At WESSA we support citizen science initiatives as part of our broader mission to enable environmental stewardship and conservation.
Citizen science, where members of the public participate in scientific research, is a key component of WESSA’s approach to engaging communities in environmental monitoring and action.
However, for citizen science to be an everyday reality, young people require a basic understanding, and our programmes and partnerships facilitate key learnings to enable this.
Science meets nature
As part of the AECI Modderfontein Environmental Education Project, our latest school excursions, delivered through the WESSA Learning About Ecosystems & Forests (LEAF) Programme, offered a memorable learning experience for over 200 learners and teachers from five schools.
Learners from OR Tambo, Fish Eagle Dam, Modderfontein
Iphutheng Primary Students participating in the nature conservation group activity.
The programme focused on nature conservation and biodiversity through a series of engaging and interactive activities:
- A fun team game introduced learners to the concept of collective action for conservation.
- CAPS-aligned lessons followed, exploring topics like conservation, extinction, and endangered species.
- Learners worked in groups to investigate animal life within the reserve, presenting their findings to peers.
- The experience ended with a sensory nature walk, including time at the Fish Eagle Bird Hide for birdwatching and a walk along the river trail.
Left: Bovet Primary student learning about the different spiders of South Africa at the Modderfontein reserve
Right: Ikage Primary Student learning about tree rings
The week was a powerful reminder of the value of place-based education, where science comes to life through nature.
A heartfelt thank you to AECI and the Modderfontein Conservation Society for making these impactful excursions possible!