Sri Vijaya Puram, Oct. 24: As part of an innovative learning initiative under the Samagra Shiksha framework, the Department of Education has organized an Exposure Visit to Barren Island Volcano for students of Government Schools. The programme aims to provide experiential and place-based learning opportunities, enabling students to connect classroom concepts with real-world observations.
A total of 125 students from Classes IX and XI, accompanied by 12 escort teachers (6 male, 6 female) and one Coordinator, are participating in the programme. Students have been selected from six educational blocks viz. South Andaman, Wimberlygunj, Little Andaman, Diglipur, Mayabunder, and Rangat, based on a uniform selection process to ensure equitable participation.
The Andaman & Nicobar Islands, being home to India’s only active volcano — Barren Island, offer a unique natural laboratory for students to explore geological formations, volcanic activity, and biodiversity firsthand. This visit is designed to foster scientific curiosity, environmental awareness, and inquiry-based learning, in line with the vision of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020.
All necessary arrangements for travel, safety, and logistics have been made under the supervision of the State Project Office, Samagra Shiksha, with strict adherence to the safety and administrative guidelines issued by the Administration and CBSE.
Upon completion of the tour, each student will submit an individual experience report based on their learning and observations. The best report will be selected and felicitated at an appropriate forum. Students will also be encouraged to share their experiences in the morning assemblies of their respective schools to inspire and motivate their peers.
Shri Ram Pravesh, State Project Officer, Samagra Shiksha, welcomed the students and escort teachers and briefed them on the significance of the active volcano. Shri. Gyan Sheel Dubey, DDE (HoO/Acad) emphasized that such experiential learning opportunities strengthen students’ scientific outlook, teamwork, and environmental consciousness, contributing to holistic education envisioned under NEP 2020.
This exposure visit marks a significant step toward integrating experiential learning with classroom education, nurturing the next generation of curious, informed, and environmentally responsible citizens of the Islands.
