Leh, May 07 : In an effort to strengthen field-based scientific learning, the Department of Botany, University of Ladakh, Leh Campus, on Wednesday organised a one-day exposure-cum-study tour for students to the School of Agriculture Science and Technology (SAST) at Stakna, the Sewage Treatment Plant (STP) at Agling, and the Fecal Sludge Treatment Plant (FSTP) in Leh.
The educational tour, led by Dr. Konchok Dorjey, Coordinator of the Botany Department, along with Assistant Professor Dr. Mohd Shabir, focused on providing students with practical exposure to agricultural innovation, environmental sustainability and waste management systems operating in high-altitude regions.
At SAST Stakna, students were introduced to scientific soil analysis procedures and laboratory instrumentation by Dr. Padma Angmo. The delegation also visited the Arboretum and herbal garden under the guidance of Dr. Kunzes Angmo, where students studied indigenous plant diversity and medicinal species adapted to Ladakh’s climatic conditions.
The academic interaction further explored modern agricultural practices suited to cold desert ecosystems. Dr. Sonam Spaldon familiarised the students with greenhouse technologies and advanced vegetable propagation techniques designed for high-altitude cultivation.
The exposure tour later moved to the STP at Agling, where students received a practical demonstration on sewage treatment processes from Tanveer. At the FSTP Leh, Gyatso briefed the participants on fecal sludge management and treatment mechanisms aimed at improving sanitation and environmental protection.
Faculty members described the programme as an attempt to bridge classroom learning with field-level application, enabling students to understand the scientific and ecological challenges associated with sustainable agriculture and urban waste management in Ladakh.
Concluding the visit, Dr. Konchok Dorjey expressed gratitude to Vice Chancellor of the University of Ladakh, Saket Kushwaha, and Registrar Nawang Tundup for their continued support and encouragement. He also thanked the faculty members of SAST Stakna and officials of the STP and FSTP for facilitating what he termed an enriching learning experience for the students.
