Experiential Learning Program
Experiential education is all about learning by doing. Through hands-on activities, real-world projects, and immersive experiences, we help students and communities connect deeply with the environment and their surroundings. It’s not just about theory—it’s about action, discovery, and creating meaningful change.
Medicinal Plant Exposure Tour
On September 14-15, 2024, Navikru Eco Foundation organized a Medicinal Plant Exposure Tour at Purtikchey Sankoo, Kargil, bringing together 5 teachers and 46 students from Leh and Kargil to explore Ladakh’s rich biodiversity.
The tour began with an introductory session led by Preeti and medicinal plant expert Mr. Shabir Hussain Fayaz, where students learned about the scientific, local names, and uses of medicinal plants native to Kargil.
On Day 2, students participated in a Medicinal Plant Exposure Walk, guided by Mr. Fayaz, identifying various plants, their benefits, and practical applications. They documented their findings, creating valuable learning resources.
This immersive experience deepened students’ connection to Ladakh’s ecological heritage, fostering environmental responsibility and sustainability awareness.
Birdwatching Workshop for Leh Students
In September 2022, 22 students from eight Leh district schools embarked on a six-day birding journey to Hanley, Puga, Tsokar, Chuchot, and Shey, led by expert birding guide Padma Gyalpo. Ladakh’s unique terrain hosts a diverse array of migratory birds, and September provided an ideal window for this adventure.During the excursion, students identified over 40 bird species, creating a truly memorable and educational experience.
As a creative extension, students were encouraged to sketch the observed birds. Now, Navikru proudly presents the ‘Birds of Ladakh By Students of Ladakh’ booklet, showcasing their artistic talents and contributions. Explore the rich avian world through the eyes and sketches of Ladakh’s budding naturalists.
Teacher Nature Education Training
On July 27–28, 2024, Navikru Eco Foundation, in collaboration with the Jammu and Kashmir Association of Social Workers, organized a two-day teacher training on nature education in Kashmir. The training was led by Ms. Vena Kapoor & Ms. Ovee Thorat from Nature Classrooms and the training brought together 20 teachers from Kargil and Kashmir.
The sessions focused on:
- Nature-Based Learning: Practical strategies to integrate nature into daily lessons.
- Innovative Teaching Methods: Experiential and inquiry-based approaches.
- Hands-On Experience: A nature walk in a national park to explore local flora and fauna.
This initiative enhanced educators’ ability to inspire environmental awareness and sustainability in their classrooms.
Kargil Summer camp
Developing Thoughts, Strengthening Environment
In August 2022, the Navikru Eco Foundation orchestrated a groundbreaking three-day summer camp in Kargil, welcoming seventy students and teachers from ten government schools. This unique camp was aimed at fostering experiential learning, providing students with the opportunity to engage in diverse group activities centered around the three pillars of the Wipro Earthian Program: Waste, Water, and Biodiversity.
Adding an extra enrichment layer, the camp featured a session led by medicinal plant expert Mr. Shabir Hussain Fayaz. This immersive experience was the first of its kind, with the noteworthy participation of many girls who embarked on such a camp for the first time.
Zanskar Summer camp
Sowing Sustainability in Zanskar’s Heart
In September 2022, an immersive two-day summer camp unfolded at the Sani Community Hall in Zanskar. Engaging around twenty-eight students and teachers from four government schools and one nunnery, the camp was part of the Wipro Earthian program.
This unique experience delved into experiential learning with a specific focus on Waste and Biodiversity themes, harnessing diverse regional knowledge. The participating schools also created visionary models for an ideal zero-waste village.