Lucknow: The CSIR-National Botanical Research Institute (CSIR-NBRI), Lucknow, today commenced a three-day skill development and nature conservation programme on “Dehydration of Flowers for Crafts Making and Bonsai Techniques” under the CSIR Integrated Skill Initiative Programme (Phase-III).
The programme has brought together 26 teachers from 21 branches of City Montessori School (CMS), Lucknow, with the aim of equipping them with practical knowledge and specialised skills that they can subsequently share with their students.
The initiative seeks to promote greater awareness and appreciation of plants, nature and environmental conservation among young learners.
Inaugurating the programme, Dr. Zabeer Ahmed, Director, CSIR-NBRI, said teachers play a vital role in shaping the attitudes and values of future generations.
“By strengthening their knowledge and practical skills related to plants, nature and sustainable practices, we can create a much larger impact on society,” he said, adding that the training was an important step towards developing environmentally conscious citizens while introducing skill-based opportunities that can encourage creativity, self-reliance and future livelihood possibilities.
Dr. Ahmed further emphasised that CSIR-NBRI has consistently worked towards translating scientific knowledge and expertise into practical benefits for society.
He said such programmes reflected the Institute’s commitment to strengthening the connection between science, society and sustainable development.
A spokesperson said the programme was being organised as part of CSIR-NBRI’s continued efforts towards skill development, capacity building and societal outreach.
By empowering teachers with innovative, nature-based learning approaches, the Institute aims to create a multiplier effect, inspiring students to develop a stronger sense of environmental responsibility.
During the training, experts from CSIR-NBRI will provide participants with specialised demonstrations and hands-on exposure to the dehydration and preservation of flowers and plant materials for decorative crafts.
The sessions will also cover craft-making techniques, helping teachers understand the scientific and creative processes involved in converting natural materials into value-added products.
A dedicated component of the programme will focus on the art and science of bonsai, introducing participants to techniques related to the development, training and maintenance of bonsai plants.
The participants will also visit the Botanic Garden and other specialised facilities of CSIR-NBRI, where they will learn about the Institute’s plant collections, botanical resources and scientific activities.
The exposure is expected to deepen their understanding of plant diversity, conservation and the role of botanical research in addressing environmental and societal challenges.
The programme has been conceptualised as a Good Citizen Initiative, with a special focus on empowering teachers to become ambassadors of nature conservation and environmental awareness.
By taking these skills and experiences back to the classroom, the participating teachers can help cultivate curiosity, creativity and a sense of responsibility towards the environment among school-going children.
The training also highlights the potential for skill-based and entrepreneurial opportunities in floral crafts, plant-based value addition and bonsai cultivation. Such knowledge can open avenues for creative enterprises and employment opportunities in horticulture, handicrafts and nature-based products.
Through the CSIR Integrated Skill Initiative Programme (Phase-III), CSIR-NBRI continues to extend its scientific expertise beyond laboratories and research facilities to directly benefit society.
The programme represents another step towards capacity building, skill development, environmental education and the promotion of sustainable livelihood opportunities.
The three-day training will provide participants with a blend of scientific knowledge, practical skills and experiential learning, reinforcing CSIR-NBRI’s vision of leveraging science and innovation for societal development and nurturing a generation that is more closely connected with nature.
SharddhaTeli, Relationship Manager, CMS Group, expressed her gratitude to CSIR-NBRI for organising the programme and providing teachers with a valuable learning opportunity.
She appreciated the Institute’s efforts towards capacity building and skill development, saying that the knowledge and practical exposure gained would help teachers inspire students towards creativity, nature conservation and sustainable practices.
Dr. Manish Bhoyar, Scientist-E, Dr. K. J. Singh, Scientist-E, and Dr. Atul Batra, along with other officials and scientists of CSIR-NBRI, were present on the occasion.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
