Unprecedented levels of poaching and habitat destruction is devastating Zambia's rich wildlife heritage. Conservation education for underprivileged children provides a unique and immersive experience at GRI's Wildlife Discovery Centre and Elephant Nursery inspiring greater conservation stewardship.
Categories
Beneficiaries
Situation
Zambia's natural wealth is under constant threat, diminished by the ivory trade and illegal land use. Unaffordable access to National Parks by local communities exacerbates the problem. Investing in community outreach is imperative. The Wildlife Discovery Centre in Lusaka National Park (in proximity to the capital city) exposes school children to wildlife and wild spaces and provides engaging in-situ conservation education to >5,000 children each year - our future environmental advocates.
Solution
Providing free education to underprivileged children engenders a greater understanding and respect for wildlife and biodiversity. Through interactive, educational-led content, students will experience the natural beauty of Lusaka National Park and discover the behaviour of endangered species up close. Conservation education through topics such as climate change and the illegal wildlife trade, will advance environmental values and equip students to advocate for a more sustainable future.
