UNIMAWES inspires young minds in environmental conservation

The University of Malawi Wildlife and Environmental Society (UNIMAWES) visited Bwaila Primary School on 12th February 2025 to inspire young minds about environmental conservation. The visit was led by the patron of UNIMAWES, Mr. Vitumbiko. Chijere Chirwa, who was accompanied by 38 UNIMAWES students.

UNIMAWES was motivated to visit schools as part of its goal to unite environmental clubs within all academic institutions in Zomba District at primary, secondary, and tertiary education levels to amplify youth voices in environmental conservation.

The visit included powerful presentations on the effects of thin plastics and on environmental conservation measures. As part of the initiative, UNIMAWES and the learners collaborated in planting trees, taking a step toward a greener and more sustainable future. Through interactive presentations and engaging discussions, pupils learned about protecting nature, proper waste management, and the role of trees in combating climate change. Over 40 primary school students from Bwaila Primary School planted 100 acacia trees.

The president of UNIMAWES, Mr. Henry Supedi, a Bachelor of Science in Actuarial Science student, stated, “The majority of Malawi’s population consists of children, so this initiative is important because we are inspiring and teaching them the responsibility of participating in environmental conservation. This will help them grow with that mindset and become responsible citizens of Malawi.”

The trees were part of the 800 donated by Dr. Edister Jamu, an Associate Professor of Psychology at UNIMA. The involvement of staff members and students in the tree-planting exercise demonstrates the university’s commitment to protecting the environment and maintaining the beautiful scenery of Zomba City amidst the ongoing deforestation of Zomba Mountain.

So far, the society has planted 500 trees across five primary schools in Zomba and plans to plant the remaining trees at various secondary schools.