Master's students specializing in Education for Sustainable Development from AKU's Institute for Educational Development, East Africa (IED, EA) visited the AKU Arusha Climate and Environmental Research Centre (AKU-ACER) for a four-day practicum. This hands-on experience, an integral component of their programmes, aimed at ensuring students acquire, engage, and develop practical skills, knowledge, and competencies in the real world.
The heart of their real-world encounter was AKU-ACER's 'Living Laboratory,' situated in the captivating outdoors beneath the imposing Mount Meru. After a scenic six-kilometre hike to Tower Hill, students gained a panoramic view of Arusha and its surroundings. However, the real value of the living laboratory was found in the invaluable experiences gathered along the way. Students dispelled the myth that certain species are lifeless by exploring the landscape and learning about the complexities of water movement and the diversity of living things, including plants and animals. They also learned about the important function that snakes play in thriving ecosystems.
A pivotal moment was the interaction with the Maasai Elder Mzee Alais Ole Morindat, who shared a story full of traditional wisdom from his childhood. His shins bear permanent scars from the time he was forced to go to school as a child, showcasing the harsh realities of forced schooling life. Mzee Alais shared knowledge that isn't found in textbooks about trees, plants, animals, and sustainable living in delicate and seasonally changing ecosystems.
Mzee Lazaro Ole Mongoi, another Maasai elder and AKU staff member, provided insights into creating low-cost technology solutions for community engagement methods. Lazaro focused on community-based projects and demonstrated how technological improvements might improve people's lives and means of subsistence.
The practicum underscored the importance of appreciating, understanding, and being grateful for our surroundings in the pursuit of sustainable development. By dispelling misconceptions about trees and plants, AKU-ACER's Living Laboratory gave the students a deep connection to the environment. The Maasai Elder's traditional knowledge crossed generations and changed students' perspectives about both themselves and other people.
This unique educational experience, which combines experiential learning, wisdom, and technical competence, is consistent with evidence-based social action. Through the transformative journey, students have gained the skills necessary to take the lead as change agents and have a deep understanding of both the intrinsic value of indigenous knowledge and multi-sectoral sources. These kinds of intensive experiences help AKU-IED realize its mission of helping its students develop graduate-level qualities.
Equipped with a lifetime of experiences, these students are now ready to act as change agents, using their knowledge from many sources to improve the quality of life for all species on the planet. These alumni are well-positioned to face the challenges of the future and preserve our planet for future generations because of their emphasis on indigenous knowledge and dedication to keeping people and the planet at the centre.
