The Valedictory Function of the Wings of Awareness environmental education programme was successfully conducted at Mary Matha Public School, marking the completion of the school’s participation in the project. The initiative was implemented by the Tropical Institute of Ecological Sciences (TIES) with the support of the Buimerc India Foundation, with the objective of fostering ecological awareness and nurturing bird observation skills among students through experiential learning.

Prior to the formal proceedings, a post-project survey was conducted among participating students and teachers to assess learning outcomes and the overall impact of the programme. The official function commenced with a prayer song by the school choir, setting a reflective tone for the event. The programme was anchored by student Joann Binil, who introduced the purpose and schedule of the gathering. The welcome address was delivered by Aryananda Baiju, who warmly welcomed the dignitaries, including Dr. Punnen Kurian (Director, TIES), Mr. Sarath Babu (Nature Education Officer, TIES), Ms. Suhaana (Project Officer, Wings of Awareness), Principal Sr. Valsamma John, teachers, and students.

The inaugural address was delivered by Principal Sr. Valsamma John, who emphasized the importance of learning from nature and highlighted the role of experiential education in shaping environmentally responsible individuals. She also appreciated the efforts of Teacher Manju Mary Cherian, Eco Club Coordinator and Wings of Awareness Chief Coordinator, for her dedicated guidance and commitment throughout the programme.

The valedictory address by Dr. Punnen Kurian highlighted the key outcomes of the project and commended the enthusiastic participation of students. He encouraged students to continue bird observation and biodiversity documentation beyond the programme, stressing that engagement with nature is a lifelong learning process. As a mark of appreciation, a memento was presented to the Principal in recognition of the school’s active cooperation.

The programme also included the distribution of Amateur Birder Certificates to top-performing students by Mr. Sarath Babu. Notably, five students from the school were ranked among the top 150 participants of the project. Joann Binil emerged as the top performer of the school, recording over 1000 observations on the CROW (Community Research on Wildlife) App, demonstrating exceptional commitment to documenting bird diversity. Certificates of appreciation were also awarded to participating teachers by the Principal in recognition of their support and encouragement.

Students and teachers shared their experiences, reflecting on their journey of learning to observe birds and understand biodiversity through direct engagement with nature. The felicitation address was delivered by Ms. Suhaana, who appreciated the impact of the programme and encouraged students to continue exploring nature with curiosity and dedication. She also expressed gratitude to TIES, the Buimerc India Foundation, and the school community for their support in successfully implementing the initiative.

The programme concluded with a vote of thanks by student Riya Rony, expressing appreciation to all those who contributed to the success of the project. The valedictory function served as a significant milestone, celebrating student achievements and reinforcing their commitment to observing, understanding, and conserving biodiversity.