Students Explored Live Solar at McGilligan Centre

Indore, July 4 — Students from Daly College Indore, along with peers from SSVM Coimbatore, SGIS Kolhapur, and Gillco International School Mohali, participated in a hands-on exploration of sustainable living during a visit to the Jimmy McGilligan Centre for Sustainable Development. The visit was part of Day 2 of Immerse and Inspire, the flagship Round Square Inspired programme organised by Daly College Junior School.

Led by Janak Palta McGilligan, Director of the Centre, the session offered students practical insights into solar energy, zero-waste practices, and eco-friendly infrastructure. The Centre, located in Indore, is recognised for its innovative use of renewable resources and sustainable design.

One of the highlights was the auto-rotating solar thermal dish used for community cooking. A student called the technology “cool” and shared plans to replicate a solar-powered kitchen at home. Another student expressed amazement at seeing paper instantly catch fire using focused sunlight from a solar cooker—an effective demonstration of solar energy education in action.

Students also explored how the Centre maintains indoor comfort without air conditioning. Through natural ventilation, passive architecture, and dense plantation, the building remains cool without artificial systems. Staff at the Centre reported minimal use of LPG, showcasing a working model of low-energy living.

For many, it was their first exposure to a zero-waste household. One student noted that every item at the Centre was either reused, recycled, or composted. Inspired by this, they said their father, a hotelier, might explore installing a solar kitchen in his business operations.

The visit also included interaction with Janak Palta McGilligan, who spoke about her 40 years of work with tribal communities in Madhya Pradesh and her commitment to environmental education. Students learned how natural resources like sun, soil, and vegetation can serve as practical, sustainable solutions to everyday needs.

The experience challenged perceptions about sustainability. Through demonstrations of solar dryers, eco-cookers, and plantation methods, students saw that eco-friendly living is not only viable but can lead to a more efficient and balanced lifestyle.

Durga Singh, Round Square Representative of Daly College, said the visit had a lasting impact. Students returned with a renewed curiosity and a deeper understanding of environmental responsibility. Many expressed interest in adopting green practices at home and encouraging their communities to do the same.

The activity aligns with Daly College’s commitment to experiential learning, climate awareness, and sustainable education—values that position it among leading eco-conscious schools in India.