2024-05-21

The TIES Junior Naturalist Certificate course is a fifteen-day nature camp designed to instill a deep love for nature and life in children through structured nature studies. The course provides participants with a comprehensive understanding of natural resources and the essential knowledge needed to protect them. This year, 18 children were recognized as Junior Naturalists. The Junior Naturalist Awarding ceremony was inaugurated by Mr. K B Subash, Assistant Conservator of Forest, Social Forestry Division, Kottayam. During the event, speeches were given by Dr. Punnen Kurian, Secretary of TIES; Dr. Abraham Samuel K, President of TIES; Dr. A.P. Thomas, Head of ACESSD MG University; Dr. Sebastian Joseph, Head of the Environmental History Division of TIES; and Dr. Bindhu B K, Head of the Environmental Engineering Division of TIES. A pre- and post-evaluation conducted through parents revealed that children's screen time decreased, and their awareness and enthusiasm for nature increased. Parents noted that their children began to enjoy and observe nature more keenly. Yameema R S was honored as the Best Junior Naturalist, and three other participants, Eva Varghese, Christa Sara Sleeba, and Roy Babu Joshy, were recognized for their outstanding performance.