By Jones Gadama
The Liwonde Environmental Education Centre has been reopened, offering a vital platform for promoting conservation awareness and environmental education in the region.
African Parks, the organization managing the centre, has expressed excitement about the centre’s potential to inspire a new generation of conservationists and environmental stewards.
The centre, which was reopened in 2024 with upgraded facilities, provides dynamic and interactive learning experiences for students, teachers, and community groups. The centre’s programs include camp sessions, media presentations, and workshops, designed to engage participants and promote a deeper understanding of the importance of conservation.
According to African Parks, the centre has quickly become a focal point for a diverse range of educational activities, attracting visitors from over 600 kilometres away.
The centre’s commitment to ensuring access to environmental education is evident in its sponsorship programs, which have enabled many students to participate in its activities.
Over the past year, 664 visitors have utilized the overnight facilities, with 69 percent receiving sponsorship. Additionally, 4,901 learners have participated in day visits, with 13 percent benefiting from financial support.
The centre’s impact is already being felt, with students and community members expressing gratitude for the knowledge and skills they have gained.
A student from Namandanje Community Day Secondary School said, “The invaluable lessons I have learned at Liwonde Environmental Education Centre have ignited my ambition and given me the tools to achieve my goals.”
The Liwonde Environmental Education Centre is part of a broader educational support network being developed at Liwonde, Majete, and Nkhotakota National Parks.
The network includes scholarships and literacy programs, aimed at promoting environmental education and conservation awareness among local communities.
The reopening of the Liwonde Environmental Education Centre is a significant step towards promoting conservation awareness and environmental education in the region.
With its upgraded facilities and commitment to accessibility, the centre is poised to make a lasting impact on the lives of students, teachers, and community members.
