Exploring “Rivers: Lifelines or Threats?” in the Round Square Geography Study Lab

Students from Round Square schools came together online for a Round Square Geography Study Lab, hosted by The British School, New Delhi, India, on the theme “Rivers: Lifelines or Threats?”

Designed for students aged 14+, the Geography Study Labs provide an opportunity for young people to share ideas, collaborate on real-world challenges, and deepen their understanding of key global topics through discussion and peer-led learning.

During this session, participants explored how rivers can be both vital sources of life and potential hazards for the communities that rely on them. In breakout Baraza groups, students worked together to develop policies for river management, tackling issues such as flooding, dam and reservoir construction, embankment maintenance, and sustainable water use. These policies were then showcased in posters created by the students below.

“Something interesting that we all learnt about was the C-Flood system—a new Indian government website-based flood warning system, which updates people up to two days before a flood will occur,” said Abeer (Year 11) from The British School, New Delhi. “The development of this system, and the mechanisms of how it works, was fascinating to me and to the other students.”

The students’ discussions delved into both the science and the human impact of river systems. Abeer added,

“One of the most thought-provoking parts of the session was when one student presented on the Kosi River, describing its devastating floods—thus its nickname, ‘the sorrow of Bihar’—and how it affected people. It was a very important thing to learn when truly discussing the consequences of rivers.”

Participants also reflected on how rivers connect communities, economies, and ecosystems across borders. Lisa (Year 11) shared,

“During the session, I learnt that rivers can become threats, but they also can serve as important systems that connect local communities together to support their livelihoods. Before, I had never realised how small-scale human actions, like improper waste disposal or unplanned urbanisation, can have such a large impact. It really changed how I think about environmental issues—they’re interconnected problems that require cooperation beyond just one region or country.”

The session also highlighted the importance of action at all levels, from individual initiatives to policy development. Lisa continued,

“We discussed what management policies already exist and how we could take action from a local community perspective. I was surprised to see how some regions lacked follow-up action after threats, like community-led clean-up projects that can influence government policy. It made me realise that environmental change should begin with individuals and local groups taking action.”

For Rafael (Year 11), the experience was both intellectually and culturally enriching:

“I believe the group really enjoyed the discussion on India’s special relationship with its rivers and the connection it shares like no other country. It was fascinating to listen to different perspectives from Indian cities like Delhi and Varanasi, and to see how the view of a river changes between them. Everyone could agree that these rivers flowing through their hometowns have always interested them, and that helped us in drafting our community solutions.”

Rafael added that leading the session boosted students’ skills and confidence:

“All the different student leaders felt comfortable presenting their infographics, speaking out during debates, and providing helpful insight during our community engagement solutions. What I hope they take away from these sessions are leadership and communication skills, as well as an expanded knowledge of how communities interact with their rivers.”

Throughout the RS Geography Lab, participants demonstrated cross-cultural teamwork and practical thinking about how local and global actions can align for sustainable water management. As Abeer reflected,

“The students in the Geography Lab were very eager and enthusiastic to work together with others from a range of backgrounds and locations. Through Round Square, we learnt how to communicate effectively, even despite time constraints and the fact that we were online.”

Lisa agreed, adding that the experience was transformative:

“Hosting and collaborating with peers from different parts of the region was both exciting and humbling. Although I was nervous at first, leading parts of the discussion helped me grow more confident in communicating. What I’ll take away most is the sense that environmental challenges are global, and it’s a shared responsibility for everyone to solve them together.”

About Round Square Study Labs

Round Square Study Labs offer a platform for global collaboration, where students engage in peer-led study sessions on academic and real-world themes. The Study Labs foster leadership, teamwork, and cross-cultural understanding, encouraging students to connect classroom learning with global citizenship.

Upcoming Round Square Study Labs also include History and Languages (English as an Additional Language, French, Spanish, and Mandarin), offering further opportunities for students to learn, share, and grow together across borders.

If your school is not yet a Round Square member but is interested in joining the network, the Study Labs are just one example of the many opportunities available for students and educators to collaborate , develop leadership, and bring learning to life beyond the classroom.