Ashoka Trust for Research in Ecology and the Environment

Apart from developing its own conservation education programme, ATREE also acts as resource to existing, successful partner programs. One such programme is the GoI, Department of Biotechnology's Nature Awareness Club. The objectives of the DBT in imparting conservation and environmental appreciation values run a close parallel to ATREE's own objectives of sensitizing the younger generation to India's rich biodiversity.

DNA Clubs provide hands on learning opportunities, as far as possible, tailored to the school curriculum. Schools are expected to take the programme forward, guided by a Regional Resource Agency (RRA) appointed for that state. ATREE is one such RRA for the state of Karnataka. The RRA's role is to guide, monitor and assist the DNA Clubs; orient and train teachers on field work, so that they, in turn, can guide students' work, organize informative nature trails and plan lab experiments; organize field trips; help set up labs and obtain equipment.

ATREE has identified five rural schools with which it will monitor and guide DNA activities in 2009. Three schools - from Ujire, Ankola and Tirumakudalu Narsipura continue from the previous year, Tumkur and Sringeri will begin DNA activity from December 2009. The schools are required to schedule about 25 programmes a year in the form of lectures, presentations, field visits, lab work, hands-on work and project work. The year's programme ends with a meeting together of all schools for a Biodiversity Festival, for which the children showcase what they have learnt. Last year the Biodiversity Festival was held at Ujire.