A district level drawing and painting competition with a view to popularise science and technology was organised today by the office of the District Planning Officer of Mawkyrwat as part of the celebration of World Animal Day.
Additional Deputy Commissioner Yvette R Mawlong was the chief guest.
The programme, which was funded by State Council of Science Technology and Environment Meghalaya, on the theme, ‘Big or small, love them All’ saw the participation of several schools.
Speaking on the occasion, Mawlong said that World Animal Day is meant to raise awareness as well as to advocate for the rights and welfare of animals. She stated that the day was aligned with the feast day of St Francis of Assisi, the patron saint of animals.
Acknowledging the fact that animals are beings that need care and protection, she also emphasised on the importance and the need to educate individuals about treatment towards animals and awareness against cruelty.
S Kharsahnoh, District School Education Officer, also spoke on the occasion.
Prizes were also awarded to winners in the drawing and painting competition and poster competition in which the first prize was bagged by Pynbhalang Thongni of Nativity Higher Secondary School followed by Isakordor Marbaniang of Mawranglang Presbyterian Higher Secondary School in second place and Phibaaihun Iawphniaw of Horirai Memorial Higher Secondary School Photjaud-Rangthong in third.
In the poster competition the first prize was awarded to Distaroy Nongsiej of Modern Academy Rangmaw followed by Daiengskhem Lyngdoh of Mawten Secondary School and Pyndap Jingkmen Suting of Maharam Government Higher Secondary School.