Students from Curtin University’s campus in Dubai had the privilege of joining the World Migratory Bird Day celebrations at the Wasit Wetland Centre in Sharjah on May 20,2024. The event, held at the serene wetland reserve, provided a unique opportunity for students and faculty to connect with nature and understand the critical role that wetlands play in the global ecosystem.
The celebration was a vibrant and educational experience. Students enthusiastically participated in a series of simple yet innovative activities designed to foster a deeper appreciation of the intricate relationships between birds, insects, and humans. These hands-on experiences highlighted the fragility of these connections and underscored the impact of urbanisation on delicate ecosystems.
Ajita Nayar, lecturer at Curtin Dubai and mentor of the Sustainability Student Club, expressed her delight at witnessing the students’ engagement: “Curtin University was fortunate to be part of Wasit Wetland Centre’s World Migratory Bird Day celebrations at the wetland reserve in Sharjah. It was interesting to see students put on their childhood hats and participate in simple yet creative activities that led them to getting sensitised to the connections between birds, insects, and humans, and how urbanisation threatens these fragile ecosystems. As we move ahead, we hope to continue engaging and empowering our students to be stewards of our planet and contribute towards the success of Curtin University’s Sustainable Development Strategy.”
These experiences were not only educational but also inspirational, fostering a sense of responsibility and commitment to environmental stewardship among the participants.
Vishakha Sharma, Vice President of the Sustainability Club at Curtin Dubai, echoed this sentiment, emphasising the importance of such initiatives: “Participating in the World Migratory Bird Day celebrations at Wasit Wetland Centre was an eye-opener for many of us. It reinforced the need to protect these natural habitats and inspired our students to take actionable steps towards sustainability. We are committed to integrating these values into our community outreach programs, ensuring that our students become proactive advocates for environmental conservation.”
The event at Wasit Wetland Centre was a testament to Curtin’s dedication to sustainability and environmental education. By engaging students in meaningful activities and exposing them to the beauty and complexity of natural ecosystems, the university aims to cultivate a generation of environmentally conscious leaders.
As Curtin Dubai continues to advance its Sustainable Development Strategy, partnerships with organisations like the Wasit Wetland Centre will play a crucial role. These collaborations provide invaluable opportunities for students to learn, grow, and contribute to the global effort to preserve our planet’s biodiversity.
