When you think of nature education, what comes to mind? Maybe textbooks filled with diagrams or a documentary on TV. But imagine stepping into the very ecosystem you’re learning about—feeling the forest floor beneath your feet, hearing birdsong overhead, and seeing rare flora and fauna firsthand. That’s what students experienced during the transformative two-day Nature Camp organized by the Helping Everyone Live and Prosper Society popularly known as HELP Society.
This educational initiative was implemented under the Environment Education Programme (EEP), a dynamic scheme brought to life by the Assam Science Technology and Environment Council (ASTEC), Government of Assam, and supported by none other than the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Government of India.
Held at Vivekananda Vidyalaya High School and in the Hajong Tortoise Lake under the heart of the Langting-Mupa Reserve Forest, this camp wasn’t just an event—it was a journey. A journey into biodiversity, conservation, and the very soul of nature that surrounds us. With participants from various schools and guided by experts, this program sparked curiosity, critical thinking, and a newfound respect for the environment.
Collaborating Institutions and Their Roles
Behind every successful event lies a robust framework of collaboration and support. In this case, the Nature Camp was a concerted effort involving several stakeholders. The HELP Society, known for its active role in community-based educational initiatives, took the lead in organizing the camp. They ensured every detail—from content design to field logistics—was meticulously planned.
ASTEC played the role of the backbone for the implementation. Being Assam’s nodal agency for science and environmental programs, ASTEC ensured the camp aligned with broader goals of environmental literacy. Their expertise helped shape the content to be both scientifically accurate and age-appropriate.
The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Government of India, provided essential backing and policy-level support. Their endorsement helped add credibility and scale to the initiative, emphasizing the national importance of such ground-level environmental programs.
Together, these organizations created a seamless blend of planning, execution, and impact—paving the way for an educational experience that students will likely remember for a lifetime.
Day 1: Theoretical Groundwork
Setting the Stage at Vivekananda Vidyalaya High School
Day 1 of the camp unfolded at Vivekananda Vidyalaya High School, Haflong where anticipation buzzed through the air. The classroom transformed into a hub of ideas, discussions, and shared enthusiasm for the environment. Here, the foundation was laid. Before stepping into the forest, students needed to understand what they were about to explore—and why it mattered.
The sessions were curated to introduce students to the beauty and complexity of nature. But they weren’t just passive listeners. Students were constantly encouraged to ask questions, draw on their previous knowledge, and engage with the subject matter deeply. This helped break the ice and foster a collaborative environment among the students.
Educators began by giving a broad overview of biodiversity and conservation. Why do we protect nature? What does biodiversity even mean in our daily lives? These questions were answered with relatable examples and interactive storytelling. As students began to grasp the gravity of biodiversity loss, the urgency of conservation became more personal and less abstract.
Thematic Focus: Biodiversity and Conservation
The main theme of the first day was “Understanding Biodiversity and the Need for Conservation.” It might sound academic, but the facilitators made it come alive. Students learned that biodiversity isn’t just about animals in the wild—it’s about ecosystems, balance, and the intricate relationships between living organisms and their habitats.
The spotlight then shifted to the specific locales they would visit: Hajong Tortoise Lake and Langting-Mupa Reserve Forest. These are not just scenic spots—they’re living examples of rich biodiversity. Students discovered that Hajong Tortoise Lake is a hidden gem nestled in the Langting Mupa Reserve Forest, home to numerous species of flora and fauna. But it’s not just beauty that defines it—these ecosystems are fragile, and understanding their value is crucial for their preservation.
One of the key takeaways was how human activities threaten these habitats. Deforestation, pollution, and climate change were discussed not as distant issues but as real, tangible problems with local implications. This grounded approach made students think about their lifestyle and how it intersects with nature.
Interactive Learning Sessions and Activities
Discussions on Hajong Tortoise Lake and Langting-Mupa Reserve Forest
In a detailed multimedia session, students were virtually transported to the Langting-Mupa Reserve Forest and Hajong Tortoise Lake. Through visuals, anecdotes, and expert talks, they learned about the lake’s ecological importance, especially its role in supporting endemic tortoise species and rare aquatic plants.
The forest area surrounding the lake was introduced as a biodiversity hotspot. Students saw pictures of rare birds, medicinal plants, and even tracks left behind by wild animals. This virtual sneak peek was not only educational but also sparked excitement for the upcoming field trip.
Engaging Quiz Rounds to Test Environmental Knowledge
To wrap up the day, a lively quiz round was conducted. It wasn’t your typical pop quiz—it was a high-energy, competitive activity where students formed teams, answered rapid-fire questions, and even debated environmental issues. Questions ranged from basic environmental terms to in-depth topics about ecosystems and conservation strategies.
What made it special was the spirit of participation. Even students who were usually shy found themselves jumping in with answers and cheering for their teammates. This gamified learning method not only tested their understanding but also reinforced the key concepts discussed throughout the day.
Day 2: Immersive Field Experience at Hajong Tortoise Lake
The second day brought students closer to nature as they embarked on a field visit to the picturesque Hajong Tortoise Lake, located within the Langting-Mupa Reserve Forest. Guided by Master Resource Persons, dedicated Resource Persons, and officials from the Dima Hasao Forest Department (East Division), the students observed firsthand the rich biodiversity of the area.
This immersive experience allowed participants to witness various species of flora and fauna, deepening their understanding of ecological balance, wildlife conservation, and the role of natural ecosystems in sustaining life. The hands-on learning approach fostered curiosity and helped strengthen their connection with the environment.
Throughout the tour, students actively engaged in discussions and observations, gaining insights into real-world conservation efforts. The presence of experts further enriched the experience, providing in-depth explanations and encouraging young minds to think critically about environmental issues.
Fostering Future Environmental Leaders
As part of the camp’s educational outcomes, students were encouraged to prepare a report reflecting on their learnings and the importance of preserving natural habitats. These reports aim to reinforce their responsibility and role in safeguarding the environment.
The Nature Camp not only served as a platform for experiential learning but also planted the seeds of environmental consciousness in young hearts. By bridging classroom learning with real-life exposure, the initiative empowered students to become dedicated advocates for a greener, sustainable future.
HELP Society extends heartfelt gratitude to ASTEC, the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, and the Dima Hasao Forest Department for their unwavering support and collaboration. Together, through such meaningful initiatives, we continue to nurture a love for nature and inspire a generation committed to environmental stewardship.
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