Gujarat Students Explore Sustainable Development at Jimmy Magilligan Center
Experiential Learning at the Jimmy Magilligan Center
Indore, December 19, 2025: A group of Master of Social Work (MSW) students from N.S. Patel Arts College in Anand, Gujarat, embarked on an experiential journey to the Jimmy Magilligan Center for Sustainable Development. The students described the center as a "living model of sustainable development," highlighting its blend of practical knowledge and inspiration.
Dr. Janak Palta Magilligan, the center's director and a Padma Shri awardee, warmly welcomed the students. She showcased the center's eco-friendly biodiversity farm, where rare trees such as teak, mahogany, parijat, kadamba, aritha, ratanjot, and mahua, along with medicinal plants like giloey and punarnava, are cultivated. The students were amazed by the variety of rare species.
The students were thrilled to witness live cooking using solar cookers. Practical demonstrations of solar and wind energy provided them insights into the potential of renewable energy and its innovations in the health sector. Pooja Pandit presented samples of grains, vegetables, lentils, and other products. The students were deeply impressed by Dr. Palta's pollution-free, waste-free, and sustainable food-based lifestyle.
Students expressed that Dr. Palta's dedication, hard work, and willpower emotionally resonated with them. Despite facing numerous challenges in life, her commitment to social service serves as a significant inspiration for the youth. This visit not only equipped them with practical knowledge of sustainable living but also motivated them to adopt eco-friendly habits.
The center's zero-waste initiatives, solar energy projects, and community-driven efforts left a profound impact on all participants. The students actively engaged, learned solar cooking techniques, and shared their thoughts.
Some student reflections included:
• Asha Hirpara: This visit reinforced my belief in incorporating sustainability into social work.
• Bhumi Koradia: Observing solar cooking made me realize that small changes can play a significant role in environmental conservation.
• Devanshu Pathak: Dr. Palta's life journey inspired a sense of responsibility towards sustainable community development.
• Janak Kumar Bhadka: The serene environment of the center taught me about ethical living and discipline.
This journey proved to be a holistic learning experience for the students, encompassing emotional, social, and spiritual dimensions. They felt a deep connection with nature and committed to adopting sustainable practices in both their personal and professional lives.