Over 300 Students Engaged in Atlantic Humpback Dolphin Conservation

Over 300 Students Engaged in Atlantic Humpback Dolphin Conservation

To celebrate International Dolphin Day this year, CCAHD partner, TUBE AWU organised a major educational event at the Manyange Na Elombo Campo Marine National Park in southwestern Cameroon.  Titled “Activité éducative – Journée du Dauphin”, the event brought together over 300 pupils from the park’s two primary schools (l’École publique inclusive de Campo and l’École catholique de Campo) to improve their knowledge about Atlantic humpback dolphins and raise awareness of the importance of marine and coastal conservation.

Central to the interactive and engaging event was a comprehensive educational workshop on the humpback dolphin, focusing on species identification and the key threats to the dolphins’ habitat and survival. A highlight of the day was the introduction of the children’s book, Keita and the Dolphins, developed by CCAHD to enhance environmental education among young people. Through drawing, colouring, and educational games, the children were able to engage with the topic in a fun and memorable way. This approach not only conveyed knowledge but also fostered long-term engagement among the younger generation in protecting local marine wildlife.

The event was a clear collective success, demonstrating strong community and local authority involvement. More than 300 pupils actively participated in the interactive workshop, supported by the full engagement of the two school principals and 15 teachers, ensuring high-quality educational follow-up. Institutional support was further emphasised by the presence of two representatives from the District Inspectorate of Basic Education, highlighting the commitment of local authorities. Thanks to this, teachers are now equipped with both the knowledge and practical tools to embed dolphin conservation into everyday lessons, ensuring lasting awareness and impact well beyond the event.

Building on this success, key commitments were made to ensure the sustainability of the initiative: teachers, parents, and local authorities pledged to actively support future educational activities on the humpback dolphin, recognising the critical role of education in marine conservation.

It was also announced that the aforementioned children’s book and interactive sessions will be extended to other schools within the Marine Park, expanding TUBE AWU’s outreach. This initiative represents a significant strengthening of collaboration between TUBE AWU, local schools, and the District Inspectorate, ensuring ongoing educational support for marine conservation.

The CCAHD and TUBE AWU thank the Georgia Aquarium and the Nuremberg Zoo for supporting the costs of printing the Keita and the Dolphins book in for distribution and use in educational outreach in Cameroon.