2026-03-04

The valedictory function of the Wings of Awareness initiative was conducted at Government U.P. School, Ericadu, marking the successful completion of the environmental education programme implemented by the Tropical Institute of Ecological Sciences (TIES) with the support of the Buimerc India Foundation. The programme celebrated the collective efforts of students, teachers, and the school community who actively participated in bird observation and biodiversity learning throughout the project.

Prior to the formal proceedings, the Post-Project Survey was conducted for both students and teachers, allowing participants to evaluate their learning experiences and the impact of the programme. This reflective component provided valuable insight into the knowledge and observational skills gained during the project.

The official session began with a soulful prayer song presented by the school choir, creating a calm and respectful atmosphere for the event.

The welcome address was delivered by Teacher Coordinator Sri Akhil Devarajan, who warmly received the TIES team, Headmaster-in-Charge Sri Sam Kumar, PTA President Sri Siril V. R., teachers, and students. In his address, he expressed appreciation for the opportunity given to the school to be part of the initiative and acknowledged the enthusiasm with which students participated.

The Presidential Address was delivered by PTA President Sri Siril V. R., who praised the school for successfully implementing such an innovative programme. He also expressed sincere gratitude to TIES for bringing the Wings of Awareness initiative to the institution and for fostering environmental consciousness among young learners.

Headmaster-in-Charge Sri Sam Kumar then delivered the inaugural address. His speech highlighted the ecological importance of birds and the role they play in maintaining balance in nature. He congratulated the students for their active participation and made the session interactive by engaging them in discussions about their bird observation experiences.

The valedictory address was delivered by Dr. Punnen Kurian (Director of TIES). In his remarks, he recognized the commendable efforts of the school management in implementing the project despite the constraints often faced by government schools in adopting such initiatives. He particularly appreciated the dedication of the teachers who ensured that 100% of the students were actively engaged on the CROW app, an achievement that reflected the school’s strong commitment to experiential learning. He encouraged students to continue observing nature and practicing field-based learning even after the conclusion of the project.

Following the address came one of the most anticipated segments of the event — the certificate distribution ceremony. The School Participation Certificate was formally handed over by Dr. Punnen Kurian to Headmaster-in-Charge Sri Sam Kumar. Certificates for the top-performing students were distributed by Mr. Sarath Babu, recognizing their dedication and enthusiasm in documenting bird observations. Certificates of Appreciation for the teachers were presented by PTA President Sri Siril V. R., acknowledging their guidance and commitment throughout the programme.

An engaging segment of the programme followed, where students and teachers shared their experiences from the Wings of Awareness journey. Among the highlights was the heartfelt reflection by Teacher Cinja Paul. Speaking both as a teacher and as the mother of a participating student, she expressed immense joy at the positive impact of the programme. She shared how her own interest in bird watching grew alongside her son’s participation, making the experience deeply personal and enriching. Her reflection beautifully illustrated how the initiative extended learning beyond the classroom and into family life.

A felicitation speech was delivered by Ms. Suhaana, Project Officer of Wings of Awareness, who congratulated the school for its enthusiastic participation and commended the teachers and students for their dedication to the programme.

The function concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Cinja Paul, expressing sincere gratitude to the TIES team, BUIMERC India Foundation, the school administration, PTA, teachers, and students who collectively contributed to the success of the initiative.

The valedictory ceremony at Government U.P. School, Ericadu thus marked the end of a remarkable journey under the Wings of Awareness programme — a journey that nurtured curiosity, strengthened ecological awareness, and inspired young learners to remain connected with nature.