Young Environmentalist Initiates 'Tree School Nursery' on World Environment Day
On June 5, 2025, in celebration of World Environment Day, six-year-old environmental advocate Roohi Mohazzan inaugurated the innovative Tree School Nursery at the Government Vocational Higher Secondary School for Girls in Nadakkavu, Kozhikode. This project aims to empower students across India to collectively plant one crore (10 million) trees, promoting large-scale afforestation and environmental awareness.
Inauguration and Project Support
Roohi launched the initiative alongside renowned lyricist Kaithapram Damodaran Namboothiri, who joined her in planting the first saplings on the school's campus. The program is backed by the Faizal and Shabana Foundation, a philanthropic organization credited with transforming the Nadakkavu school into a model government educational institution within the state.
Roohi’s Environmental Activism
Roohi’s dedication to environmental causes extends beyond this initiative. She has actively participated in prior tree-planting campaigns, notably efforts aimed at curbing landslides in Wayanad district. Demonstrating her commitment, Roohi has also submitted handwritten petitions advocating for the use of recycled paper in passport printing — a move intended to reduce deforestation and raise ecological consciousness among the public and policymakers.
A Young Eco-Warrior’s Inspiration
Raised in Parambil Bazaar by parents Abdul Gani and Aneesa Muhammed, Roohi’s passion for ecology was nurtured through everyday sustainable practices. Her parents’ habit of purchasing notebooks made from recycled newspaper inspired her early involvement in environmental activism, fostering a proactive approach toward conservation from a young age.
School Leadership Participation
The inauguration event saw participation from key school leaders, including Principal Gireesh Kumar and Headmaster Premachandran, further emphasizing the institution’s commitment to fostering environmental education alongside traditional academics.
Impact and Future Prospects
- The Tree School Nursery initiative aims to mobilize students nationwide to plant one crore trees.
- It serves as a platform for raising awareness on sustainable practices and ecological responsibility.
- Supported by a philanthropic foundation, it seeks to inspire similar government schools to undertake environmental conservation efforts.
This initiative not only highlights the power of youth leadership in environmental matters but also underscores the potential for educational institutions to serve as hubs for sustainability movements across the country.
