To enhance the involvement of students in eco clubs within government schools, WWF India, in collaboration with the district administration of Kanniyakumari, introduced the Mission Iyarkai program. Unlike the previous year’s implementation of Mission Iyarkai solely in hi-tech schools—schools equipped with advanced computer lab facilities—this initiative in Kanniyakumari district extended to all government and government-aided schools.
The initiative entails adhering to a curriculum crafted by WWF India, commencing with the establishment of a green committee by students. Subsequently, students are tasked with conducting a school audit, surveying biodiversity on their school premises, and engaging with the local community. To foster active participation, the Kanniyakumari Nature Foundation has been enlisted as the local partner for the project. Our principal responsibility involves closely collaborating with schools, aiding them in comprehending the mission’s objectives, and actively involving students in field outings.
We recently organized a full-day field trip to the Kalikesam Eco Park area for the inaugural batch of high-performing students and teachers who demonstrated exceptional commitment to implementing the mission objectives in their respective schools. The event was inaugurated by the district collector, in the presence of the District Forest Officer and the Chief Education Officer from the collector’s office.
Upon arrival at the campsite, the students embarked on a trek through the forest to observe the biodiversity of the area. Guided by forest officials, members of the Kanniyakumari Nature Foundation (KNF), the district eco coordinator, and WWF officials, the students explored the forest. The forest department biologist was also on hand to provide guidance. From observing tiny tree hoppers to encountering roaming wild boars, both the students and their teachers delved into the rich diversity of the forest.
At the conclusion of the trail, the students were led to the colossal Thandri Maram, a Terminalia bellirica tree rumored to be centuries old. Here, the students gained insights into the significance of forests and, more specifically, the crucial role of ancient trees for the survival of humanity. They were also educated about the distinctions between natural forests and plantations, emphasizing why the former is consistently considered superior.
Following the outdoor activities, a classroom session was conducted, covering subjects such as climate change, biodiversity, snakes, and the Nilgiri tahr. To provide a firsthand experience with snakes, the students observed a Wall’s green vine snake near the Shola Awareness Center, where the session took place.
After lunch, the students participated in a riverside walk along the Kalikesam River. They learned about the impact of dams on biodiversity and the origin of rivers. Additionally, they had the opportunity to observe various species of butterflies and dragonflies in the vicinity.
Upon returning to the camp, a feedback session was conducted to gauge the day’s learnings. The teachers received Butterfly posters from The Nature and Butterfly Society (TNBS), Coimbatore, and Bird posters from Early Bird India. WWF India presented the students with Bird and Butterfly pamphlets to assist them in identifying biodiversity in their own surroundings.
In the Media about Mission Iyarkai
