GREENING THE NATIONAL CURRICULUM

Inspiring the next generation of environmental leaders has always been at the heart of our mission. Today’s learners will be critical to our country’s development over the next decade. They’ll be making personal, business and political decisions which could halt the tide of environmental degradation that is stripping Malawi of its economic, social and ecological potential, threatening both natural resources and human development.

With the generous support of Born Free Foundation and Nyika Vwaza Trust, we’ve collaborated with the Ministry of Education to develop a sourcebook for Wildlife and Environmental Education – working with the Ministry’s Directorate of Quality Assurance Services and the Malawi Institute of Education.

This resource will equip the next generation with the tools to become champions for the environment. Adapted from our environmental education modules, the sourcebook will empower learners with vital knowledge on wildlife conservation and welfare, wildlife crime, biodiversity, forest management, and more.

We’re excited to roll out this material nationwide, deepening environmental knowledge and stewardship.

“The sourcebook will not only benefit the learners in terms of the environment but it will also enhance their ability to think and solve ethical dilemmas associated with wildlife and environmental conservation,” said Secretary for Education Dr. Mangani Katundu at the launch of the sourcebook at Lilongwe Wildlife Centre. “We are going to incorporate the sourcebook in primary schools so that pupils should gain more knowledge about wildlife and environmental conservation.”

“Schools play a critical role in the provision of knowledge, skills, values, and attitudes which are crucial for enabling Malawians to preserve wildlife and the environment,” writes Dr. Katundu in the sourcebook’s foreword. “School children are probably the most effective change agents. Any intervention coming through schools usually has a long-lasting impact on their day-to-day life. They can also influence their peers and parents to change their behaviour in line with the acquired skills and values.”

This sourcebook is a significant asset in fostering the environmental stewardship needed to protect Malawi’s rich natural heritage for generations to come.

Thank you to all partners who contributed to this resource – in addition to those mentioned above, we worked with the Department of National Parks and Wildlife, the Department of Forestry, the Environmental Affairs Department, and the Wildlife and Environmental Society of Malawi.