On 8th June 2025, the R2E – Recycling 2 Education Workshop, organized by अथक् प्रयास सतत् विकास, was held in collaboration with Swim for India Academy during Inter School Swimming Competition 2025 at Eicher School, Faridabad. Aligned with the national spirit of “खेलो भारत, स्वस्थ भारत,” the workshop brought together over 250 participants, parents, and community members in a celebration of sustainability, creativity, and well-being.
The Notebook Project: Roadshow
At the heart of the workshop was the Notebook Project, a flagship initiative of अथक् प्रयास सतत् विकास, which transforms paper scrap into new writing and creative materials for children. A dedicated four-member volunteer team from अथक् प्रयास सतत् विकास led hands-on sessions to educate children and parents about the environmental benefits and social impact of recycling.
Children engaged with real examples of how waste can be repurposed into educational tools, making learning more accessible and eco-friendly.
Each participant received a kit including notebooks, registers, an art file, and a mandala book.
Art Meets Environment: A Creative Call to Action
A major highlight of the day was an art workshop on the theme “Save Earth – Environmental Awareness.” Children expressed their ideas through imaginative, thought-provoking artwork, showcasing their understanding of environmental conservation.
Mandala Art books emerged as a favorite, drawing keen interest and encouraging mindfulness through art. This session proved that art therapy can serve as a powerful educational tool, reducing screen time and promoting emotional balance among children.
Swim Meet
Winners of Inter School Swimming Competition 2025 were rewarded with Yoga mats contributed by अथक् प्रयास सतत् विकास— reinforcing the event’s focus on both mental and physical well-being.
Given the long hours and summer heat, ORS (Oral Rehydration Solution) was distributed to all participants. This simple wellness measure helped maintain energy and hydration, ensuring that children could actively and safely engage throughout the event.
Community Engagement: Parents as Partners
The workshop went beyond engaging just children — it opened a meaningful dialogue with parents. Many expressed strong support for the Notebook Project, appreciating its dual focus on education and environmental responsibility.
Parents encouraged their children to be mindful of waste and to take pride in creative, sustainable learning practices. Children’s inquisitive questions about recycling further reflected the deep curiosity and potential the event sparked.
Impact and Takeaways
The R2E workshop at Eicher School showed that small, focused interventions can spark long-term behavioral change. By combining environmental education, creativity, and wellness, the initiative created a holistic learning environment that resonated with both children and adults.
Key learnings included:
- Art therapy as a tool to reduce screen dependency
- Encouragement of daily handwriting practice to support cognitive growth
- Sustainability as a shared responsibility across families and communities
Conclusion
The R2E – Recycling 2 Education Workshop at the Swim For India Academy was a powerful demonstration of how education, environment, and health can come together to create lasting impact. With continued community involvement and creative programming, R2E is paving the way for a more sustainable and inclusive educational future.
