For a scientifically conscious and environmentally aware generation: The role of KSSP and Eureka in Kerala

Abstract

In the present world of increasing environmental destruction, scientific awareness about the environment is very important. The capitalist giants in the world have been using science and technology to exploit nature. In such a scenario, it is necessary to develop awareness regarding the use and abuse of science in matters related to environment and other aspects of life. The Kerala Sastra Sahitya Parishad (KSSP) has been working in Kerala since 1962 towards developing scientific thinking among the general public. More than mere popularization of modern science, the democratization of science for a better democracy is the prime objective of KSSP. It is from this vantage point of the social function of science KSSP intervened into other aspects of society. Children’s education is another important area of intervention of KSSP. In order to develop scientific aptitude among children and to change the traditional way of science teaching in educational institutions, KSSP organized programmes to incorporate informal education along with formal education. Its educational programmes encouraged children to observe their environment and study the destruction happening to it. Eureka, a children’s magazine by KSSP, emphasizes science education for primary school children. It also devoted its pages for developing environmental awareness among children. Through Eureka, KSSP has contributed to the development of a scientifically tempered generation that is conscious about and responsible towards sustainable interference into the environment.