Birth of Oasis
In September 2019, amidst the aftermath of Cyclone Fanis devastation in Odisha, a sense of urgency for environmental action took root at the Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER) Berhampur. The tragedy highlighted the pressing need for ecological awareness and conservation, inspiring a group of students, under the guidance of mentors Dr. Bodhisatta Nandy and Dr. Jose Sebastian, to take action. Despite initial skepticism, the shared passion for nature and biodiversity began to evolve into a collective vision. It was during this period of reflection and resolve that the idea for the Eco Club was bornOasis. Established with the aim of promoting environmental stewardship, Oasis brought together students from diverse academic backgrounds to engage in activities like talks, nature walks, bird-watching, and citizen science initiatives, all geared towards fostering a deeper connection with the environment and raising awareness on critical ecological issues. Thus, Oasis was incepted as a platform for ecological action and education at IISER Berhampur.
conducted at IISER Berhampur on 15th of September, 2019
The Vision of Oasis Begins
The Eco club of Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER), Berhampur - Oasis, was founded in September, 2019. Our club mentors, Dr. Bodhisatta Nandy and Dr. Jose Sebastian have always emphasized about conserving biodiversity and nature. It was during those challenging times in Odisha, when the cyclone Fani had caused major destruction, they strived to promote environmental and ecological awareness. Influenced by them, we, the students of IISER Berhampur from diverse academic disciplines, pioneered to establish our very own eco club with the motto of appreciation and conservation of biodiversity and natural resources.
In September 2019, a vision for ecological awareness and environmental stewardship was born at IISER Berhampur. Inspired by the devastation brought by Cyclone Fani, students and faculty felt a profound urgency to take action. Spearheaded by Dr. Bodhisatta Nandy and Dr. Jose Sebastian, who served as guiding mentors, Oasis was formed to unite students from diverse scientific backgrounds in a shared commitment to preserving biodiversity and fostering ecological consciousness.
Establishing a Platform for Awareness
The clubs early days were marked by spirited discussions, where students, senior members, and mentors joined forces to plan impactful activities. These efforts centered on raising awareness of crucial ecological issues, from local biodiversity conservation to broader environmental concerns. With a clear vision and strong support, Oasis quickly became a space where students and faculty could channel their shared passion into meaningful action, creating a ripple effect that reached the broader community.
Diverse Activities: Talks, Walks, and Citizen Science
The founding members of Oasis laid a foundation of diverse and engaging activities to spark curiosity and appreciation for nature. The club introduced regular talks led by scientists, faculty members, and students, covering a variety of ecological topics. Nature walks, bird-watching excursions, and citizen science initiatives soon followed, enabling participants to connect with the environment firsthand. Together, these activities became the cornerstone of Oasis, fostering a vibrant community dedicated to ecological learning and active conservation.
This document was written in November 2024, in the absence of the founding members. Therefore, the description may differ, but the club followed the same path.
Moments -
Visuals from the event
Coordinated by -
Present members were - Simran, prakhar, Pranav , sayantani, oasis
Event Written by - subrat