June 8, 2011
Dept of Social Work, Amritapuri
 

According to recent surveys, youth in India are more environment-friendly than their peers in developed nations.
 

Two out of five young Indians take bucket baths, which use less water than showers. Nearly half use the public transport for their daily commute, resulting in a smaller carbon footprint.
 

The green lifestyles of contemporary Indian youth are encouraging. However, to stay on track, and keep heading in the right direction, they need to continue making the right choices.
 

Teaching them to make responsible choices that they can stand behind, a Leadership Training Program was recently conducted at the Public Library Hall in Kollam.
 

The program facilitated by faculty of the Amrita Department of Social Work was targeted towards moulding India’s up and coming leaders at the high school and plus two levels.
 

Twenty five students from Kollam, Trivandrum and Pathanamthitta participated.
 

Interactive games provided students practical experience applying leadership skills in a fun and memorable setting.
 

Among the essential leadership skills identified were self awareness, insight into one’s strengths and weaknesses; interpersonal skills and the ability to work in a team and maintain positive relations with team members.
 

“We tried to model and explore prominent leadership skills that make for success through the various program activities,” stated Department of Social Work faculty, Renjith R. Pillai, Amritapuri campus.
 

Quoting the examples of Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam, Mr. M.S. Dhoni and Mr. Ratan Tata, Mr. Pillai extolled the virtues of these leaders. He also spoke about Chancellor Amma’s extraordinary leadership.
 

During a self-awareness exercise, students reflected to identify their own positive traits, as well as the good characteristics of every other member in their groups. Participants then compared their personal observations with how others perceived them.
 

Students learned that successful leadership led to a successful life. The activities as a tool for learning and self-exploration were well received.
 

“The games weren’t just entertainment, there was a message behind every activity,” stated one attendee.
 

Another student shared, “This was a timely program for us. I hadn’t realized I had so many skills and good qualities, but my friends opened my eyes. I feel really confident now.”
 

Many students expressed similar sentiments.
 

“This program is definitely going to benefit me in my future life,” added another.
 

Indeed. For students who will become India’s future leaders, the training provided them the confidence and strength today, so they can continue making the right decisions tomorrow … and lead their lives, the green way.