Grants :: Small Grant Facilities :: Building capacity of schoolchildren as a forerunner to sustainable mangrove ecosystem conservation initiatives (Phase 2)
Building capacity for schoolchildren Ph2 , Sri Lanka © Visura Devt Fdn , 2010
This project had three main objectives:
Schoolchildren are said to be the main messengers of information to their household, so this project sought to raise awareness of mangrove conservation and its importance among children in schools. This was achieved at two levels using simple awareness promotion tools. Advanced students carried out research studies on mangrove ecosystems, and an Environmental Conservation Unit was formed to lead students in carrying out the environmental programme during the project period.
Schoolchildren from Mawadala Baminiyanwila Jayanthi School in the RUK area.
After conducting various awareness programmes, and establishing a school environmental management unit, the target schoolchildren are now much more aware of the importance of mangroves.
These included the short duration of the project, and the fact that it coincided with the end-of-year school exams, which drew students’ attention away from project activities. Also, the school selected for the project was in an underdeveloped area and suffered from a high level of student absenteeism.
The project involved all schoolchildren in the target school irrespective of whether they were boys or girls.
It is possible to change schoolchildren’s attitudes through awareness programmes highlighting the importance of protecting their environment. Such programmes can encourage students to take more interest and play a greater role in environmental conservation initiatives. As a result of the project, the target schoolchildren have been able to learn about the value of a healthy natural environment.
Rekawa, Ussangoda and Kalametiya (RUK) area, Sri Lanka
1st Oct 2009 to 30th Nov 2009
US$3,311
Visura Development Foundation
Weeraba Pirivena, Nupe,
Matara, Sri Lanka
Tel: +94 41 2230671