2026-10-26

“Seeing the laboratory facilities at TIES and understanding how water quality testing is conducted was an exciting experience,” shared Joshua M. Thomas and M. Shreyas of Class VIII A, The Baker Vidyapeedh Senior Secondary School, Kottayam, following their participation in Enjoy Learning—an educational programme organized by the Tropical Institute of Ecological Sciences (TIES).

The programme aimed to nurture scientific curiosity and environmental awareness through interactive sessions and hands-on learning. A total of 38 students explored the connections between science, biodiversity conservation, and sustainable living.

The programme began with an introductory session by Dr. Punnen Kurian, Director of TIES, who welcomed the students and introduced them to the institute’s work in ecological research, environmental education, and conservation. He highlighted the importance of understanding nature through observation, scientific inquiry, and practical experiences, setting the stage for a day of experiential learning.

At the TIES laboratory, Ms. Gopika, Laboratory Faculty, and Ms. Nandana, Laboratory Intern, introduced the students to the laboratory facilities and demonstrated various laboratory activities, including the procedures involved in water quality testing. The students gained insights into how scientific analysis helps assess water quality and contributes to environmental protection.

The session on mushroom farming, led by Ms. Raimol M. Thomas and Ms. Reshma S. Nair, Microbiology Faculty at TIES, introduced students to the fundamentals of mushroom cultivation. They learned about the basic requirements for growing mushrooms, the importance of suitable growing conditions, and the potential of mushroom farming as a sustainable livelihood practice.

The apiculture session was led by Mr. Sarath Babu N. B., Nature Education Officer at TIES, who introduced students to the ecological importance of honeybees, their role in pollination, and the potential of beekeeping as a sustainable livelihood. He also guided the students around the TIES campus, introducing them to its diverse flora and highlighting the importance of plant diversity in maintaining ecological balance. Surrounded by lush greenery, students gained a closer appreciation of the campus as a living classroom for nature education and biodiversity conservation.

The students expressed their enthusiasm for the laboratory demonstrations and their appreciation for the nature-rich campus. The programme was accompanied by teachers Ms. Anisha S., Ms. Annamma Abraham, and Ms. Emy Paulose, and concluded with a vote of thanks by Ms. Annamma Abraham.