Pond Ecosystem Visit

The Department of Zoology at SAFG College successfully organized an educational visit to the Raghavendra Swamy Temple Pond on March 25, 2025 by 1.30 and come back around 3.30. The visit aimed to provide students with hands-on experience in studying aquatic biodiversity, ecological interactions, and water quality assessment, which are essential components of their curriculum.During the visit, students actively engaged in various activities, including:

• Identification and classification of aquatic flora and fauna.
• Observation of ecological interactions within the pond ecosystem.
• Collection and analysis of water samples to assess quality parameters such as pH, dissolved oxygen, and turbidity.

Discussion on the impact of human activities and environmental changes on aquatic biodiversity.

The visit provided students with valuable insights into real-world ecological studies, reinforcing their classroom learning. They gained practical experience in field research techniques and developed a deeper appreciation for aquatic ecosystems and conservation efforts.

Workshop on Open Access Resources for Academic Excellence

A workshop on Open Access Resources for Academic Excellence was conducted by the Library and Information Centre at the college on March 24, 2024. The program aims to introduce students and faculty to various open-access digital resources available for educational and research purposes.The resource person, Mr. Rajesha H.T., covered the following topics in detail:

1. Digital Libraries & Open Access Resources

• Karnataka Digital Public Library
• National Library of India – Digital Archives
• National Digital Library of India (NDLI)

2. INFLIBNET e-Consortium

• N-LIST (National Library and Information Services Infrastructure for Scholarly Content)
• IndCat (Union Catalogue of Indian Universities)

3. INFLIBNET Open Access Initiatives

• Shodhganga & ShodhGangotri (Thesis Repositories)
• e-PG Pathshala, Vidya Mitra, and UGC-MOOCs
• Swayam Prabha and NPTEL (Educational Video Platforms)

4. Scholarly Networks & Research Databases

• VIDWAN (Expert Database of Scientists & Faculty)
• IRINS (Indian Research Information Network System)
• SheRNI (She Research Network in India)

5. Online Learning Platforms

• SWAYAM (MOOCs Platform for Higher Education)
• edX (Harvard-MIT Open Learning Platform)
• IIMBx Courses (Online Courses by IIM Bangalore)

Participants gained awareness of a wide range of freely available academic databases and digital libraries, enhancing their access to scholarly content. The session provided valuable insights into thesis repositories, expert databases, and scholarly communication networks, improving research opportunities. Additionally, step-by-step guidance was given on navigating and utilizing platforms like NDLI, INFLIBNET, and SWAYAM, ensuring practical knowledge of resource accessibility. Lastly, students and faculty were encouraged to explore free online courses, fostering a culture of self-learning and continuous academic growth beyond the classroom.

The workshop was highly informative and engaging, benefiting both students and faculty members. The session provided valuable knowledge on open-access resources, enabling participants to leverage digital tools for academic and research excellence.

World Water Day- Essay Competition

The Zoology and Geography Departments of SAFG College organized an essay competition on March 22, 2025, in observance of World Water Day. The event aimed to promote awareness about the importance of water conservation and sustainable management among students. The event witnessed enthusiastic participation from students across various disciplines. A total of 34 students took part, demonstrating their knowledge, analytical skills, and innovative ideas on water conservation. The essays reflected a deep understanding of the pressing global water challenges and the need for sustainable solutions. A panel of judges from the Botany and English Departments evaluated the essays based on content quality, originality, structure, and clarity. The top three essays were awarded certificates and exciting rewards to recognize and encourage student efforts in environmental awareness.

Before the essay competition, during the prayer assembly, Dr. Nirupama M, Head of the Zoology Department, spoke about the significance of water and World Water Day. She also led all faculty members and students in reciting a water pledge to emphasize the importance of conservation.

Nipun Test Certificate Distribution Programme for Rangers and Rovers

On March 10 and 12, 2025, the Bharat Scouts and Guides Hassan District organized a two-day Nipun exam camp for Rangers and Rovers at the Bharat Scouts and Guides Bhavan in Hassan. Fourteen members from our college’s Bharat Scouts and Guides units—Bahubali Rovers (6) and Rani Chennamma Rangers (8)—actively participated in the camp. All fourteen successfully completed the Nipun test.

The certificate distribution ceremony took place on March 14, 2025, where our esteemed principal, Dr. M. K. Manjunath, along with Rover and Ranger leaders Dr. Praveen Kumar S. and Niroosha M. R., presented certificates to the six rovers and eight rangers from our institution. Faculty members were also present to celebrate the achievements of the participants.