LUCKNOW: The CSIR-National Botanical Research Institute (CSIR-NBRI), Lucknow, on Wednesday 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 brings together 26 teachers from 21 branches of City Montessori School (CMS),Lucknow, with the objective of providing them practical knowledge and specialised skills that can subsequently be shared with students. The initiative also seeks to strengthen awareness and appreciation of plants, nature and environmental conservation among young learners.
Inaugurating the programme, CSIR-NBRI Director Dr. Zabeer Ahmed said teachers play a crucial role in shaping the attitudes and values of future generations. He said strengthening teachers’ knowledge and practical skills in plants, nature and sustainable practices could create a wider impact on society.
Dr. Ahmed said the training would contribute to developing environmentally conscious citizens while opening avenues for creativity, self-reliance and potential livelihood opportunities. He also highlighted CSIR-NBRI’s efforts to translate scientific knowledge and expertise into practical benefits for society, describing such programmes as an important link between science, society and sustainable development.
The training will feature specialised demonstrations and hands-on sessions on the dehydration and preservation of flowers and plant materials for decorative crafts. Participants will also learn craft-making techniques and understand the scientific and creative processes involved in converting natural materials into value-added products.
A dedicated component of the programme focuses on the art and science of bonsai, covering techniques related to the development, training and maintenance of bonsai plants.
As part of the experiential learning component, participants will visit the Botanic Garden and other specialised facilities of CSIR-NBRI, gaining exposure to the Institute’s plant collections, botanical resources and scientific activities. The visits are intended to deepen their understanding of plant diversity, conservation and the role of botanical research in addressing environmental and societal challenges.
Conceptualised as a Good Citizen Initiative, the programme aims to empower teachers as ambassadors of nature conservation and environmental awareness. By taking their learning back to classrooms, the participating teachers are expected to encourage curiosity, creativity and environmental responsibility among schoolchildren.
The training also highlights the potential of floral crafts, plant-based value addition and bonsai cultivation as avenues for skill-based entrepreneurship and employment, particularly in horticulture, handicrafts and nature-based products.
Through Phase-III of the CSIR Integrated Skill Initiative Programme, CSIR-NBRI is continuing its efforts to extend scientific expertise beyond laboratories and research facilities to benefit society directly. The three-day programme combines scientific knowledge, practical training and experiential learning, with an emphasis on capacity building, environmental education and sustainable livelihood opportunities.
Sharddha Teli, Relationship Manager, CMS Group, expressed gratitude to CSIR-NBRI for organising the programme and providing teachers with the learning opportunity. She appreciated the Institute’s efforts towards capacity building and skill development, saying the knowledge and practical exposure would help teachers inspire students towards creativity, nature conservation and sustainable practices.
Dr. Manish Bhoyar, Dr. K. J. Singh and Dr. Atul Batra, along with other officials and scientists of CSIR-NBRI, were present on the occasion.
