St Aloysius PU College Students Experience Traditional Farming Through Paddy Transplantation Programme
Mangaluru: The Department of Languages of St Aloysius Pre-University College, Mangaluru, organised an experiential learning programme titled “Bonding with the Soil, Breathing with Nature” at a paddy field in Gantalkatte, Moodbidri. The initiative aimed to promote environmental awareness while reconnecting students with the region’s rich agricultural heritage.
The programme was inaugurated by Mrs Alwyn Menezes and Mrs Anuitha Menezes, who symbolically handed over paddy seedlings to Mrs Janet Pinto, Head of the Department of Languages. The event began with participants entering the paddy field behind a pair of bullocks yoked to a plough, accompanied by melodious traditional Tulu folk songs, creating an authentic rural atmosphere.
Mr Melvin Menezes, the owner of the paddy field and a progressive farmer, along with Mrs Anita Menezes, introduced the students to the significance of agriculture and sustainable farming practices. They demonstrated the techniques of paddy transplantation and guided the participants through the process, providing valuable hands-on experience in traditional cultivation.
Adding a cultural dimension to the programme, Mrs Akshatha Kudla, Lecturer in Kannada, rendered traditional Tulu narrative folk songs (Paddana) as students enthusiastically transplanted the paddy seedlings. The activity enabled participants to appreciate the deep-rooted relationship between culture, agriculture, and nature.
The paddy field owners were felicitated in recognition of their generous support and contribution to the programme. Students later shared their reflections, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to experience the hard work and dedication of farmers while gaining a deeper appreciation for traditional agricultural practices.
More than 50 students participated in the programme along with lecturers Ms Shirley Reema D’Souza, Mr Shane Pereira, and Ms Indushree R.
Mrs Janet Pinto, Head of the Department of Languages, welcomed the gathering and outlined the objectives of the programme, while Mr Mark Richard Pereira, Lecturer in French, compered the proceedings.
The initiative successfully blended experiential learning, environmental consciousness, and cultural appreciation, inspiring students to value sustainable agriculture and develop greater respect for the farming community.
