Lalitpur, February 13, 2025 - Nepal has become a global classroom for 13 undergraduate students and three professors from The University of Newcastle, Australia, as they embark on a transformative journey under their course, Wild Nepal. The two-week immersive program is designed to provide firsthand experience in community-managed conservation models, focusing on Nepal’s pioneering efforts through the National Trust for Nature Conservation (NTNC) and its management of the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP).
Picture Source: NTNC
During the first week, the group delved into the heart of conservation practices in Chitwan. They explored Chitwan National Park's management, learning about strategies for preserving biodiversity, mitigating human-wildlife conflict, and engaging local communities in buffer zone conservation. Their fieldwork provided a comprehensive understanding of how national and community efforts converge to sustain one of Nepal's most iconic protected areas.
The second week of the course takes them to the picturesque villages of Ghandruk and Ghodepani in the Annapurna region. Here, the focus shifts to community-led conservation practices under ACAP’s model. The students and professors will engage with local communities to understand how grassroots initiatives, ecotourism, and traditional practices contribute to biodiversity conservation and sustainable livelihoods.
This collaboration not only highlights Nepal’s role as a leader in innovative conservation practices but also strengthens international academic and environmental ties. Programs like Wild Nepal serve as a platform for knowledge exchange, inspiring the next generation of conservationists to embrace sustainability as a way of life.
Stay tuned for more updates on this inspiring journey, only on Ecosphere News.
