Oduva Belaku programme: School kids to learn about lunar cycle with cream biscuits

Bengaluru: The Department of Rural Development and Panchayat Raj (RDPR) has decided to turn learning astronomy for children into a delicious experience under the heading "Phases of the Moon with Cream Biscuits".

RDPR Minister Priyank Kharge on Sunday announced that a month-long programme – Oduva Belaku (Light for Reading) – would be organised across the state to impart lessons on science, patriotism through activity-based initiatives that make learning fun.

Given that the 78th Independence Day is round the corner, the programme, which will be run out of Gram Panchayat Arivu Kendras, will teach children about the Freedom Struggle, besides inspiring them to value the country, and enable them to explore the world armed with knowledge, read the statement released by the RDPR Minister’s office.

RDPR Department has partnered with the Indian Institute of Astrophysics to educate children about many astronomical subjects. Children will be handed cream biscuits and will themselves be asked to make edible models of the waxing and waning of the moon.

“This tactile method of teaching science will help children better grasp astronomical concepts,” said Priyank. Such activities are particularly important to children in the rural areas, who do not have access to science laboratories and other learning aids, said the minister.

As part of its efforts to make learning about the Freedom Struggle a more immersive experience, the department will organise various interactive activities aimed at instilling national pride among the children. Besides learning about the contribution of several freedom fighters, the children will participate in group discussions and even deliver speeches on various subjects. Children will also be asked to make, and wear, badges of the Tricolour for Independence Day, the minister added.

Teachers, along with elders in the community, will hold inter-generational dialogues on ‘Me and My Country’ to make learning a true community-driven experience.