Vincentians now have opportunity to learn more about birds

A local organiZation has launched a new programme to educate Vincentians about birds in their midst.

The undertaking is being led by Science Initiative for Environmental Conservation and Education (SCIENCE), which was established in 2011 to promote science education, especially among youth.

The National Avian Education Programme (NAEP), supported by the St Vincent and the Grenadines Preservation Fund and Birds Caribbean, was launched at a ceremony, Thursday, June 1, 2017, at the Curator’s House at the Botanical Gardens.

That event is being followed by a two-day workshop that will be held in collaboration with the Ministry of Education, to introduce educators to the BirdSleuth Curriculum, developed by BirdsCaribbean.

The workshop will be facilitated by Dr Lisa Sorenson, professor at the University of Boston, Massachusetts, and executive director of BirdsCaribbean; supported by conservation biologist Lystra Culzac, wildlife expert Glenroy Gaymes and wildlife veterinarian Dr Joanne Justo-Gaymes.

SCIENCE was also set up to cultivate and enhance interest in biodiversity conservation and heritage preservation through exploration, interactive discovery and stimulating learning environments.

Among its objectives are to:

• Expose persons to the beauty, wonder and value of nature

• Encourage outdoor fun, and stimulate interest in science learning

• Support the national schools’ science curriculum

• Create an appreciation of the mechanics in nature and the influence nature has on technology

• Promote participation, teamwork, proactive problem-solving and stewardship in addressing environmental issues

• Promote appreciation for the pure sciences through experiences with nature.

To this end, SCIENCE has established the Heritage Museum and Science Centre at New Montrose.