A journey of growth and environmental stewardship at the Arusha Climate and Environment Research Centre
From 10 to 15 January 2024, the Aga Khan Mzizima Secondary School, Dar es Salaam’s Diploma Programme (DP) 2 class embarked on a remarkable journey to the Aga Khan University’s Arusha Climate and Environmental Centre (AKU-ACER), marking the culmination of their 18-month-long creativity, activity, service (CAS) adventure.
This immersive experience unfolded on AKU-ACER's nearly 4,000-acre, ecologically vital land. A flagship project of the university and supported by the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN), the centre aims to cultivate research opportunities in environmental science, including atmospheric sciences, sustainable agriculture and ecology, environmental chemistry, geosciences, and social sciences.
“As the first high school batch to visit the centre, the students were not mere observers but active contributors to environmental conservation,” said College Guidance Counsellor and CAS Coordinator Nikita D Gidwani. “The students engaged in hands-on agricultural practices, including planting, harvesting and understanding the intricacies of seeds and soil preparation. They bridged the gap between theory and practice, gaining a profound understanding of sustainable agriculture and ecology.”
The AKU-ACER empowered the DP2s to believe that collective changes in lifestyle could be the key to saving our planet. Armed with this newfound knowledge, they embarked on a mission to create study materials for local students, fostering a ripple effect of environmental consciousness.
“The journey went beyond theoretical knowledge, immersing us in hands-on activities, such as farming and planting over 100 seedlings, fostering a profound connection with the environment,” said Linda Lugalla, a DP2 student. “The gracious hospitality and accommodation extended by the remarkable staff at AKU-ACER and the safari team enhanced our overall experience.”
Assistant Professor and Director at AKU-ACER Dr Emmanuel Sulle expressed his delight of hosting the students.
“Hosting the first experiential learning visit by Aga Khan Education Services students from Dar es Salaam has been a real pleasure,” he said. “We believe that immersing young students below the age of 20 in an environmental laboratory is crucial to nurturing the environmental leaders the world truly needs.”
Beyond academia, the trip unfolded as a mosaic of experiences. A spirited football match with the AKU team, invigorating hikes up Tower Hill and Decision Hill, and encounters with the vibrant flora and numerous butterfly species painted vivid memories of Arusha. The students marvelled at the beauty of the place, a testament to the diverse wonders that nature beholds.
“The trip not only enhanced my environmental literacy but also instilled in me a sense of responsibility,” said Avinav Mahapatra, a DP2 student. “It was a concise, yet enriching journey that exposed me to practical, action-oriented activities, fostering a deeper connection to the environment and the role to play in its conservation.
As the Class of 2024 returns to their daily lives, the imprint of the Tanzanian soil will forever remind them of these shared moments, the laughter, care and the collective determination to safeguard the precious planet. The lessons learnt, the connections forged and the commitment to sustainable living will also undoubtedly serve as a guiding light as they venture into a new chapter of their lives.
“I express awe at the personal growth demonstrated by the students, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of all who participated in this extraordinary adventure,” Nikita said.
Photos: Students participating in planting activities, listening to a tour guide and group shots of them enjoying their time in Arusha.
