2026-03-28

The Annual Closing Ceremony of the Wings of Awareness Programme for the academic year 2025–2026 was conducted at the TIES campus in a dignified and meaningful manner. Representatives from 12 out of the 20 participating schools attended the programme. The gathering was organised exclusively for teacher coordinators, Heads of Institutions, and selected students in order to appreciate their valuable contribution towards the successful completion of the project.

The session began with a silent prayer in memory of the late Dr. A. P. Thomas, patron of TIES, who had made significant contributions to the welfare and growth of the institution. The welcome address was delivered by Mr. Ajaya Kumar M. N., bird-watching expert and Board Member of TIES, who introduced the organisation, outlined the objectives of the Wings of Awareness Programme, and expressed appreciation to Buimerc India Foundation for its support. He also formally welcomed the dignitaries on the dais, including Dr. Punnen Kurian (Director of TIES), Dr. G. Prasad (ACF, Forest and Wildlife Department), and Mr. Sarath Babu N. B. (Nature Education Officer).

The Presidential Address was delivered by Dr. Punnen Kurian, who shared insights on the impact and outcomes of the programme and encouraged both teachers and students to continue their efforts in nature awareness and conservation. The Inaugural Address by Dr. G. Prasad highlighted the importance of birds in our surroundings and appreciated the role of TIES in building environmental awareness among students and schools.

The highlight of the ceremony was the Award Distribution Session. The Best School Awards were presented to AKJM HSS Kanjirappally, which recorded more than 7000 observations and 124 bird species on the CROW App, and Government U.P. School Velluthuruthy, which recorded more than 6000 observations along with more than 90% active student participation.

The Best Teacher Coordinator Awards were presented to Mrs. Nisha Raj (GUPS Velluthuruthy) and Mrs. Mary Lima (St. Joseph’s CGHS, Kottayam) in recognition of their dedication and consistent support to the students. The Best Head of the Institution Award was presented to Mrs. Reena Manmadhan, Headmistress of GUPS Velluthuruthy, for her unwavering support towards the successful implementation of the programme.

The Best Amateur Birder Awards were bagged by Ameya Dileep (Mattakkara HSS), who recorded more than 1780 observations and over 200 bird-watching sessions, Harsha T. H. (AKJM HSS Kanjirappally) with 1377 observations and more than 200 sessions, and Nourin Naveed (AKJM HSS Kanjirappally) with 1278 observations and 144 sessions. A Special Award for Best Supporting Parent was presented to Mrs. Cinja Paul, parent of Aeiden S. Thuthoottikkan from GUPS Ericadu, in recognition of the strong support extended to the student throughout the project.

Following the award distribution, the remaining school reports were handed over to the respective schools. This was followed by a reflection-sharing session, which became one of the most meaningful segments of the programme. Teacher coordinators, Heads of Institutions, parents, and students shared their experiences and appreciated the positive impact of the Wings of Awareness Programme. Among those who shared their reflections were A. Abraham (Manager, Amayannoor High School), Mrs. Reena Manmadhan (Headmistress, GUPS Ericadu), Mr. Dileep (parent of Ameya Dileep), Harsha T. H. (AKJM HSS Kanjirappally), Principal Abhilash (Crossroads School, Pampady), Mrs. Preeja S. (Excelsior English School), Mrs. Nisha Raj (Teacher Coordinator, GUPS Velluthuruthy), Mrs. Mary Lima (Teacher Coordinator, St. Joseph CGHS, Kottayam), student Nourin Naveed (AKJM HSS Kanjirappally), and Mrs. Preetha (Muslim Girls HSS, Erattupetta). They highlighted how the programme encouraged students to explore nature more actively and helped strengthen environmental awareness in schools.

Towards the end of the programme, Ms. Suhaana, Project Officer, shared a few words about her journey with the programme and expressed heartfelt gratitude to Buimerc India Foundation, TIES, teacher coordinators, Heads of Institutions, students, parents, and colleagues for their valuable support. The programme concluded with the Vote of Thanks delivered by Mr. Sarath Babu, followed by the National Anthem, marking the successful completion of the Wings of Awareness Programme 2025–2026.