SAMOA LAUNCHES INNOVATIVE ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION MODULES FOR YOUTH
CEO of MESC Aeau Chris Hazelman with Trevor Matheson launch the Guardians Environmental Educational Model, during the National Environment Week opening (Photo: Lars Gustaf Bell/ Eyespy Radio Samoa)
Samoa is taking a bold step forward in environmental education with the launch of the Guardians Environmental Education Modules manual, officially endorsed by the Chief Executive Officer of the Ministry of Education Sports and Culture, Aeau Chris Hazelman. This momentous occasion occurred during Samoa's Environment Week, hosted by the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment, signifying a significant leap toward nurturing environmental literacy among the nation's youth.
The Guardians Environmental Education Modules manual is not your ordinary educational resource. It is the result of a collaborative effort between the Ministry of Education and its partners, aimed at going beyond data gathering and report writing. The primary goal is to provide an interactive platform for children to learn and enhance their environmental awareness, making a lasting impact on Samoa's ecological future.
These modules play a pivotal role in Samoa's commitment to the United Nations Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development and the Samoa Ocean Strategy. They serve as a crucial foundation for future generations, ensuring that environmental stewardship becomes an integral part of their education.
One of the significant achievements of this launch is the inclusion of the Guardians environmental educational modules in the official government school curriculum. Year 7 students across Samoa will now benefit from this enriching educational experience, setting the stage for a more informed and environmentally conscious generation.
Leausalilo Leilani Duffy-Iosefa, the director of Conservation International, expressed her gratitude for the Ministry of Education's endorsement. This initiative was years in the making and involved collaboration with various government agencies, non-governmental organisations, and civil societies. Duffy-Iosefa stressed that this milestone paves the way for igniting the younger generation's passion for ocean science and traditional voyaging, marking the beginning of an educational journey that not only benefits the youth but also the oceans.
To celebrate Samoa's Environment Week, the Guardians campaign is set to run in Apia, involving seven primary schools. These schools will participate in five modules: Trash Star, Coral Champion, Wise Fisher, Samoan Voyager, and Tree Guardian, providing students with diverse opportunities to engage with and learn about environmental conservation.
The Guardians Environmental Education program is a partnership between Conservation International and the Government of Samoa, with the active involvement of various agencies, non-governmental organisations, and civil societies. Mentors, educators, and volunteers from the Ministry of Education Sports and Culture, the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment, the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries, and the Samoa Voyaging Society will guide the program, ensuring its success.
Support for the Guardians program comes from the New Zealand Government Manaaki Programme and the Waitt Foundation, highlighting the significance of international collaboration in achieving sustainability goals.
Samoa's commitment to environmental education and conservation is setting a remarkable example, emphasising the importance of nurturing future generations' connection with their natural surroundings. With the launch of the Guardians Environmental Education Modules manual, Samoa is taking a significant step towards a greener, more sustainable future.
