Bhubaneswar: The official mascot and new logo for the UNICEF-led ‘Youth4Water Plus’ campaign were unveiled at Olly’s Land in Kalinga Stadium, Bhubaneswar.
Gracing the occasion, Chief Guest Dr. Dilip Tirkey, President, Hockey India, and Guest of Honour Dr. Gyana Das, Executive Director Odisha State Disaster Management Authority (OSDMA) Govt of Odisha made public the logo and mascot ‘Jolly’ which has been inspired by the concept of ‘Jal Se Jolly’.
The dignitaries congratulated UNICEF and all partners for the timely campaign aimed to sensitize youth to promote water conservation, sanitation, and climate action.
On the occasion, ‘Jolly’, dressed up in a trademark blue jersey of team India and a hockey stick in one hand, posed for a selfie with Olly, the turtle. For the unversed, Jolly typifies a young Odia girl on a mission to promote the cause of water, sanitation, and the environment.
A short thematic video, highlighting the journey of the ‘Youth4WaterPlus’ campaign was released at the event which was organised at the venue for the ongoing FIH Odisha Hockey Men’s World Cup.
Hockey India President Dilip Tirkey, said, “Youth, with their high level of potential and motivation, are the best agents of change for a new and sustainable world. Thus, the Youth4Water Plus campaign shall promote youth engagement in newer fields, like water preservation, and adapting to climate change, etc.”
Citing youth as the future leaders of climate resilience and sustainability, Pradeep Jena, Additional Chief Secretary cum Development Commissioner earlier wished the campaign success, through a video. Odisha State Disaster Management Authority (OSDMA), Govt of Odisha has joined hands as a partner of Youth4Water Plus.
The Youth4Water Plus campaign aims to engage youth as well as empower & inspire them to become agents of change for Water Conservation, Climate Resilience, and WASH (Water Sanitation and Hygiene). It also focuses on fostering innovation and entrepreneurship in these fields.
Shipra Saxena, WASH Specialist at UNICEF said, “We need to amplify messages about climate change and improve the lives of children and youth. As part of its commitment to child-centered actions and initiatives, UNICEF believes in bringing decision makers and influencers together with young people to not only raise awareness of issues that matter to young people but also to generate additional opportunities for action and initiative.”
The campaign at present is being supported by partners from diverse fields, including other UN bodies, government, non-government, corporate, media, and educational institutions. It has reached Lakhs of youth across the state over the past years.
Sabyasachi Hota, CGM OSDMA, Govt of Odisha also graced the occasion. The event was participated by officials of UNICEF Odisha and its partners, Volunteers of Youth4Water Plus campaign, and youngsters.