2025-09-15

The Wings of Awareness project, an amateur birdwatching and naturalist education initiative implemented by the Tropical Institute of Ecological Sciences (TIES) conceived and supported by Buimerc India Foundation, is being conducted in selected schools of Kottayam district. The programme is designed to help students connect with nature through the fascinating world of birds and aims to nurture a new generation of environmental conservationists.The project will be implemented across 20 schools in Kottayam District, engaging around 1,000 students and 60 teachers.

As part of this initiative, the third orientation session of the project was held at Crossroads English School, Pampady. The session was attended by the selected students of the programme along with the teachers coordinating the activities at the school. 

The gathering was welcomed by Mrs. Bindu K. Nair, Headmistress. The inaugural address was then delivered by Mr. Abhilash S., Principal, who stressed the importance of cultivating environmental awareness and a culture of observation among students.

The project introduction was delivered by Dr. Punnen Kurian, Director of TIES, who explained the vision, objectives, and significance of the Wings of Awareness programme. Following this, a baseline survey was conducted for both students and teachers using structured questionnaires to assess their existing knowledge, interests, and perspectives on birds and nature.

A one-hour interactive class on birds was conducted by Mr. Sarath Babu, Nature Education Officer, TIES, who provided participants with essential knowledge about bird identification, ecology, and the role of birds in biodiversity conservation. The session encouraged lively interaction, curiosity, and active participation from the students.

To aid their learning journey, participants were provided with resource kits comprising a Naturalist’s Diary, Field Guide on Birds, notepads, and pencils. Additionally, Suhaana, Project Officer – Wings of Awareness, introduced the CROW (Children’s Resources for Ornithology and Wilderness) App, demonstrating how it can be effectively used as a digital tool for recording birdwatching observations. Further instructions on utilizing the naturalist kit and guidance for the upcoming birdwatching sessions were also provided by Dr. Punnen Kurian. 

This orientation session laid a firm foundation for the students of Crossroads English School to embark on their journey as budding naturalists. By equipping them with the right tools, knowledge, and inspiration, the Wings of Awareness project continues to foster an early passion for nature conservation and birdwatching among young learners.

The event was organized under the leadership of Mrs. Bindu K. Nair, Headmistress, together with teacher coordinators Mrs. Prathibhamol P.P., Mrs. Jeena Jacob, and Mrs. Saramma V.P and Sruthy Shaji, Intern from TIES.