Pathanam, a cloud-based Knowledge Management System joined hands with the Architecture Department of Jadavpur University in a unique venture. Birds are the best architects of the animal kingdom. They remain unsurpassed in their sheer variety of designs in nests, made to suit the specific needs of each type of bird. Sadly due to rapid urbanisation, birds are dwindling from our cityscape. The Jadavpur University – Architecture Department and Pathanam have taken it upon themselves to raise awareness regarding birds and have designed and executed a fun activity with children from various schools not only in Kolkata but the outskirts as well.

In the words of Ms. Anindita C. Ray – Content Head of Pathanam, “We have reached out to 100 Schools in Kolkata for this unique initiative, where children must understand how clever our animal kingdom is and why it is so important to support them.”

A video showing the various birds and their nest making skills followed by a fun online quiz based on birds are the first two activities. Finally a workshop showing how to build nests from everyday materials or how to make bird feeders is what the program is all about. These workshops are being conducted by the students of the Architecture Department in all the various schools. The quiz has been steered by Pathnam and the children have accessed it online. Several prominent schools such as South Point School, Gokhale Memorial Girls’ School, Patha Bhavan,  Jodhpur Park Boys School, Sri Sri Academy, National Gems Higher Secondary School, Sushila Birla Girls School, Sunny Prep. & High School, South City International School, Pramila Memorial Advanced School, Shaw Public School, etc. have participated throughout the month of June, July & August, 2022.

Sharing her experience on this initiative, the Principal of South Point School Mrs. Dalbir Kaur Chadda opined, “A great learning experience for our students to be part of this extremely innovative and creative workshop. An excellent endeavor by Jadavpur University and Pathanam to sensitize and enlighten young minds.”

The entire program culminated on March, 2023 in a function where the best made nests were awarded.