“Sharks are not monsters. They are a vital part of the ocean’s heartbeat.” — Anonymous
On July 14, 2025, the serene morning at SAI International Residential School (SIRS) was stirred by a wave of awareness and advocacy as students gathered for a compelling assembly in honour of Shark Awareness Day. Organised by the Department of Music, the event bore the impactful theme: “Dive into Action: Protecting Our Oceans’ Sentinels.”
The assembly commenced with a deeply resonant rendition of Rabindranath Tagore’s “Where the mind is without fear,” setting a tone of introspection and purpose. This was followed by the Word of the Day — “Anthropogenic” — drawing attention to the human-driven causes behind the endangerment of shark species, such as overfishing, pollution, and habitat destruction.
In keeping with the day’s theme, the Thought of the Day urged students to reflect on our shared responsibility to protect the voiceless creatures of the earth and preserve natural balance. Students were educated about the global significance of Shark Awareness Day, observed annually on July 14, with a mission to bust misconceptions about sharks and advocate for their crucial role in marine ecosystems.
In addition to environmental education, the assembly included global updates in news segments covering international, national, state, and sports affairs, offering students a broad awareness of the world they live in. The recitation of the National Pledge brought the assembly to a close, reinforcing values of commitment and national pride.
The event was not just a celebration of a day but a meaningful reminder of the interconnectedness between marine life and our planet’s well-being. Through this initiative, SIRS once again showcased its dedication to fostering not only academic and cultural excellence but also environmental consciousness among its students.
Saving sharks is not just about saving a species — it’s about keeping the oceans and securing a sustainable future for all.