Ms. Therese Almeida

 

The 2001 award was conferred jointly on Ms. Therese Almeida and Mr. Rajendra Kerker in recognition

of their commitment in conserving Goa's ecological heritage.

 

Therese Almeida is a noted educationalist, who introduced the concept of environmental education in Goan schools. She has written a comprehensive compendium on environmental education titled "Aqua World", which has been published by the Directorate of Science, Technology and Environment. In 1969, Ms. Almeida founded the Manovikas English School in Margao and continues to serve as its Director. In 1974, she founded the first nature club in Goa, and in 1991, was awarded a United Nation's Environmental Programme grant to study environmental education and outdoor teaching. Ms. Almeida's innovative approach to education incorporates an understanding of nature as well as an emphasis on individual creativity, and has been adopted in a number of schools in and around Goa.

 

 

 

 

Rajendra Kerker is a eco-socio-cultural researcher and educator. He has to date, identified in excess of 200 historical sites in North Goa, the most significant discovery being the rock carvings at Mauxi. Earlier, he successfully coordinated his efforts with the Bombay Natural History Society in getting the pristine forests of Mhadei and Neturlim classified as national sanctuaries. Subsequently, he and Dr. Nandkumar Kamat co- founded the Goa River Conservation network (GORICON) to save Goa's nine rivers. An avid speaker and humanist, he is also the author of numerous articles relating to Goa's cultural, environmental and archaeological heritage. Currently, Mr. Kerker is working on a book to depict the timeless bond between man and nature.