2026-05-02

The Tropical Institute of Ecological Sciences (TIES) successfully conducted the valedictory session of the first batch of the FYUGP History Internship Programme on 2nd May 2026, marking the culmination of a month-long Research and Community Internship that commenced on 1st April 2026.

The programme brought together 18 undergraduate students from across institutions, including HB College, Melukavu, CMS College, and BK College, Amalagiri, offering them a dynamic platform to engage in interdisciplinary learning, research, and community-based exposure. Throughout the internship, participants were trained in key thematic areas such as Oral History, Visual Photo Analysis, Environmental History, Environmental Economics, and Mapping Techniques. A specialised session on Geographic Information Systems (GIS) by Dr. Abin Varghese further enhanced their technical competencies.

The valedictory session was distinguished by the presence of eminent historians, Prof. Aditya Mukherjee and Prof. Mridula Mukherjee (Retd.), Centre for Historical Studies, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi, who graced the occasion as Chief Guests. Their visit included an interaction at the TIES Farmer Producer Company (FPC), where Dr. Punnen Kurian, Director, TIES, briefed them on the organisation’s diverse initiatives and ongoing work.

In their inspiring valedictory address, the Chief Guests commended the thoughtful design and academic depth of the internship programme. They reflected on their own journeys into the field of history, sharing valuable insights on developing passion, critical inquiry, and academic commitment. They also highlighted their teaching experiences at Jawaharlal Nehru University, emphasizing the importance of student engagement and intellectual curiosity. Addressing the interns, they encouraged young scholars to see themselves as future historians capable of contributing meaningfully to the discipline.

The session was further enriched by the presence of Dr. Punnen Kurian,  Dr. Sebastian Joseph, Dr. Nisha, Dr. Malavika Binny, and Dr. Tintu. Certificates were distributed to the interns by the Chief Guests, followed by participant reflections that highlighted the knowledge, exposure, and experience gained during the programme.

The event was coordinated by Jijomon P P, Megha M M, Avany P R, and Surya S K from TIES.

Through the FYUGP Internship Programme, TIES continues to foster research aptitude, critical thinking, and a deeper understanding of environmental and social dimensions, reaffirming its commitment to nurturing the next generation of researchers and scholars.