IITA Forest Center trains coordinators of its conservation clubs
On 13 March, the IITA Forest Center organized a workshop for coordinators of its newly established School Conservation Clubs (SCCs) at the IITA headquarters. The purpose of the workshop themed “Training the Trainers” was to familiarize the coordinators with the modus operandi of conservation clubs and give insights into innovative ideas that could help the clubs make a meaningful impact.
Anu Akinola from the Nigeria Conservation Foundation, taking a session on Environmental education.
In addition to the 43 already established, 20 new SCCs have been established in primary and secondary schools across Oyo, Osun, and Ekiti states. The aim is to enrich the nature experience in school children and create a harmonious relationship between them and their natural environment. The training workshop, which was anchored by Ademola Ajayi, Forest Center Environmental Education Officer, had an array of seasoned facilitators from chosen fields.
In her welcome address Sylvia Oyinlola, Head Administration of the Western Africa Hub said: “In Nigeria, we have been consuming, it is necessary for us to change the trend and start conserving.” While delivering his presentation on “Biodiversity Conservation” Adewale Awoyemi highlighted the benefits of biodiversity to man, encouraging everyone to ensure their continued existence.
The workshop featured Risk management as related to SCCs, jointly presented by Rasheed Fagbenro and Sylvia Oyinlola; Child protection by Derek Smith, Headteacher of IITA International School; An introduction to Environmental education by Anu Akinola from the Nigeria Conservation Foundation; Gardening and nursery tending operations by Olukunle Olasupo; and Waste to wealth (upcycling) by Jumoke Olowookere, CEO of the African Creative Hub.
A group photograph of coordinators and the trainers.
In his goodwill message, Russell Brooks, Public Affairs Officer of the US Consulate said: “We are all responsible for the Earth.” Brooks also expressed his delight in what the Forest Center has done with funds provided, being one of the donors for the project and supported by the Leventis Foundation.
