A week of Service, Culture, and Connection - French students in SEVAI

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French Students Immerse in Rural Tamil Nadu with SEVAI: A Week of Service, Culture, and Connection*

Eighteen students, including two teachers from _Saint Louis-Sainte Marie, Gignac-la-Nerthe, 13180 Marseille, France_, recently completed a one-week rural exposure program with _SEVAI_ in Tamil Nadu. The higher secondary students rolled up their sleeves at _Amoor_, helping with construction work and cleaning the _Kalanjium campus_. They explored nearby villages, getting a firsthand look at Indian rural life and its vibrant traditions.

Their visit to _SEVAI Shanthi Matriculation Higher Secondary School, Pettavaithalai_, included lively classroom interactions and enthusiastic participation in cultural events, sparking friendships and mutual learning. At the _Natural Resources Management Centre in K.N. Palayam_, they planted trees, tried their hand at pruning, and enjoyed an eco-walk through the _Myiawalki Forest_, witnessing Tamil Nadu's dedication to environmental care.

The itinerary also featured iconic Trichy sights like the _Rockfort Temple_ and the _Birds Park_, offering a taste of India's heritage and natural beauty. Fully embracing local culture, the students bought _sarees for girls and dhotis for boys_, dressed in traditional attire, ate meals served on banana leaves, and savored authentic Tamil cuisine. Their guide, _Ms. Veidevi,their guide_, skillfully bridged language and customs, making every interaction smooth and memorable.

Throughout their stay at _SEVAI Kalanjium Centre_, the group's curiosity, respect, and energy earned them praise from hosts and community members alike. On February 19, _Dr. K. Govindaraju_, Director of SEVAI, bid them farewell, commending their dedication and spirit. The week left lasting impressions on both French visitors and Indian hosts, weaving together service, culture, and friendship into a truly unforgettable experience. 🌿🤝Govin

🌹*Étudiants français immergés dans le Tamil Nadu rural avec SEVAI : une semaine de service, de culture et de connexion*

Dix-huit étudiants, dont deux enseignants de *Saint Louis-Sainte Marie, Gignac-la-Nerthe, 13180 Marseille, France*, ont récemment achevé un programme d'exposition rurale d'une semaine avec *SEVAI* au Tamil Nadu. Les élèves du secondaire ont retroussé leurs manches à *Amoor*, aidant aux travaux de construction et au nettoyage du campus de *Kalanjium*. Ils ont exploré les villages voisins, découvrant de première main la vie rurale indienne et ses traditions vibrantes.

Leur visite à l'école *SEVAI Shanthi Matriculation Higher Secondary School, Pettavaithalai*, comprenait des interactions animées en classe et une participation enthousiaste aux événements culturels, favorisant l'amitié et l'apprentissage mutuel. Au *Centre de gestion des ressources naturelles à K.N. Palayam*, ils ont planté des arbres, essayé la taille et profité d'une éco-marche dans la *forêt de Myiawalki*, témoignant de l'engagement du Tamil Nadu pour la protection de l'environnement.

Leur itinéraire comprenait également des sites emblématiques de Trichy comme le *temple de Rockfort* et le *parc des oiseaux*, offrant un aperçu du patrimoine et de la beauté naturelle de l'Inde. En adoptant pleinement la culture locale, les étudiants ont acheté des *sarees pour les filles et des dhotis pour les garçons*, se sont habillés en tenue traditionnelle, ont mangé des repas servis sur des feuilles de bananier et ont savouré la cuisine tamoule authentique. Leur guide, *Mme Veidevi*, a habilement fait le pont entre les langues et les coutumes, rendant chaque interaction fluide et mémorable.

Tout au long de leur séjour au *centre SEVAI Kalanjium*, la curiosité, le respect et l'énergie du groupe ont valu des éloges de la part des hôtes et des membres de la communauté. Le 19 février, *Dr. K. Govindaraju*, directeur de SEVAI, leur a dit au revoir, saluant leur dévouement et leur esprit. Cette semaine a laissé des impressions durables aux visiteurs français et à leurs hôtes indiens, tissant ensemble service, culture et amitié pour une expérience véritablement inoubliable. 🌿🤝Govin

ICHEC Business school Brussels students involved in Rural Construction in SEVAI

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*ICHEC Business School Students Complete Community Construction Projects in Tamil Nadu, Celebrate with Traditional Indian Campfire*

A group of 31 students from ICHEC Business School, Brussels, accompanied by two supervisors, recently concluded a impactful community service camp in Tamil Nadu, leaving behind a legacy of infrastructure and cross-cultural connection. Over the course of their stay, the students — divided into three teams — successfully constructed two work sheds for Korai mat weaving and readymade garment production at the Women's Training Centre in Amoor and Allur, and built a new classroom at SEVAI Shanthi Matriculation Higher Secondary School in Pettavaithalai. These projects were funded and partially built through the students' own manual labor, embodying the spirit of dignity of labour and hands-on community development.

The newly constructed buildings were formally inaugurated on February 18 and 19 in their respective locations, with Mr. Vincent Haurt, Housing Director of ICHEC Business School, presiding over the ceremonies. The inaugurations were marked by a vibrant celebration of Indian culture, as students and staff gathered for a campfire at SEVAI Shanthi Matriculation Higher Secondary School. The evening saw girls elegantly dressed in traditional Indian sarees and boys in classic Indian attire, symbolizing solidarity and respect for local customs. Dinner was served on banana leaves, featuring authentic Tamil traditional food, further deepening the cultural exchange.

Dr. K. Govindaraju, Director of SEVAI, lauded the students' efforts, highlighting their commitment to both construction and meaningful socialization with local communities. He emphasized how the students' willingness to engage in manual work and immerse themselves in Indian traditions reflected a true appreciation for dignity of labour and cultural values. The students, in turn, expressed heartfelt gratitude to both the ICHEC and SEVAI teams for organizing such a transformative camp.

Mr. Vincent Haurt praised the students' involvement in community projects and acknowledged SEVAI's exemplary arrangements. The cultural program was led by Mrs. Amala Jaya Kumar, with Principal Chitra proposing the vote of thanks. Mrs. Sudha, Additional Director of SEVAI, presented sarees to the girls and dhotis to the boys as tokens of appreciation for their participation and spirit.

The event not only resulted in tangible benefits for the local community but also fostered lasting bonds between the Belgian students and their Indian hosts, celebrating shared humanity, respect for labor, and the joy of cultural exchange.

🌹Les étudiants de l'ICHEC Business School achèvent des projets de construction communautaire au Tamil Nadu et célèbrent autour d'un feu de camp traditionnel indien*

Un groupe de 31 étudiants de l'ICHEC Business School de Bruxelles, accompagnés de deux superviseurs, a récemment conclu un camp de service communautaire au Tamil Nadu, laissant derrière lui un héritage d'infrastructures et de connexions interculturelles. Répartis en trois équipes, les étudiants ont construit deux ateliers pour le tissage de nattes en korai et la production de vêtements prêts-à-porter au centre de formation des femmes à Amoor et Allur, ainsi qu'une nouvelle salle de classe à l'école secondaire SEVAI Shanthi Matriculation à Pettavaithalai. Ces projets ont été financés et partiellement réalisés grâce au travail manuel des étudiants eux-mêmes, incarnant l'esprit de dignité du travail et de développement communautaire concret.

Les bâtiments nouvellement construits ont été officiellement inaugurés les 18 et 19 février dans leurs emplacements respectifs, sous la présidence de M. Vincent Haurt, directeur du logement à l'ICHEC Business School. Les inaugurations ont été marquées par une célébration vibrante de la culture indienne, avec un feu de camp à l'école SEVAI Shanthi Matriculation. La soirée a vu les filles élégamment vêtues de sarees traditionnels indiens et les garçons en tenue indienne classique, symbolisant la solidarité et le respect des coutumes locales. Le dîner a été servi sur des feuilles de bananier, avec des plats traditionnels tamouls, approfondissant ainsi l'échange culturel.

Le Dr K. Govindaraju, directeur de SEVAI, a salué les efforts des étudiants, soulignant leur engagement à la fois dans la construction et dans la socialisation avec les communautés locales. Il a insisté sur la volonté des étudiants de s'impliquer dans le travail manuel et de s'immerger dans les traditions indiennes, reflétant une véritable appréciation de la dignité du travail et des valeurs culturelles. Les étudiants, à leur tour, ont exprimé leur gratitude envers les équipes de l'ICHEC et de SEVAI pour l'organisation de ce camp transformateur.

M. Vincent Haurt a félicité l'implication des étudiants dans les projets communautaires et a reconnu l'excellence de l'organisation par SEVAI. Le programme culturel a été dirigé par Mme Amala Jaya Kumar, avec la principale Chitra proposant le vote de remerciements. Mme Sudha, directrice adjointe de SEVAI, a offert des sarees aux filles et des dhotis aux garçons en signe de reconnaissance pour leur participation et leur esprit.

L'événement a non seulement apporté des bénéfices tangibles à la communauté locale, mais a également créé des liens durables entre les étudiants belges et leurs hôtes indiens, célébrant l'humanité partagée, le respect du travail et la joie de l'échange culturel.

ICHEC Business school, Brussels services appreciated by SEVAI

Thirty-one students and two supervisors from ICHEC Business School, Brussels, completed a community service camp in Tamil Nadu, constructing two work sheds for Korai mat weaving and readymade garment production at the Women's Training Centre in Amoor and Allur, and a new classroom at SEVAI Shanthi Matriculation Higher Secondary School, Pettavaithalai. The projects, funded and partially built by the students' own manual labor, highlighted the dignity of labour. Inaugurated on February 18–19 by Mr. Vincent Haurt, Housing Director of ICHEC, the celebrations included a traditional Indian campfire, with students dressed in sarees and dhotis, dinner on banana leaves, and Tamil cuisine. Dr. K. Govindaraju, Director of SEVAI, praised their efforts and cultural respect, while students expressed gratitude to ICHEC and SEVAI teams. The event fostered cross-cultural bonds and community development. 🌿🤝Govin

🌹Trente et un étudiants et deux superviseurs de l'ICHEC Business School de Bruxelles ont achevé un camp de service communautaire au Tamil Nadu, construisant deux ateliers pour le tissage de nattes en korai et la production de vêtements prêts-à-porter au centre de formation des femmes à Amoor et Allur, ainsi qu'une nouvelle salle de classe à l'école secondaire SEVAI Shanthi Matriculation à Pettavaithalai. Les projets, financés et partiellement réalisés par le travail manuel des étudiants eux-mêmes, ont mis en lumière la dignité du travail. Inaugurés les 18 et 19 février par M. Vincent Haurt, directeur du logement à l'ICHEC, les célébrations comprenaient un feu de camp traditionnel indien, avec des étudiants vêtus de sarees et de dhotis, un dîner servi sur des feuilles de bananier et de la cuisine tamoule. Le Dr K. Govindaraju, directeur de SEVAI, a salué leurs efforts et leur respect culturel, tandis que les étudiants ont exprimé leur gratitude envers les équipes de l'ICHEC et de SEVAI. L'événement a favorisé les liens interculturels et le développement communautaire. 🌿🤝

— Govin

ICHEC Business school,Brussels services appreciated by SEVAI.

Thirty-one students and two supervisors from ICHEC Business School, Brussels, completed a community service camp in Tamil Nadu, constructing two work sheds for Korai mat weaving and readymade garment production at the Women's Training Centre in Amoor and Allur, and a new classroom at SEVAI Shanthi Matriculation Higher Secondary School, Pettavaithalai. The projects, funded and partially built by the students' own manual labor, highlighted the dignity of labour. Inaugurated on February 18–19 by Mr. Vincent Haurt, Housing Director of ICHEC, the celebrations included a traditional Indian campfire, with students dressed in sarees and dhotis, dinner on banana leaves, and Tamil cuisine. Dr. K. Govindaraju, Director of SEVAI, praised their efforts and cultural respect, while students expressed gratitude to ICHEC and SEVAI teams. The event fostered cross-cultural bonds and community development. 🌿🤝Govin

🌹Trente et un étudiants et deux superviseurs de l'ICHEC Business School de Bruxelles ont achevé un camp de service communautaire au Tamil Nadu, construisant deux ateliers pour le tissage de nattes en korai et la production de vêtements prêts-à-porter au centre de formation des femmes à Amoor et Allur, ainsi qu'une nouvelle salle de classe à l'école secondaire SEVAI Shanthi Matriculation à Pettavaithalai. Les projets, financés et partiellement réalisés par le travail manuel des étudiants eux-mêmes, ont mis en lumière la dignité du travail. Inaugurés les 18 et 19 février par M. Vincent Haurt, directeur du logement à l'ICHEC, les célébrations comprenaient un feu de camp traditionnel indien, avec des étudiants vêtus de sarees et de dhotis, un dîner servi sur des feuilles de bananier et de la cuisine tamoule. Le Dr K. Govindaraju, directeur de SEVAI, a salué leurs efforts et leur respect culturel, tandis que les étudiants ont exprimé leur gratitude envers les équipes de l'ICHEC et de SEVAI. L'événement a favorisé les liens interculturels et le développement communautaire. 🌿🤝

— Govin

Prasiddhi, young representatives delivered a powerful address at India AI impact summit 2026

Prasiddhi, a young representative from Chennai, earned widespread appreciation for her remarkable participation at the India AI Impact Summit 2026, where she delivered a powerful address on safe, inclusive, and ethical AI for every child. Her work with UNICEF and Generation Unlimited, shaping the global mandate for safe AI by amplifying youth voices, has been hailed as truly inspiring. Congratulating her, Dr. K. Govindaraju, Founder and Director of SEVAI (Society for Education Village Action and Improvement), a Tamil Nadu Government awardee, expressed pride in her success and wished her continued achievements. Beyond AI advocacy, Prasiddhi has been deeply involved in community service since her Primary school days, leading massive tree plantation drives and serving as a motivational speaker for children. She visited SEVAI twice, planting trees at SEVAI Shanthi Matriculation Higher Secondary School and in Amoor when she was just 10 years old, and has received several top-level awards for her environmental projects by planting around 100,000 trees under the Prasiddhi Foundation. 🌹🌿 — Govin

Step by step tree growing process explained in SEVAI.

SEVAI grows healthy tree saplings and distributes them to farmers for planting under the SEVAI project. Project in-charge K. Sakthivel instructed field functionary Amala to emphasize quality plantation and tree raising, highlighting that tree plantation plays a vital role in environmental conservation. Healthy saplings are the foundation of successful plantation—they establish quickly, grow stronger, and survive stresses like drought, pests, and diseases. To plant them properly, choose healthy, disease-free saplings with strong roots and straight stems, preferably native species. Prepare the site by clearing weeds, rocks, and debris, then loosen the soil. Dig pits 2–3 times wider than the root ball, deep enough for roots, and space them 3–5 meters apart. Enrich the soil with compost, cow dung, or leaf mold, place the sapling upright, spread its roots, and fill with soil, pressing lightly to remove air pockets. Water immediately and continue regularly, especially in dry weeks. Add mulch to retain moisture, use tree guards if needed, and care for the saplings by watering, weeding, and monitoring for pests until they establish. 🌱

_Impact: Every healthy sapling planted today grows into a shield for tomorrow's environment._

🌿 Govin

*Tamil:*

SEVAI நிறுவனம் ஆரோக்கியமான மரக்கன்றுகளை வளர்த்து, அவற்றை விவசாயிகளுக்கு SEVAI திட்டத்தின் கீழ் வழங்குகிறது. திட்டப் பொறுப்பாளர் கே. சக்திவேல், களப்பணியாளர் அமலாவிடம் தரமான நடவு மற்றும் மர வளர்ப்பை வலியுறுத்த அறிவுறுத்தினார், மேலும் மரம் நடுதல் சுற்றுச்சூழல் பாதுகாப்பில் முக்கிய பங்கு வகிக்கிறது என்பதை எடுத்துக்காட்டினார். ஆரோக்கியமான மரக்கன்றுகள் வெற்றிகரமான நடவுக்கு அடித்தளமாகும்—அவை விரைவாக வேரூன்றி, வலுவாக வளர்ந்து, வறட்சி, பூச்சிகள், நோய்கள் போன்ற சூழல் அழுத்தங்களைத் தாங்கும். சரியாக நடவு செய்ய, வலுவான வேர்களும் நேரான தண்டும் கொண்ட ஆரோக்கியமான, நோயற்ற மரக்கன்றுகளை, முக்கியமாக நாட்டு இனங்களைத் தேர்ந்தெடுக்க வேண்டும். நடவு செய்யும் இடத்தை களைகள், கற்கள், குப்பைகள் இல்லாமல் சுத்தம் செய்து, மண்ணை தளர்த்த வேண்டும். வேர்க்கட்டை விட 2–3 மடங்கு அகலமாகவும், வேர்கள் வசதியாக இருக்கும் ஆழத்திலும் குழிகளைத் தோண்டி, 3–5 மீட்டர் இடைவெளியில் அமைக்க வேண்டும். மண்ணை உரம், மாட்டுச் சாணம் அல்லது இலை மக்கு கொண்டு செழுமைப்படுத்தி, மரக்கன்றை நேராக வைத்து, வேர்களை பரப்பி, மண்ணை நிரப்பி, காற்று இடைவெளிகள் இல்லாமல் லேசாக அழுத்த வேண்டும். நடவு செய்த உடனேயே தண்ணீர் ஊற்றி, குறிப்பாக வறண்ட வாரங்களில் தொடர்ந்து நீர்ப்பாசனம் செய்ய வேண்டும். ஈரப்பதத்தை தக்கவைக்க தழைக்கூளம் இடவும், தேவைப்பட்டால் மரக்காவல் அமைக்கவும். மரக்கன்றுகள் நிலைபெறும் வரை தண்ணீர், களை, பூச்சி கட்டுப்பாடு ஆகியவற்றை கவனமாகப் பராமரிக்க வேண்டும். 🌱

_தாக்கம்: இன்று நடப்படும் ஒவ்வொரு ஆரோக்கியமான மரக்கன்றும் நாளைய சுற்றுச்சூழலுக்கு ஒரு கேடயமாக வளரும்._

🌿 Govin

Trichy Book Fair 2026 is well organised for the benefit of the public especially for children.

The Trichy Book Fair 2026, held from February 14–22 at St. John's Vestry Higher Secondary School grounds,as organised by Government,is a well-organized celebration of literature, featuring over 130 stalls and 100+ publishers offering Tamil, English, children's, and competitive exam books. Visitors can enjoy meet-the-author sessions, reading drives, cultural performances, literary talks, and fun competitions, all with free entry and special discounts. With colorful storybooks for kids, exam guides, and a government schemes photo exhibition, the fair blends learning, culture, and community spirit. Community members praised the arrangements and offered suggestions, emphasizing the need for wider publicity to draw more locals, readers, and buyers. Meanwhile, teachers from SEVAI Shanthi Matriculation Higher Secondary School, Pettavaithalai, plan to bring students to the fair this weekend, February 21st, to give them exposure to a wide variety of books and an opportunity to meet authors, making it a truly enriching experience. Reading books nurtures imagination, sharpens thinking, and builds empathy, making it one of the most powerful habits for personal and social growth. 🌿☀️ Govin

Trichy Book Fair 2026 is a well organised celebration 👏💐

The Trichy Book Fair 2026, held from February 14–22 at St. John's Vestry Higher Secondary School grounds, is a well-organized celebration of literature, featuring over 130 stalls and 100+ publishers offering Tamil, English, children's, and competitive exam books. Visitors can enjoy meet-the-author sessions, reading drives, cultural performances, literary talks, and fun competitions, all with free entry and special discounts. With colorful storybooks for kids, exam guides, and a government schemes photo exhibition, the fair blends learning, culture, and community spirit. Mr. Padmashree Subburaman praised the arrangements but stressed the need for wider publicity to draw more locals, readers, and buyers. Angusam Publishers, whose stall attracted large student crowds, echoed this, noting that higher public turnout would benefit both readers and stall owners. Writer and Trichy Writers Association Secretary Mr. V. Jawahar Arumugam added that involving local publishers and writers in planning, along with campaign-style publicity and daily author talks, would make the fair a greater success for the community.🌿☀️

திருச்சி புத்தகத் திருவிழா 2026, பிப்ரவரி 14 முதல் 22 வரை செயின்ட் ஜான்ஸ் வெஸ்ட்ரி மேல்நிலைப் பள்ளி மைதானத்தில் நடைபெறுகிறது. இது 130-க்கும் மேற்பட்ட அரங்குகள் மற்றும் 100-க்கும் மேற்பட்ட பதிப்பகங்கள் பங்கேற்கும், தமிழ், ஆங்கிலம், குழந்தைகள் மற்றும் போட்டித் தேர்வுகளுக்கான புத்தகங்களை வழங்கும் ஒரு சிறப்பான இலக்கியக் கொண்டாட்டமாகும். பார்வையாளர்கள் எழுத்தாளர்களுடன் நேரடி சந்திப்பு, வாசிப்பு ஊக்குவிப்பு நிகழ்ச்சிகள், கலாச்சார நிகழ்ச்சிகள், இலக்கியப் பேச்சுகள் மற்றும் போட்டிகளை அனுபவிக்கலாம். அனுமதி இலவசம் மற்றும் சிறப்புத் தள்ளுபடிகள் உண்டு. குழந்தைகளுக்கான வண்ணமயமான கதைப் புத்தகங்கள், போட்டித் தேர்வு வழிகாட்டிகள் மற்றும் அரசு திட்டங்களை விளக்கும் புகைப்படக் கண்காட்சி ஆகியவை இடம்பெறுகின்றன. திரு. பத்மஸ்ரீ சுப்புராமன் ஏற்பாடுகளைப் பாராட்டியதோடு, மேலும் பரவலான விளம்பரம் மூலம் உள்ளூர் மக்கள், வாசகர்கள் மற்றும் வாங்குபவர்களை ஈர்க்க வேண்டும் என்று வலியுறுத்தினார். அங்குசம் பதிப்பகம், மாணவர்களிடையே பெரும் வரவேற்பைப் பெற்றதாகவும், அதிக பொதுமக்கள் வருகை இருந்தால் வாசகர்களும் விற்பனையாளர்களும் பயனடைவார்கள் என்று குறிப்பிட்டது. எழுத்தாளர் மற்றும் திருச்சி எழுத்தாளர் சங்கத்தின் செயலாளர் திரு. வி. ஜவஹர் Arumugam உள்ளூர் பதிப்பகங்கள் மற்றும் எழுத்தாளர்களை திட்டமிடலில் ஈடுபடுத்துவதும், பிரச்சார முறையிலான விளம்பரம் மற்றும் தினசரி எழுத்தாளர் உரைகளை ஏற்பாடு செய்வதும், இந்தத் திருவிழாவை சமூகத்திற்கு மேலும் பயனுள்ளதாக மாற்றும் என்று கூறினார். 🌿☀️Govin

Thotiyapatty Seed Bank enables farmers to get quality seeds at a fair price.

.SEVAI has established a retail seed bank in Thottiyapatty, with Mr. K. Devendran overseeing its operations and Mrs. Vanitha Palanisamy handling marketing. Supported by OFI-SEVAI, the seed bank provides farmers, gardeners, and Women SHGs with high-quality, tested seeds in small or large packs, along with guidance on planting and sustainable farming. It stocks a wide range of varieties, including vegetables, fruits, herbs, flowers, cereals and grains, native and heirloom seeds, and fodder crops. By making diverse, reliable seeds easily accessible, the Thottiyapatty seed bank helps preserve biodiversity, strengthen food security, and promote greener, self-reliant rural communities. The shop operates on a fair-profit model, ensuring affordable prices while generating revolving funds to sustain its services. Careful storage and pest management practices protect seed quality, giving farmers confidence in every purchase. 🌿Govin

SEVAI Shanthi Matriculation Higher Secondary school Students Exposure to NRM Centre

*SEVAI Shanthi Matriculation Higher Secondary School Students Explore Nature at NRM Centre*

On their  visit on the 18th, February 2026 to the SEVAI Natural Resources Management Centre in K.N. Palayam, students from SEVAI Shanthi Matriculation Higher Secondary School, along with their Botany and Environmental Science teacher, enjoyed a day of learning beyond textbooks.

The students got hands-on training in *organic farming*, discovering how to grow food using natural compost and eco-friendly methods. They explored *environmental conservation*, learning how to protect soil, water, and plants. The program also introduced *climate change adaptation*, showing ways to safeguard crops and nature from changing weather.

A key highlight was understanding *biodiversity* — how plants, animals, and insects work together to keep ecosystems healthy. The visit left students inspired to protect nature and apply their lessons in everyday life. 🌿Govin

French students experience Eco-Walk in Myiawalki Forest in SEVAI NRM Centre.

French Students Experience Eco-Walk at SEVAI NRM Centre Miyawaki Forest

K.N. Palayam, 18th February 2026:_ A group of 16 students and two teachers from Saint Louis-Sainte Marie, Gignac-la-Nerthe, Marseille, France, visited the SEVAI Natural Resources Management (NRM) Centre on Wednesday afternoon, accompanied by Miss Veideki and Baldharsan from Chennai. The students contributed manual labour, supporting eco-friendly farming, water conservation, and other sustainable practices. They also took an Eco-Walk through the centre's Miyawaki Forest, a fast-growing, dense, native afforestation method that restores degraded land, boosts biodiversity, and creates self-sustaining ecosystems. The walk highlighted the importance of Miyawaki forests in combating climate change, improving air quality, and providing natural spaces for health and well-being. Participants enjoyed fresh, oxygen-rich air, stress relief, low-impact exercise, and a deeper connection with nature, while gaining hands-on awareness of how Miyawaki forests support ecosystem restoration and sustainable development. 🌿

*French Version:*

_Des étudiants français découvrent l'Éco-Marche au Centre NRM de SEVAI dans la forêt Miyawaki_

_K.N. Palayam, 18 février 2026 :_ Un groupe de 16 étudiants et deux enseignants de Saint Louis-Sainte Marie, Gignac-la-Nerthe, Marseille, France, a visité le Centre de gestion des ressources naturelles (NRM) de SEVAI mercredi après-midi, accompagné de Mlle Veideki et Baldharsan de Chennai. Les étudiants ont contribué par un travail manuel, soutenant l'agriculture écologique, la conservation de l'eau et d'autres pratiques durables. Ils ont également participé à une Éco-Marche dans la forêt Miyawaki du centre, une méthode de reboisement rapide, dense et native qui restaure les terres dégradées, renforce la biodiversité et crée des écosystèmes autonomes. La marche a mis en lumière l'importance des forêts Miyawaki dans la lutte contre le changement climatique, l'amélioration de la qualité de l'air et la création d'espaces naturels pour la santé et le bien-être. Les participants ont profité d'un air frais et riche en oxygène, d'un soulagement du stress, d'un exercice physique doux et d'une connexion plus profonde avec la nature, tout en prenant conscience de manière concrète de la contribution des forêts Miyawaki à la restauration des écosystèmes et au développement durable.

French students immerse in Sustainable Practices at SEVAI Natural Resources Management centre

_K.N. Palayam, 18th February 2026:_ A group of 16 students and two teachers from Saint Louis-Sainte Marie, Gignac-la-Nerthe, Marseille, France, visited the SEVAI Natural Resources Management (NRM) Centre in K.N. Palayam on Wednesday afternoon, accompanied by Miss Veideki,Baldharsan from Chennai. The team observed and engaged in activities such as tree sapling stacking, water and soil conservation, Miyawaki forest development, bio-manure production, and a watershed model showcasing spillway structures, water recharge, and contour bunding. Demonstrating the dignity of labour, the students also contributed manual work by cleaning the centre and packing bio-manure bags, earning appreciation from local workers. The SEVAI NRM Centre plays a vital role in promoting sustainable use and conservation of natural resources, serving as a learning hub for farmers, students, and rural communities, with key focus areas including sustainable agriculture, water conservation, agroforestry, biodiversity, ecosystem restoration, and climate adaptation. 🌿Goviin

*Des étudiants français s'immergent dans les pratiques durables au Centre NRM de SEVAI*

_K.N. Palayam, 18 février 2026 :_ Un groupe de 16 étudiants et deux enseignants de Saint Louis-Sainte Marie, Gignac-la-Nerthe, Marseille, France, a visité le Centre de gestion des ressources naturelles (NRM) de SEVAI à K.N. Palayam mercredi après-midi, accompagné de Mlle Veideki et Baldharsan de Chennai. L'équipe a observé et participé à des activités telles que l'empilement de jeunes arbres, la conservation de l'eau et des sols, le développement de la forêt Miyawaki, la production de bio-compost et un modèle de bassin versant présentant des structures de déversoir, la recharge en eau et le contour bunding. Démontrant la dignité du travail, les étudiants ont également contribué manuellement en nettoyant le centre et en emballant des sacs de bio-compost, ce qui a valu l'appréciation des travailleurs locaux. Le Centre NRM de SEVAI joue un rôle vital dans la promotion de l'utilisation durable et de la conservation des ressources naturelles, servant de centre d'apprentissage pour les agriculteurs, les étudiants et les communautés rurales, avec des domaines clés axés sur l'agriculture durable, la conservation de l'eau, l'agroforesterie, la biodiversité, la restauration des écosystèmes et l'adaptation au climat. 🌿Govin

French Students immersed in Sustainable practices at SEVAI Natural Resources Management centre.

K.N. Palayam, 18th February 2026:_ A group of 18 students and two teachers from Saint Louis-Sainte Marie, Gignac-la-Nerthe, Marseille, France, visited the SEVAI Natural Resources Management (NRM) Centre in K.N. Palayam on Wednesday afternoon, accompanied by Miss Veideki,Baldharsan from Chennai. The team observed and engaged in activities such as tree sapling stacking, water and soil conservation, Miyawaki forest development, bio-manure production, and a watershed model showcasing spillway structures, water recharge, and contour bunding. Demonstrating the dignity of labour, the students also contributed manual work by cleaning the centre and packing bio-manure bags, earning appreciation from local workers. The SEVAI NRM Centre plays a vital role in promoting sustainable use and conservation of natural resources, serving as a learning hub for farmers, students, and rural communities, with key focus areas including sustainable agriculture, water conservation, agroforestry, biodiversity, ecosystem restoration, and climate adaptation. 🌿Goviin

*Des étudiants français s'immergent dans les pratiques durables au Centre NRM de SEVAI*

_K.N. Palayam, 18 février 2026 :_ Un groupe de 18 étudiants et deux enseignants de Saint Louis-Sainte Marie, Gignac-la-Nerthe, Marseille, France, a visité le Centre de gestion des ressources naturelles (NRM) de SEVAI à K.N. Palayam mercredi après-midi, accompagné de Mlle Veideki et Baldharsan de Chennai. L'équipe a observé et participé à des activités telles que l'empilement de jeunes arbres, la conservation de l'eau et des sols, le développement de la forêt Miyawaki, la production de bio-compost et un modèle de bassin versant présentant des structures de déversoir, la recharge en eau et le contour bunding. Démontrant la dignité du travail, les étudiants ont également contribué manuellement en nettoyant le centre et en emballant des sacs de bio-compost, ce qui a valu l'appréciation des travailleurs locaux. Le Centre NRM de SEVAI joue un rôle vital dans la promotion de l'utilisation durable et de la conservation des ressources naturelles, servant de centre d'apprentissage pour les agriculteurs, les étudiants et les communautés rurales, avec des domaines clés axés sur l'agriculture durable, la conservation de l'eau, l'agroforesterie, la biodiversité, la restauration des écosystèmes et l'adaptation au climat. 🌿Govin

French Students visited NRMC of SEVAI

On the afternoon of 18th February 2026, 18 students and two teachers from Saint Louis-Sainte Marie, Gignac-la-Nerthe, Marseille, France, visited the SEVAI Natural Resources Management Centre in K.N. Palayam, accompanied by Miss Veideki and Baldharsan from Chennai. The team observed and engaged in various activities, including tree sapling stacking, water and soil conservation techniques, Miyawaki forest development, bio-manure production, and a watershed model showcasing spillway structures, water recharge technology, and contour bunding. The centre plays a vital role in promoting the sustainable use and conservation of natural resources such as soil, water, and biodiversity, serving as a learning hub for farmers, students, and rural communities. It offers practical knowledge on eco-friendly practices that protect the environment while enhancing livelihoods, with key focus areas including sustainable agriculture, water conservation, agroforestry, biodiversity promotion, ecosystem restoration, and climate adaptation. Major activities include training and exposure visits, demonstrations of rainwater harvesting, organic farming, tree planting, nursery development, wasteland restoration, and awareness programs on environmental protection and natural resource management. 🌿Govin

Agro Forestry program visit for replication

The Agroforestry Field Exposure Visit for SEVAI SHG women farmers at SEVAI Amoor Kalanjium Centre showcased a successful model integrating fruit trees (guava, coconut, mango, lemon) with timber species (teak, mahogany). This system boosts farm productivity, biodiversity, and soil health while providing seasonal income from fruits and long-term financial security through timber. It also promotes soil conservation, water retention, and micro-climate improvement, fostering sustainable agriculture and economic resilience. Inspired by this model, participants expressed keen interest in adopting agroforestry on their own lands, gaining knowledge and confidence for better livelihoods and environmental sustainability. This visit serves as a valuable reference for replicating agroforestry programs. 🌿Govin

Dignity of labour exemplified by ICHEC Business school Brussels.

The collaboration between ICHEC Business School students from Belgium and local skilled workers at SEVAI Allur, in building a community centre, beautifully exemplifies the dignity of labour. By working hands-on with masons, carpenters, and laborers, the students showed that every form of work—whether physical or intellectual—holds value and deserves respect. Their involvement broke stereotypes between "white-collar" and "blue-collar" jobs, highlighting humility, teamwork, and mutual appreciation. This partnership not only applied business knowledge but also nurtured stronger community bonds, proving that honest labour, in any form, builds both structures and solidarity. 

SEVAI அல்லூரில் சமூக மையம் கட்டும் பணியில் பெல்ஜியத்தின் ICHEC வணிகப் பள்ளி மாணவர்கள் மற்றும் உள்ளூர் திறன்மிக்க தொழிலாளர்களின் ஒத்துழைப்பு, உழைப்பின் மதிப்பை அழகாக வெளிப்படுத்துகிறது. கொத்தனார்கள், தச்சர்கள் மற்றும் தொழிலாளர்களுடன் இணைந்து கைகோர்த்து பணியாற்றியதன் மூலம், உடல் உழைப்பு மற்றும் அறிவுசார் வேலை இரண்டுமே மதிப்புக்குரியவை என்பதை மாணவர்கள் காட்டினர். அவர்களின் பங்களிப்பு "வெள்ளை காலர்" மற்றும் "நீல காலர்" வேலைகளுக்கு இடையேயான பாகுபாடுகளை உடைத்து, பணிவு, குழுவாகச் செயல்படுதல் மற்றும் பரஸ்பர மதிப்பீட்டை வலியுறுத்தியது. இந்த கூட்டாண்மை வணிக அறிவை மட்டும் பயன்படுத்தாமல், சமூகத்தில் வலுவான பிணைப்புகளை உருவாக்கியது. எந்த வடிவத்திலான நேர்மையான உழைப்பும் கட்டமைப்புகளை மட்டுமல்ல, ஒற்றுமையையும் கட்டுகிறது என்பதை இது நிரூபிக்கிறது.🌿Govin

"Dignity of labour"exemplified by ICHEC Business school Brussels students

The collaboration between ICHEC Business School students from Belgium and local skilled workers at SEVAI Allur, in building a community centre, beautifully exemplifies the dignity of labour. By working hands-on with masons, carpenters, and laborers, the students showed that every form of work—whether physical or intellectual—holds value and deserves respect. Their involvement broke stereotypes between "white-collar" and "blue-collar" jobs, highlighting humility, teamwork, and mutual appreciation. This partnership not only applied business knowledge but also nurtured stronger community bonds, proving that honest labour, in any form, builds both structures and solidarity. 🌿Govin

Dignity of labour exemplies by ICHEC Business school Brussels students

The collaboration between ICHEC Business School students from Belgium and local skilled workers at SEVAI Allur, in building a community centre, beautifully exemplifies the dignity of labour. By working hands-on with masons, carpenters, and laborers, the students showed that every form of work—whether physical or intellectual—holds value and deserves respect. Their involvement broke stereotypes between "white-collar" and "blue-collar" jobs, highlighting humility, teamwork, and mutual appreciation. This partnership not only applied business knowledge but also nurtured stronger community bonds, proving that honest labour, in any form, builds both structures and solidarity. 🌿Govin

Cultural Exchange in SEVAI Shanthi Matriculation Higher Secondary school

The cultural program featured vibrant dance performances by French school students and SEVAI Shanthi Matriculation Higher Secondary School, Pettavaithalai students. The French students, dressed in traditional Indian attire, performed Indian classical and folk dances, beautifully capturing the essence of Indian culture. Their graceful movements and colorful costumes impressed everyone and showed deep respect for Indian traditions. The SEVAI Shanthi students presented thematic dances that highlighted cultural and social messages, adding depth and meaning to the event. The performances celebrated cultural exchange and unity through arts.

International students cultural Exchange , France-India, in SEVAI Shanthi Matriculation Higher Secondary school,Petttavaithalai

On 16 February 2026, SEVAI Shanthi Matriculation Higher Secondary School, Pettavaithalai, organized a vibrant cultural program as part of a student exchange with Saint Louis-Sainte Marie, Gignac-la-Nerthe, 13180 Marseille, France. The event featured 16 French students and 2 teachers on a one-week rural exposure visit to SEVAI. Performances centered on safeguarding nature, traditional food, water conservation, and pollution-free living, with students presenting Karakattam and other folk dances. The French guests added a unique and colorful touch by performing their cultural events while dressed in sarees and dhotis, which was enthusiastically cheered by SEVAI students. The program highlighted the importance of labour, independence, and protecting natural resources for future generations, while fostering global unity and cultural appreciation. 🌹💐

Le 16 février 2026, l'école secondaire supérieure de matriculation SEVAI Shanthi, à Pettavaithalai, a organisé un programme culturel dynamique dans le cadre d'un échange d'étudiants avec Saint Louis-Sainte Marie, Gignac-la-Nerthe, 13180 Marseille, France. L'événement a réuni 16 étudiants français et 2 enseignants pour une visite d'exposition rurale d'une semaine à SEVAI. Les performances ont porté sur la protection de la nature, la nourriture traditionnelle, la conservation de l'eau et un mode de vie sans pollution, les étudiants présentant Karakattam et d'autres danses folkloriques. Les invités français ont ajouté une touche unique et colorée en présentant leurs événements culturels vêtus de sarees et de dhotis, ce qui a été chaleureusement applaudi par les étudiants de SEVAI. Le programme a souligné l'importance du travail, de l'indépendance et de la protection des ressources naturelles pour les générations futures, tout en favorisant l'unité mondiale et l'appréciation culturelle. 👏👍Govin