EDUCATION
Science Education: As part of our commitment to science, we are determined to make a positive impact in the local communities surrounding Kasanka National Park. To this end, we have raised funds to purchase needed science equipment and textbooks for the local basic schools, Kafinda and Chalilo. We have visited the schools and give presentations on Kinda baboons, our research, and wildlife conservation.
We visit Chalilo village two times per month to give a lesson to the elementary school’s conservation club as well as teaching computer classes. The Kasanka Baboon Girls Science Club also periodically visits the club to give lessons.
Conservation Club: Together with the Headmaster at Kafinda School, Anna created an after-school conservation club that students join voluntarily. The club meets once per week and does a different science activity/experiment. In an effort to keep the club self-sustaining, we use local materials and simple household items to explore science and nature. The science club is also tied in with Chongololo Clubs (conservation clubs made up of students). Chongololo clubs were started and organized by the Wildlife and Environmental Conservation Society of Zambia in the 1970's. One of our Sarah Darlene Hogle Scholarship Graduates, Leah Mwambwa, works closely with our Project Manager Rachel Sassoon to develop new and exciting lessons that they teach each month.
Global learning: In 2011 Kafinda School partnered up with Cosgriff Elementary School in Salt Lake City Utah. Students in grades 1-8 shared pictures, videos and letters and learn about each other's lives and cultures.
Computer Literacy: In Chalilo, Rachel and Leah run a computer class for adults in which we computer skills as basic as turning on a computer to creating spreadsheets and resumes. We attend to each student at his or her individual level.
PUBLIC AWARENESS
We are constantly trying to increase public awareness about the Kinda baboon, wildlife conservation, female empowerment, and science education in Zambia and abroad. This is a growing endeavor.
Our recent publications include:
- A bi-weekly article in the Lusaka Times about Kinda baboons and Anna’s research in Kasanka National Park. Please visit The Lusaka Times and search for Kasanka Baboon Project for updated articles.
- An article in the August 2011 issue of The Low Down magazine. A monthly publication of happenings in Zambia
- An article in the Wildlife and Environmental Conservation Society of Zambia’s magazine “Black Lechwe”, January 2012
Public Talks: We also try to extend public awareness through scientific talks and school visits. Recently, Anna Weyher spoke to the Wildlife and Environmental Conservation Society of Zambia about her recent and future research in Kafue National Park and Kasanka National Park. Anna has also given presentations to the Alton, Illinois chapter of the P.E.O, and an invited talk at Yale University.