Rural libraries in Karnataka are evolving into vibrant centers of knowledge and nature appreciation! In an exciting initiative, 5900 rural libraries across the state were rebranded as ‘Arivu Kendras’—centers of knowledge. We were thrilled to be part of the official launch on March 4, 2024, spearheaded by Minister for Rural Development and Panchayat Raj, Priyank Kharge, along with Additional Chief Secretary Uma Mahadevan and Commissioner Priyanka Francis.
Introducing Nature Into Rural Libraries
In collaboration with the Karnataka Panchayat Raj Commission, we have helped in enhancing these spaces. Our contribution? Equipping 500 of these rural libraries with our specially designed Nature Education Kit in Kannada (ಪ್ರಕೃತಿಯ ಪೆಟ್ಟಿಗೆ) and training 500 librarians to become bird educators throughout March 2024. This initiative aims to foster a deep connection between children and nature, promoting nature education in a fun and interactive manner.
Kicking Off with Training and Enthusiasm
Our journey began with a comprehensive two-day ‘Train the Trainers’ workshop at the Mahatma Gandhi Institute for Rural Energy and Development (MGIRED) in Bengaluru. Abhisheka Krishnagopal from Early Bird led this training, preparing a team of 10 experienced nature educators from diverse regions across Karnataka. These educators are now poised to conduct workshops for librarians statewide, utilizing the nature education kits to spark curiosity and knowledge about the natural world.
Meet Our Dedicated Nature Educators
A special shoutout goes to our dedicated team of nature educators: Aravind Kudla, Deepak D, Guruprasad K R, Hareesha A S, Kiran Bagade, Kumudwathi, Mahesh S Yamoji, Prajwal Deep, Puneet B S, Rajesh Kumar M, and Vivekanand B. Their expertise and enthusiasm are driving positive change in rural libraries, one step at a time.
Our team of nature educators traveled across 31 districts of Karnataka, training 500 Gram Panchayat librarians to become bird educators. Familiar with their regions, these trainers have brought a wealth of local knowledge to the program, ensuring that rural libraries become vibrant hubs for learning about Karnataka’s diverse birdlife.
Making Headlines
Our project has garnered attention in major news outlets, including Deccan Herald, Times of India, and The Hindu. The spotlight on this initiative helps amplify our goal to connect children with nature through rural libraries.
Introducing the Nature Education Kit: ‘Prakritiya Pettige’
Central to this initiative is the Nature Education Kit, ‘Prakritiya Pettige’, curated by Early Bird and Nature Classrooms. This comprehensive kit, designed in Kannada, is perfect for classrooms or libraries and is packed with resources to engage children and ignite their interest in nature.
What’s Inside the Kit?
- Birds and Plant Posters
- Birds of Karnataka Pocket Guides
- Set of 40 Flashcards about the common birds of Karnataka
- Creative Activities – Join-the-Dots and Folk-art bird activity sheets
- Games – Bird Survivor, Match the Beak, Bird and Season Bingos, Jigsaw Puzzle
- Story Book and Natural History booklets
All materials are in Kannada, ensuring accessibility and engagement for children across Karnataka. The Nature Education Kit in Kannada—’Prakritiya Pettige’—is now available for purchase on our online store.
Stay tuned for more updates and join us in spreading the joy of learning and nature appreciation across Karnataka’s rural communities.