Environment Conservation education is perhaps the most cost-effective way to promote sustainable use of natural resources in the long term. Environment Conservation education in primary and secondary schools has been approved as a successful approach in environmental conservation, therefore, it should be an essential goal for all stakeholders. Planting trees is the viable solution and ensuring that laws, policies on environment and natural resource management are implemented by the government, civil society organization and the citizens of Uganda.
Most Ugandans look to be ignorant about the National Environment Act, Laws, and Policies. STGF wishes to promote awareness of these laws and policies and making demonstrations and environmental campaigns in Luuka District.
In Luuka district subsistence agriculture (mostly sugarcane growing) is the main source of income for the local population. The rapidly growing population has contributed to deforestation of the original tropical forest vegetation and to a huge decline of native plant species. The agricultural focus of the population leads to the conversion of forest land into agricultural land and the use of mainly adapted plant species. In addition, local farmers use large areas of land for the commercial cultivation of sugarcane. The lack of awareness of the importance of maintaining biodiversity on agricultural land in the region as well as lacking decision-making power of women and the inadequate enforcement of biodiversity laws lead to an intensification of the problem.
This program introduces students to the issues surrounding the environment and involves them in restoration efforts. Our goal is to instill in students the knowledge that they can make a meaningful contribution to the conservation and restoration of the environment.
STGF’s environment conservation education project is all about giving children opportunities to connect with nature and empowering them to act alongside their communities to create greener, cooler places where both people and nature can thrive.
This project will work with students and their communities to increase tree shade cover and native habitat in school grounds and at local communities to reduce urban heat, support native pollinators, and create healthier places for children to learn and explore.
In-Classroom Program
experienced environment conservation educators will visit the classroom for an informal learning and sharing session. Students will learn about the history, function, and culture of the Uganda forests. We will also discuss the dangers of forest and land loss and restoration strategies. This lesson will be combined with plant/afforestation activities where we shall involve the community in the process of planting trees. We will do this effectively by providing our beneficiaries and the community at large with seedlings of trees that benefit the environment and economy like the Candlenut tree which has very many benefits to the environment and the farmers.
Goals
To develop a world population that is aware of, and concerned about, the environment and its associated problems, and which has the knowledge, skills, attitudes, motivations, and commitment to work individually and collectively towards solutions of current problems and restoration.
Objectives
impart knowledge, develop attitude, skills, and a sense of responsibility that enables students to take necessary actions towards preserving nature and all its components.
Outcomes
Improve the environment, create a sense of self awareness in environmental conservation and create economic opportunities for smallholder farmers through creating linkages between them and the market for raw materials produced from afforestation.