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From Medicinal Plants to Lake Ecosystems: Pharma students explore nature’s pharmacy
A hands-on learning experience in medicinal plants and sustainable water management for Apeejay Stya University students
D. Pharm (Diploma in Pharmacy) students of Apeejay Stya University, Gurugram recently undertook an educational visit to Hauz Neel Biodiversity Park, Delhi, as part of their experiential learning programme. The visit offered valuable insights into the park’s rich biodiversity and the innovative water treatment technologies employed for effective lake water management. Designed to bridge classroom learning with real-world exposure, the visit proved to be both academically enriching and environmentally enlightening for the budding pharmacy professionals.
During the visit, students explored the diverse flora within the biodiversity park, with particular focus on medicinal plant species. The park, known for its ecological diversity and conservation efforts, served as a live laboratory where students could closely observe plant morphology, growth patterns, and natural habitats. Guided observations enabled them to understand the importance of plant identification, classification, and documentation—skills that are crucial in pharmaceutical sciences.
A key highlight of the visit was the active collection of herbarium specimens by the students. Through this hands-on activity, they learned the systematic method of collecting, pressing, preserving, and labeling plant samples for academic reference. This exercise strengthened their practical understanding of pharmacognosy, a core subject in the D. Pharm curriculum that deals with medicinal plants and natural drug sources. By examining plant characteristics firsthand, students gained clarity on identifying authentic medicinal species and differentiating them from similar varieties.
The visit also provided exposure to the ecological balance maintained within the lake ecosystem. Students observed how biodiversity contributes to environmental sustainability and how water treatment mechanisms help in maintaining water quality. Understanding lake water management techniques broadened their awareness of environmental health and its direct link to public health—an essential perspective for pharmacy professionals. Clean water systems and ecological preservation play a significant role in preventing disease and supporting community well-being.
Such educational visits are particularly important for D. Pharm students as they connect theoretical knowledge with field-based learning. While textbooks provide detailed descriptions of medicinal plants and environmental systems, observing them in their natural setting deepens comprehension and retention. Experiential learning enhances critical thinking, observational skills, and scientific curiosity. It also fosters appreciation for sustainable practices and conservation efforts that ultimately impact healthcare systems.
Through this visit, students developed improved observational abilities, practical documentation skills, and a deeper understanding of the medicinal significance of plants. They also recognized the interdependence between environmental conservation and pharmaceutical sciences. The experience encouraged them to value natural resources as vital contributors to drug development and healthcare.
Overall, the visit to Hauz Neel Biodiversity Park was an enriching academic experience that reinforced the importance of biodiversity, sustainable water management, and practical learning. It not only enhanced subject knowledge but also nurtured environmental responsibility among future pharmacy professionals, making it a meaningful and impactful educational initiative.
