2025-09-26

The Wings of Awareness project, launched by the Tropical Institute of Ecological Sciences (TIES) conceived and supported by Buimerc India Foundation,is a distinctive learning initiative that uses bird watching as a gateway for students to explore the natural world. Instead of relying only on textbooks, the programme encourages children to step outdoors, observe closely, and build an intimate connection with their environment. Through this approach, students not only develop a love for nature but also cultivate essential qualities such as attentiveness, patience, and sharper focus—skills that can positively influence their academics as well as their personal growth. The project will be implemented across 20 schools in Kottayam District, engaging around 1,000 students and 60 teachers.

Merlin Jobi, student representative of St. Joseph’s CGHS  has extended warm greetings to the gathering and to the TIES team.The inaugural address was delivered by Ms. Suminamol K. John, Headmistress of the school. In her inspiring talk, she recalled her own fondness for feather collection and lamented how today’s younger generation often fails to value the richness of nature and the life around them. She described Wings of Awareness as a golden opportunity for her students to rediscover their surroundings and build a meaningful relationship with the natural world.

As part of her address, the Headmistress also gave a detailed introduction of Dr. Punnen Kurian, acknowledging his decades of pioneering work in environmental outreach, conservation education, and public engagement. She praised his relentless efforts in inspiring people across generations to appreciate and protect biodiversity, going so far as to describe him as a “Prophet of Nature.” Her words created a sense of admiration and respect for the resource person among the students before his session began.

The introductory remarks were then delivered by Dr. Punnen Kurian, Director of TIES, who outlined the vision and objectives of the programme. He explained how bird watching fosters patience, attentiveness, and responsibility, while helping students discover the intricate relationships between species and ecosystems.

A short survey session followed to assess the students’ initial knowledge and interest in birds and their environment.

The main academic session was again conducted by Dr. Kurian, who led an interactive class on birds and bird watching. Students listened attentively, asked questions, and answered with confidence, showing genuine interest in the subject. His session combined scientific insights with simple observation techniques, making the activity both accessible and inspiring.

The next session was led by Ms. Suhaana, Project Officer of Wings of Awareness, who introduced the CROW(Children's Resources for Ornithology and Wilderness) app, a digital platform created for the programme. She guided the students on how to use the app to record bird sightings and contribute to citizen science.

The orientation class at St. Joseph’s CGHS, Kottayam, turned out to be an inspiring experience that blended expert knowledge with student enthusiasm. The Headmistress’s powerful words, the expert sessions, and the distribution of resource kits together set the stage for a meaningful journey under the Wings of Awareness project, encouraging students to view nature with deeper respect and curiosity.

The programme was coordinated by Ms. Mary Lima A.P, Chief Teacher Coordinator of St. Joseph’s CGHS, Kottayam   and Aparna Raj, Intern from TIES.