2026-11-11

"I never knew there was so much to learn about snakes! The rescue tools and their uses were especially interesting," remarked an enthusiastic student of MGM Higher Secondary School, Pampady, Kottayam. The session sparked curiosity among the young learners, giving them a fresh perspective on snakes and helping them understand the importance of safety, awareness and coexistence.

The educational programme was conducted at MGM HS Pampady from 1:30 PM to 3:30 PM as part of the environmental education and awareness initiatives of the Tropical Institute of Ecological Sciences (TIES). The programme was supported by Samagata Foundation under Project CO-EXIST (Project ZERO-BITE, 2025–2030), a comprehensive school-based snakebite mitigation and conservation awareness initiative in Kerala that aims to promote snakebite prevention, improve public awareness and encourage peaceful human-snake coexistence.

The programme was inaugurated by Dr. Punnen Kurian, Director of TIES, who also introduced the students to the project and its objectives. Emily T. Aneesh, a student of the school, delivered the welcome speech, setting an enthusiastic tone for the session.

A total of 76 students participated in the interactive awareness session, which was led by Akhil Babu and Vishnu, trained SARPA-coordinated snake rescue volunteers who had received certificates in snake rescue training. Drawing from their practical field experience, they introduced students to different aspects of snake awareness, including snake identification, behaviour, ecological importance and safety measures during snake encounters. Their engaging explanations encouraged students to actively participate, ask questions and develop a better understanding of these often-misunderstood reptiles.

As part of the programme's awareness assessment, Nandana Viswam, Project Intern of Project CO-EXIST, introduced the students to the survey questionnaire and read out the questions, helping them understand and complete the survey sheets. This activity aimed to assess the students' existing knowledge and awareness of snakes and snakebite prevention.

The programme concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Lakshmi Nandana, a student of the school. The event was attended and supported by teachers Reni, Shalu and Elizabeth. The entire programme was efficiently coordinated by Sarath Babu, Nature Education Officer, TIES, whose support contributed to its smooth and successful execution.

The active participation and enthusiasm of the students made the session a meaningful learning experience. By combining interactive discussions with project-based awareness activities, the programme encouraged young learners to replace fear with knowledge and develop a greater appreciation for snakes and their important role in maintaining ecological balance.