Guardians of Gabon - Exploring Life on Land

The primary aim of an AIR is to provide students with an enriched learning experience that goes beyond traditional classroom education. The programme directly relates to real-world challenges, offering students a more comprehensive understanding of the issues. Our program is meticulously crafted to empower students in countless ways. We foster a deep understanding of complex concepts by encouraging critical thinking and cultivating good judgment.

Through active participation in meaningful literacy activities, students are inspired to unleash their creativity and engage with the world around them. Collaboration is at the core of our approach, nurturing teamwork skills to benefit them throughout their lives. Lastly, we instil a powerful sense of service, encouraging students to positively impact their communities. These goals are achieved through a wide range of developmentally appropriate activities that cater to each student's unique needs and growth. 

AIR also presents a valuable chance for TIS to forge deeper connections with our community. We can create a stronger program that genuinely resonates with everyone involved by engaging families, other schools, and individuals from the region.

What are we doing at TIS?

The “Life on Land” initiative is dedicated to exploring and understanding land based ecosystems. Its goal is to protect and manage forests, combat desertification, reverse land degradation, and stop biodiversity loss. We can create a harmonious balance between human activities and the environment by implementing strategic initiatives and adopting responsible policies. 

By bringing this initiative to our students we can learn how to safeguard our natural resources for future generations while preserving the beauty and vitality of our planet.

Our program is designed to address and contribute to the following targets outlined in SDG 15:

• 15.5 Protect Biodiversity and natural habitats

• 15.2 End Deforestation and restore degraded forests

• 15.7 Eliminate poaching and trafficking of protected species

• 15.A. Increase financial resources to conserve and sustainably use ecosystem and biodiversity

• 15.B Finance and Incentivise sustainable forest management

Discover Gabon

Gabon, a small country in West Central Africa, is often described as the last Eden in Africa and on Earth. This treasure trove of natural wonders is home to incredible biodiversity with around 8,000 unique plant species, and lush and diverse forests still blanket 85% of its territory. This majestic forest is also home to the world's largest population of forest elephants and lowland Gorillas. It's like stepping into an enchanting jungle. 

It has a breathtaking coastline where rivers and lagoons seamlessly meet 800 kilometers of unspoiled beaches. These pristine shores are essential nesting grounds for various turtle species, including leatherbacks, green turtles, olive ridleys, and hawksbills. The ocean also serves as a migratory pathway for majestic humpback whales, and watchers may even catch a glimpse of playful dolphins along the coastline, adding an enchanting touch to this extraordinary destination.

In the classroom

Collaborating closely with Mr. Anoro, our students will participate in immersive learning experiences. They will engage in field trips, hands-on projects, and interactive workshops that promote active involvement in conservation initiatives.

Inspired by Mr. Anoro's vision, our students will actively contribute to protecting and restoring land ecosystems. They will explore innovative solutions to address environmental challenges. and develop a profound understanding of the interconnectedness between human activities and the health of the natural world.

This year, we are honoured to welcome Antonio Anoro as our Activist in Residence. Antonio, a passionate conservationist, hails from Spain but has dedicated the majority of his time to making a difference on the West coast of Africa. There, he fearlessly safeguards numerous endangered species from the threats posed by poachers and other human conflicts. Antonio's unwavering commitment to protecting wildlife is truly commendable and serves as an inspiration to others.

His ultimate goal is to find innovative solutions that not only safeguard endangered species but also support the local communities and preserve the rich heritage of tribes and their cultural traditions. By addressing multiple aspects simultaneously, he aims to create a harmonious balance between conservation efforts and socio-economic development.

Antonio's expertise extends beyond a single species of animal. He has experience working with various species found in West Africa, including mandrills, gorillas, pangolins, elephants, crocodiles, hippos, turtles, and panthers. His versatile knowledge allows him to be effective in addressing the specific needs of each unique species.

With Mr. Anoro's guidance, our students will have the unique opportunity to learn from his vast experience in promoting sustainable practices and preserving the natural wonders of Gabon.