From April 11th to 13th, 2024, the Northern Kenya Conservation Clubs’ (NKCC) held a transformative workshop at the William Holden Foundation Education Center. The event attended by Laikipia Wildlife Forum (LWF), was a significant step towards promoting conservation education among schools in Northern Kenya.
LWF, committed to the protection of natural resources, has been at the forefront in raising awareness through its conservation education program. Collaborating with NKCC, LWF has been conducting Eco-schooling outreaches, working with several schools to foster environmental stewardship. The workshop brought together teachers from 16 schools under NKCC, focusing on training them in climate change, wildlife, and environmental awareness.
The workshop was graced by notable conservationists, including representatives from Borana Conservancy and MpalaLive. The hosts, William Holden Foundation, provided insights into various conservation education interventions. Mr. Ng’ang’a from the foundation highlighted the urgent need to address climate change and global warming at the grassroots level. He emphasized the importance of educating the younger generation to inspire proactive conservation efforts.
Mr. Ngángá of the William Holden Foundation takes participants through a session on climate change
Teachers actively engaged in presentations, sharing their initiatives and noting new strategies for implementation. The NKCC team showcased educational videos on wildlife and provided a comprehensive curriculum handbook. This handbook, detailing environmental day celebrations and relevant topics, aimed to keep teachers well-informed on conservation matters.
A highlight of the workshop was the introduction of interactive conservation games. Brian and James from LWF introduced “Nexus Dicey,” a game addressing environmental conservation through art, highlighting the interconnectedness of various environmental aspects. Mr. Gachagua of Borana Conservancy introduced “The Web of Life,” illustrating how human activities impact environmental conservation. These games captivated the teachers, instilling a deeper sense of environmental stewardship.
The workshop also offered an immersive experience in nature. Teachers enjoyed a game drive, visiting Mt. Kenya Wildlife Conservancy and Animal Orphanage, which underscored the importance of wildlife conservation and sustainable use of natural resources. They explored nature trails, appreciating the beauty of indigenous trees and understanding the need for their preservation. Additionally, the team learned about compost manure preparation and biogas installation, integrating agricultural practices with environmental conservation.
A significant portion of the workshop was dedicated to learning from the William Holden Foundation. Established in 1984 by actress Stefanie Powers in honor of her late husband, William Holden, the foundation has been pivotal in conservation efforts. William Holden, a former professional hunter, turned into a conservationist after realizing the detrimental impact of hunting on wildlife. He established an animal orphanage and dedicated his land to conservation, which now serves as an education center.
The William Holden Foundation has made remarkable contributions, such as reintroducing mountain bongos to Mount Kenya and supporting educational institutions with llamas for study. They also work with schools to build infrastructure, plant trees, and provide scholarships for bright students. The foundation charges a nominal commitment fee for educational visits and camping, making their resources accessible while promoting conservation awareness.
The culmination of the workshop saw the issuance of certificates to participating teachers, symbolizing their commitment to environmental conservation. The event was not only educational but also fostered a sense of community among educators, equipping them with the knowledge and tools to inspire future generations.
The NKCC workshop at the William Holden Foundation was a resounding success, reinforcing the critical role of education in conservation. By empowering teachers, LWF and NKCC are paving the way for a more sustainable future, where the preservation of natural resources is a shared responsibility.
