Universities Must Emerge as Living Laboratories of Sustainability – Conference Declaration

The three-day international academic conference organized by Mahatma Gandhi University on the theme “Sustainable Future” concluded today. Dr. P.H. Kurian, Chairman of the State Environmental Impact Assessment Authority, delivered the keynote address at the valedictory session.

The event was held in connection with three major milestones — the 42nd anniversary of the establishment of Mahatma Gandhi University, the centenary of Mahatma Gandhi’s visit to Kerala, and his 156th birth anniversary. The conference was jointly organized by the Dr. Paulos Mar Gregorios Chair, the School of Gandhian Thought and Development Studies, the School of Environmental Sciences, and the Roy International Children’s Foundation. Sessions were held across the University Campus and Casa Maria, Peroor.

In its declaration, the conference urged academic institutions to play a leading role in promoting sustainable development and called upon governments to adopt policies that respect ecological boundaries and prevent exploitation.

Distinguished speakers at the concluding sessions included Dr. James Graham, Dr. Lidia Gerasimova, Prof. M.P. Mathai, Dr. Satish Kumar, Dr. Pankaj Sekhsaria, Dr. R.K. Nair, Dr. E.V. Ramaswami, Dr. Anu Gopinath, Dr. S. Abhilash, and Dr. V.P. Shailas.

The valedictory session was presided over by Fr. Dr. K.M. George. Prof. Baiju K.R. extended the welcome address, while Prof. P.P. Noushad proposed the vote of thanks.

A photo exhibition titled “Home” by K.R. Sunil, portraying the alarming effects of sea erosion along Kerala’s coast was also conducted.