March for a Greener Future: Students take a stand for a sustainable tomorrow
The Diamond Jubilee High School, Mumbai and the Diamond Jubilee High School for Girls, Mumbai, part of the Aga Khan Education Service (AKES), India, organised a walkathon on 14 December 2025 themed “March for a Greener Future”, highlighting the urgent need to address climate change.
The event brought together 1,500 participants, including students, teachers, parents and community members, who marched for two kilometres through a neighbourhood in Mazgaon. During the march, they carried creatively designed placards and chanted slogans encouraging a greener and more sustainable future. Additionally, the walkathon held special significance as it coincided with the celebration of 120 years of the Aga Khan Schools in India, underscoring the institution’s long-standing commitment to not only academic excellence but also to social and environmental responsibility.
The event began with Dr Ravindra Shisve, Indian Police Service, who currently serves as the Joint Commissioner in the State Intelligence Department, Maharashtra Police, waving a flag to signal the start of the event. Prior to this, he shared a few words with the crowd, emphasising the importance of unity in diversity to build a sustainable future for generations to come.
For many students, the walkathon was more than just a march – it was an opportunity to become active advocates for the environment. Inspired by the event, several students pledged to adopt eco-friendly habits and encouraged their families and friends to do the same. The experience reinforced the idea that young people have an important role to play in protecting the planet and creating a sustainable future.
“I realised that even small actions like carrying a reusable water bottle or switching off lights can make a difference,” shared a Grade 8 participant.
The walkathon also provided a platform for students to express their creativity and concern for the environment. Some participants showcased green projects, while others donned innovative, theme-based costumes carrying powerful messages on sustainability. Special prizes were awarded to parents who wore thoughtfully designed costumes and carried placards aligned with the environmental theme.
The concluding ceremony was graced by the chief guest, Ms Savitha Rao, founder of the Quiet India Movement. She reinforced the importance of mindful living, reducing the everyday noise in busy cities and environmental pollution. Her message resonated strongly with the young participants, encouraging them to adopt sustainable practices in their daily lives.
Mr Farhad Merchant, Chief Executive Officer of AKES, India, also spoke about the importance of building a greener future and reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to continuing such environment-focused initiatives.
Along with the support and dedication of the teachers and students, the event’s success also stemmed from the volunteers from the local Ismaili community. From looking after the safety, security and well-being of every student to coordinating movement along the route, their dedication and teamwork played a key role in making the walkathon a safe and successful experience for all.
By nurturing environmentally conscious citizens and encouraging small acts of eco-consciousness, AKES, India continues to demonstrate how education can play a transformative role in building a more balanced and equitable future.
Photos (top to bottom):
- Students of the Diamond Jubilee High School, Mumbai enthusiastically kicked off the walkathon with a creative display.
- Students from neighbouring schools participated in the walk, carrying placards raising awareness about protecting the planet.
- Diamond Jubilee High School, Mumbai students showcased a model promoting plastic waste reduction during the walk.
- A Diamond Jubilee High School for Girls, Mumbai parent showcased a plastic-waste-themed costume alongside a whale model created by Diamond Jubilee High School, Mumbai students.
