Don Bosco workshop encourages sustainable agricultural practices

(MissionNewswire) The Don Bosco Cares for Our Common Home Center recently conducted a workshop on mushroom cultivation, which was facilitated by Don Bosco College in Yelagiri Hills, Tamil Nadu, India. The hands-on workshop equipped students with practical knowledge of sustainable agricultural practices and encouraged them to take active steps toward environmental stewardship.

A Salesian explained, “The workshop offered an excellent opportunity for students to learn the entire process of mushroom cultivation, from preparing the substrate to harvesting. Experts from the center’s team led the session, demonstrating how mushroom cultivation can be a simple yet effective way to promote food security and environmental sustainability.”

During the workshop, students learned about the types of mushrooms suitable for cultivation in the Yelagiri region as well as the process of preparing the substrate, inoculation and maintaining optimal growing conditions for mushrooms. The training allowed students to actively participate in using straw, water and mushroom spores while learning the importance of hygiene and sterilization to ensure a successful harvest. Students also gained insights into the nutritional value of mushrooms, the economic potential in cultivation and reducing food waste.

The Salesian added, “Students were enthusiastic and engaged throughout the workshop, showing great interest in learning about this eco-friendly practice. Many students expressed their desire to implement what they learned at home, turning this knowledge into action that aligns with the college’s commitment to sustainability and care for the environment.”

This initiative is part of the broader objective of promoting sustainable living practices among the students attending Don Bosco College. Mushroom cultivation offers students the opportunity to develop skills in organic farming and entrepreneurship, while contributing to the well-being of their communities.

This workshop is among many environmentally driven initiatives that Salesian colleges, schools and centers in India and around the globe have undertaken in the last few years. Many of these efforts are in response to Pope Francis’ 2020 Laudato Si’, the theme of which was “Good Christians and Upright Citizens.” In the document, Pope Francis emphasized the importance of education and training in helping youth foster environmental responsibility.

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Photo courtesy of Don Bosco Green Alliance

Don Bosco Green Alliance – Mushroom Cultivation Workshop at Don Bosco College: A Step Towards Sustainability

Don Bosco College Yelagiri Hills

Salesian Missions – India

World Bank – India