On October 10, 2023, the Don Bosco Tech Thakurmunda Center welcomed its batch-5 students to a remarkable event - the very first guest lecturer session dedicated to the role of a Mushroom Grower. The session aimed to provide students with valuable insights into the world of mushroom cultivation as a specialized learning path.

Mr. Jogendra Sahu, an esteemed Field Officer from the Horticulture Department of the Government of Odisha, graced the occasion as the guest lecturer. Known for his efficiency and enthusiasm in the production of vegetables and fruits, Mr. Sahu brought a wealth of knowledge to the session.

The event kicked off with a warm welcome by Mr. Jagadish Prasad Swain, the domain trainer for Mushroom Grower. He introduced and extended a heartfelt welcome to Mr. Jogendra Sahu, setting the stage for an enlightening lecture.

During his presentation, Mr. Sahu highlighted the significance of mushrooms, which have been valued for their medicinal and nutritional properties in societies worldwide. In India, mushrooms are even used in Ayurveda and traditional folk medicine. He emphasized the country's vast agricultural landscape and the abundance of agro-waste, which serves as a critical resource for mushroom cultivation.

Mushrooms thrive under specific conditions, and mushroom farms are carefully controlled indoor environments that mimic nature's ideal parameters. Each variety of mushroom requires precise levels of heat, humidity, and air flow. Mr. Sahu shared a pro-tip, advising against storing mushrooms in plastic bags and suggesting the use of their original packaging or a clean brown paper bag for proper ventilation.

Guest lectures offer a unique opportunity for trainees to interact with experts in a specific field. It becomes a learning experience where participants can ask questions and gain insights from real-world experiences. Mr. Sahu shared the remarkable initiatives aimed at female empowerment through mushroom production, enabling women to acquire farming skills, financial independence, and self-respect.

The session concluded with Mr. Sahu fielding questions from the students and offering advice on cultivating mushrooms as a business venture. He expressed his best wishes for their future endeavors. The event ended with a heartfelt thank you to Mr. Sahu, showing appreciation for his time and dedication to educating the students.