RCE Thiruvananthapuram together with its major stakeholder the Centre for Innovation in Science and Social Action (CISSA) has won the Global Prize of the Education in Sustainable Development (ESD) Okayama Award for 2017 for the project 'Kerala Children’s Agricultural Science Congress'. The project was selected for the Award from among 11 nominated projects in the first-round of selection. As many as 44 applications from 29 countries competed for the Award.

The 7th Kerala Children’s Agricultural Science Congress (Kerala Balakrishi Shastra Congress- KBKSC) was organised to inspire an agrarian movement amongst students in the region. Kerala is emerging fast as a consumerist economy, and the children in the region are unaware of the rich heritage the Kerala State has in the field of agriculture. Traditional methodologies along with the modern approaches are being taught during the congress, where farmers join and showcase their work.

Children and students were encouraged to join hands with elders in making food for the future. The programme insisted on the very doctrines that were forgotten over the years to make the world more sustainable. The focal theme of the recently concluded KBKSC was “Organic Kerala: Healthy Kerala.” The congress included research paper presentations, an exhibition, cultural events and various competitions including a documentary film festival. Schools from all 14 districts of the state participated in the event.

The students heard from experts about sustainable agrarian culture. The students teamed up in groups of five and under guidance produced a project. One example was the task to present the results of different studies in innovative agriculture. Various scientific models, farm produce and technology innovations were on display. Different schools presented farming activities done on school grounds through photographs, charts and models. Several students also created documentaries.

Watch the video here.

Photos have been uploaded on facebook.