowerment.
Bibijan in her inaugural address mentioned that Bibi Fathima Self Help Group was formed by 15 women in 2018, the SHG has introduced millet-based mixed cropping on rain fed farms, empowered women, promoted climate-resilient farming systems, practiced livestock rearing and horticulture, and popularized millets at the village level. This work has simultaneously ensured both nutritional security and income stability. The Bibi Fatima SHG has prioritized the conservation of indigenous crop varieties that fare better during climate extremes.
On this occasion, the BSc Botany students' community, 'Chiguru,' was officially inaugurated by the guest of honour, Govardhan Singh M J, marking a significant milestone for the botany students. In his address, he highlighted the pressing need for biodiversity conservation and safeguarding food quality, underscoring their significance for a sustainable future.
Sr Dr Venissa AC, in her presidential address, emphasized the importance of conserving medicinal plants and preserving traditional knowledge. The dignitaries on the dais were then felicitated with mementos and floral saplings as a token of respect and appreciation. Dr Nivya V M delivered the vote of thanks, bringing the proceedings to a gracious close.
The valedictory session marked the successful conclusion of a dynamic and insightful event that brought together leading experts, researchers, academicians and students from Karnataka and Kerala. The workshop aimed to foster dialogue, and encourage collaborative efforts to conserve and sustainably manage biodiversity and traditional medicine system.
Dr Ita D’Souza, associate professor of Chemistry, St Agnes College, Mangaluru graced the event as chief guest and delivered an insightful address, emphasizing the crucial role of green chemistry in driving sustainable development and reducing environmental footprint. She advocated for the adoption of innovative, eco-friendly chemical processes that minimize harm to the planet and its inhabitants.
Dr Vishala B K, chief librarian, St Agnes College, Mangaluru, inspired student participants as the guest of honour, urging them to apply the workshop's insights in practical ways and use the modern tools and techniques to excel academically and professionally. The vice principal of St Agnes College graced the valedictory function.