2026-03-03

The Valedictory Function of the Wings of Awareness programme was successfully conducted at Crossroads School, Pampady, marking the conclusion of the environmental education initiative implemented at the school. Wings of Awareness, an environmental awareness programme led by the Tropical Institute of Ecological Sciences (TIES) with the support of Buimerc India Foundation, aims to foster ecological sensitivity among students through bird watching, nature observation, and biodiversity documentation.

Prior to the commencement of the formal proceedings, a post-project survey was conducted among the participating students and teachers to assess the outcomes and learning experiences gained through the programme.

The official session began with a serene prayer song performed by the school choir, setting a calm and reflective tone for the occasion. The programme was then anchored by Ashly K. Abin, who warmly welcomed the distinguished gathering. In the welcome address, the anchor greeted the members of the TIES team – Dr. Punnen Kurian (Director, TIES), Mr. Sarath Babu (Nature Education Officer, TIES), Mr. Ajaya Kumar M.N (Bird Watching Expert, TIES), and Ms. Suhaana (Project Officer – Wings of Awareness). The welcome was also extended to School Principal Mr. Abhilash S, Headmistress Mrs. Bindhu K. Nair, the teacher coordinators, and the participating students.

Following the welcome, Principal Mr. Abhilash S delivered the inaugural address, highlighting the importance of environmental education and appreciating the efforts of TIES in introducing students to the fascinating world of birds and biodiversity.

The valedictory address was delivered by Dr. Punnen Kurian, Director of TIES. In his speech, he spoke about the overall progress and achievements of the Wings of Awareness project, while also acknowledging the commendable performance of Crossroads School, Pampady in the programme. He further shared valuable insights into the broader impact of the initiative in nurturing environmental awareness and scientific curiosity among students.

Subsequently, Dr. Punnen Kurian was invited to present the school memento, symbolizing appreciation for the school’s active participation and collaboration in successfully implementing the programme.

The event then moved on to the recognition of student achievements, where certificates for the top-performing students were distributed by Mr. Ajaya Kumar M.N and Mr. Sarath Babu, acknowledging their enthusiastic participation and dedication throughout the project activities.

Following this, certificates of appreciation for the participating teachers were distributed by Principal Mr. Abhilash S, recognizing their valuable support and coordination in implementing the programme at the school level. After the certificate distribution, students shared their experiences from their Wings of Awareness journey, reflecting on how the activities helped them develop a deeper interest in bird watching and nature observation.

The programme concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Evaniya Anna Sheljio, who expressed gratitude to the TIES team, school administration, teachers, and students for their support and participation in making the Wings of Awareness programme a meaningful and memorable initiative at Crossroads School, Pampady.