2026-03-02

The Valedictory Function of Wings of Awareness, an environmental education initiative of the Tropical Institute of Ecological Sciences (TIES), supported by the BUIMERC India Foundation, was conducted with enthusiasm and pride at Sacred Heart High School, Pangada, marking the successful culmination of the programme in the institution.

The programme commenced with a warm and gracious welcome address by Teacher Rani John. She extended heartfelt greetings to the TIES team members — Dr. Punnen Kurian, Sarath Babu, Ajaya Kumar and Suhaana — along with the Headmaster, teachers and students who gathered to celebrate the occasion. She also acknowledged the generous support of BUIMERC India Foundation, whose partnership made the implementation of this environmental education initiative possible.

The inaugural address was delivered by Headmaster Mr. Rejimon V.M., who congratulated the student participants for their commendable involvement and expressed sincere gratitude to TIES and the sponsoring partner, BUIMERC India Foundation, for selecting Sacred Heart High School as one among the few institutions chosen for the programme. He highlighted how such collaborations significantly enhance students’ experiential learning beyond the classroom.

Following this, Dr. Punnen Kurian delivered the valedictory address. He reflected on the objectives, field experiences, and outcomes of Wings of Awareness, emphasizing the importance of cultivating ecological literacy and nurturing young minds to become responsible custodians of biodiversity. He also acknowledged the vision and support of BUIMERC India Foundation in promoting environmental awareness among school students. As a mark of recognition, he formally presented the School Participation Certificate to Sacred Heart High School, Pangada.

A proud moment of the event was the distribution of the “Certificate of Amateur Birder” to 13 top-performing students from the school, who demonstrated exceptional dedication and skill in bird observation and documentation. Their consistent participation and scientific approach throughout the programme were widely appreciated.

Teachers who actively supported and participated in the initiative — Nelson Chacko, Merlin Rajan and Rani John — were honoured with Certificates of Appreciation, presented by Ajaya Kumar, in recognition of their valuable guidance and commitment to the programme’s successful execution.

Ajaya Kumar also addressed the gathering, offering an overview of the programme’s impact and outcomes. In his motivational remarks, he encouraged students to maintain a close and lifelong connection with nature, reminding them that conservation begins with awareness and personal responsibility.

Suhaana, Project Officer of Wings of Awareness, delivered a felicitation speech, congratulating the participants and appreciating the school’s systematic coordination and wholehearted involvement, which significantly contributed to the smooth implementation of the project.

The function concluded with a sincere vote of thanks delivered by Rani John, who expressed gratitude to the TIES team, BUIMERC India Foundation, the school leadership, teachers, and students for their collective effort in making the programme a meaningful and memorable experience.

The valedictory function marked the successful completion of the Wings of Awareness journey at Sacred Heart High School, Pangada, leaving behind inspired young birders and a strengthened commitment towards environmental stewardship.