July 29th, 2015 – Garoua. We planned it for quite a while, but it was finally time. From April 26th to May 2nd, we held our first Children’s Bushcamp in Bénoué National Park in Cameroon. About 240 pupils from 8 primary and secondary schools around Bénoué National Park participated. In 1,5 days, each group learned about their natural environment and its plants and animals.
Teachers of ‘Ecole de Faune’ in Garoua (EFG) taught the pupils about three subjects: botany, herbivores/ carnivores and ecosystem/ habitat. They got assistance from 18 students who study at EFG. For them, it was a nice way to gain practical experience. Each subject was divided in theoretical background, outdoor activities and practical studies. In the evening, we showed a nature documentary. The bush camp was concluded with a game of bingo and the handing out of diplomas.
All teachers and pupils of the visiting schools were enthusiastic about the Bushcamp in general. For many of them, including teachers, it was the first time they visited the National Park and saw giraffes or hippopotami. The teachers even requested more teaching materials, for them to use back at school.
We look back at a successful kick-off of our Children’s Bushcamp. It was a memorable experience, which we hopefully can repeat. Both EFG and Leo Foundation are committed to raise funds.
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