On August 7, 2024, at 2:00 pm, Pavai Arts and Science College for Women organized a guest lecture in Pragathi Hall. The program began with a prayer song as an invocation to God. A. Asmitha from II B.Sc. Computer Science welcomed the gathering, followed by a presidential address delivered by Dr. N. Ezhili, Senior Principal of PASCW. B. Jananee from II M.A. English introduced the chief guest.
The guest speaker, Dr. P. Susheela, Associate Professor and Head of the Department of Zoology at PSGR Krishnammal College for Women, delivered a keynote address on ‘Environmental Management.’ She introduced the concept of ecosystem services and the elements found on Earth, referencing Aleksandr Ivanovich Oparin’s book The Origin of Life and J.B.S. Haldane’s work.
Dr. Susheela highlighted important features of the fundamental units of nature and explained the two categories of ecosystems: terrestrial and aquatic. She discussed the roles of various species within ecosystems and explored different types of ecosystems, including:
She captivated the students by introducing the horseshoe crab, whose bluish blood is used for medical purposes and costs $60,000 per gallon (4.5 liters). She shared that each year, the medical industry captures around 600,000 horseshoe crabs. Dr. Susheela also discussed extinct species, such as the dodo bird, and shared her observations of a wasp carrying larvae to feed its eggs.
Dr. Susheela concluded her session by emphasizing the significance of ecosystems and their role in maintaining a balanced way of living for all species, including humans. She also discussed the benefits of ecosystem services for people and businesses and provided guidance on how to maintain these services effectively.
After the session, our Senior Principal, Dr. Ezhili, thanked the guest speaker for her valuable time. C. Harini from II B.Sc. Computer Science proposed the vote of thanks. The session concluded with the National Anthem.
