Assam Forest Minister Jayanta Mallabaruah has announced the ‘Nameri Wild Classroom’ initiative, taking learning into the wild. The department announced the launch of the scheme as an educational initiative, giving school and college students an opportunity to learn directly from nature at the Nameri Tiger Reserve.
In his announcement, the minister added that the initiative is open to students of Class VIII and above, including college students. The initiative offers two- and three-day residential learning programmes. He also added that through direct engagement with the forest ecosystem, students can develop a deeper understanding of wildlife, biodiversity and the importance of environmental conservation. The programme reflects a commitment to nurturing a generation that understands, appreciates and actively protects Assam’s rich natural heritage, he mentioned.
The programme includes birdwatching, guided forest walks, wildlife tracking and activities focused on river ecology. Students will also be given opportunities to experience rafting on the Jia-Bharali River and learn about the traditions and knowledge of local communities connected to the surrounding landscape.
The students will be guided by naturalists and forest personnel, helping them understand the relationship between wildlife, forests, rivers and people. Students are required to maintain field journals to record their observations and receive certificates upon completing the programme.
He pointed out that forests are living classrooms, offering lessons that cannot always be learnt from books alone. By bringing young people closer to nature, we can encourage curiosity, scientific thinking, environmental responsibility and a lasting appreciation for biodiversity, He added.
Nameri Tiger Reserve is an ideal setting for this experience, allowing students to observe the natural world while understanding why its protection matters. In his post on Social Media, he added that such initiatives can also inspire young people to explore careers and future opportunities in wildlife research, ecology and conservation.
Conservation begins with awareness and grows through participation. When children and young adults experience nature first-hand, they are more likely to become responsible stewards of the environment. Through Nameri Wild Classroom, Assam is investing not only in education but also in the future guardians of its forests and wildlife, he mentioned.
