Mysore University VC releases books ‘Environmental Studies’ and ‘Life Skills’ 

Mysore/Mysuru: Environment pollution is responsible for whatever ups and downs which are going on in society and this can be addressed by creating awareness in younger generation, opined Prof. G. Hemantha Kumar, Vice-Chancellor (VC), University of Mysore (UoM).

He was speaking after releasing the book ‘Environmental Studies’ written by Dr. S. Mamata Sathyanarayana, Head, Department of Environmental Studies, DePaul Degree College, Dr. S. Ravi Kiran, Head, Department of Biochemistry, Aurora’s Degree College, Nellore, Hyderabad, Telangana, Dr. B.S. Ravikumar, Head, Department of Botany and Environmental Studies, AVK College, Hassan and first and second volumes of ‘Life Skill’ written by Dr. S. Ravi Kiran and Dr. B.S. Ravikumar at Crawford Hall here recently.

The VC said that the study of environment has gained importance of late after the Supreme Court passed several orders to check environment pollution and consequent to several Legislations passed by the Government of India. 

The book ‘Environmental Studies’ has been written keeping the University Grants Commission (UGC) syllabus in mind and this must reach all students. This will be a biggest gift that they can be given to the environment. The book has gained more importance since it has been written out of experience and after studying the environment. If ten persons read this book it is like ten persons joining in protection of environment, he added.

Skill training centre

Prof. Hemantha Kumar said that preparations are going on for the establishment of Skill Training Centre in the Varsity and this will help over 1,500 students to undergo training and get job. 

The book ‘Life Skill’ explains how to write bio-data, face interview and group discussion. This information was very useful for students. Of late the Government and the system has become a number game and more impetus was given on producing more number of graduates. 

Hitherto, the Gross Enrollment Ration was around 13 percent and it rose to 21 percent in the last six years. It is expected to reach 50 percent by 2035. In the wake of this, not much importance was given towards the quality of education. 

The quality of learning was very important for passed out degree students. Giving degree was not important but they must be taught on ways to lead life.

Karnataka Police Academy (KPA) Director Vipul Kumar said that the books have been written after much research and thinking. 

Currently, students are given only education. The students may have diploma or degree certificates in their hands but they don’t know how to face the challenges. On one hand the values are declining and technology was developing on the other hand. Balancing the duo was need of the hour. The books play an important role in this situation, he added.

Earlier, practical workshop was held for the growth of students of high school and PU. Students in the age group of 15 to 18 years will get a clear picture in the selection in professional courses. Two books that were released, must reach all schools and colleges. Unfortunately, students only read textbooks but not other books. Enrichment of knowledge was possible through reading of books on environmental education and skills. 

Dr. S. Mamata Satyanarayana and Dr. B.S.Ravikumar were present.