2026-03-02

S.K.M High School, Kumarakom witnessed the culmination of the Wings of Awareness programme — a biodiversity education initiative implemented by the Tropical Institute of Ecological Sciences (TIES) with the support of the BUIMERC India Foundation. The valedictory function marked not just the completion of activities, but the consolidation of months of observation, documentation, and environmental learning.

The day began on a reflective note with the Post-Project Survey administered to both students and teachers. This participatory evaluation encouraged stakeholders to assess their learning trajectory, ecological understanding, and engagement with field-based bird monitoring activities carried out during the programme.

The official proceedings commenced with a heartfelt welcome address by Teacher Coordinator Praseetha P. R., who warmly received the TIES team—Mr. Sarath Babu, Mr. Ajaya Kumar M.N and MS. Suhaana, the Headmistress, fellow teachers—Hari P P & Abhilash P A, and students. She highlighted the collaborative spirit that shaped the implementation of Wings of Awareness at the school.

Headmistress Suja P. Gopal then delivered the inaugural address. Recalling the Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) signing day, she reflected on how the initiative evolved from a formal partnership into a dynamic learning journey. She acknowledged the structured sessions, field observations, and student participation that gradually cultivated ecological sensitivity within the school community.

As a symbol of successful collaboration, the school memento was formally handed over by the TIES team to S.K.M High School, Kumarakom — an emblem of shared commitment toward environmental education.

The valedictory address by Mr. Ajaya Kumar M.N., Bird Watching Expert, TIES, focused on sustaining curiosity beyond the programme period. He encouraged students to look at nature not merely as scenery, but as a living system requiring observation, respect, and protection. His remarks reinforced the idea that conservation begins with awareness and consistent engagement.

Certificates of Amateur Birder were distributed to the top-performing students—Anupama Anurag, Ardra Suresh, Arjun A S, Ganga Siby, K.S Saliha Fathima, Kalha Binu, Krishnavedha S and Sivanandana Pratheesh by Mr. Sarath Babu, Nature Education Officer, TIES, acknowledging their precision in observation and dedication to biodiversity documentation. Certificates of Appreciation for the teachers were presented by the Headmistress, recognizing their mentorship and coordination throughout the project.

The function concluded with a vote of thanks proposed by Teacher Hari P. P., who expressed gratitude to TIES, BUIMERC India Foundation, the school leadership, and the student participants for their collective effort in ensuring the programme’s success.

The valedictory ceremony at S.K.M High School, Kumarakom thus marked the end of the project phase — yet signified the beginning of a sustained environmental consciousness among its young learners.