A two-week training programme on 'Bioresources and Biotechnology' for students of 10th standard was inaugurated at the MS Swaminathan Research Foundation (MSSRF) here by Mass Education Minister Rabi Narayan Nanda on April 8. It is supported by the Department of Biotechnology, Government of India.
MSSRF Director SV Ramana and Principal Scientist Saujanendra Swain also attended the inaugural function.
The aim of the programme is to create awareness among school children on immense biodiversity of our country, its conservation and sustainable utilization, besides making them aware of the latest advancement in biotechnology.
About 35 students from 27 schools across 25 districts are participating in the programme.
During the two weeks, the students will undergo various classes on conservation of bioresources, biodiversity, natural resource management and biotechnology.
Hands-on training will be provided on vermin composting, kitchen garden, herbarium preparation, value addition in rice and millets, vegetable cultivation, seed germination testing and blood grouping.
A four-day field visit will also be organised to Nalco, BIlT, Jeypore College of Pharmacy, Sericulture Research Station, KVK, RRTTS, Central Cattle Breeding Firm, Coffee Board, Spice Board, CSWCRTI and cashew industries etc. The students will interact with tribal communities to document their traditional knowledge and their conservation efforts.
They will be exposed to reserve forests, agricultural fields and rural environment.
On April 21, the students will observe the World Earth Day, where they will make an awareness rally, cleaning of villages and participate in a signature campaign.
Various completions including easy, debate, quiz, posters and models related to nature will be conducted.