45 Preschoolers, Climate Warriors
“I found a baby crab trying to go to his crab family,” a four year old explained as he picked up the small creature and placed it gently among the rocks."
Monday 29 August 2022 | 15:38
From (R) -Five year old Torika Deiloa with Postgraduate Marine science student Savaira Rayawa during the cleanup campaign at USP lower campus beachfront. (L)- Picking up rubbish by USP Educare Centre preschoolers. Photo: Kelera Sovasiga-Tuisawau
The sound of excitement and giggling from 45, four- and five-year-old children echoed in a bure at the University of the South Pacific (USP) Lower Campus grounds on Friday.
With the usual adult supervision, preschoolers of USP Educare Centre were eager to collect rubbish along the lower campus beachfront. The outing was part of the youngsters’ two weeks theme on climate change.
The Centre collaborated with USP’s Pacific Centre for Environment and Sustainable Development (PACE), Pacific Ocean Litter Youth Project (POLYP) and USP Islander Paddling Club.
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The preschoolers were accompanied by four staff, two practical teachers, parents and guardians. USP Educare Centre Head Teacher, Vaciseva Rarako was all smiles as she saw the fascination and excitement among the children picking up rubbish along the beachfront.
“The best thing is the practicality of the children coming out rather than just being theoretical but doing hands on experience and walking the talk is the best thing especially at this age,” Ms Rarako said.
Because when they go into the later stages of their lives, they will realise the importance of environment stewardship. The children also got to explore along the beach where one child shouted, “I found a baby crab trying to go to his crab family.”
The four year old carefully picked up the small organism and placed it gently among the rocks.
“It’s not everyday they get to come out with their classmates as they grasp the real-world knowledge of marine life,” Ms Rarako said.
USP Educare Centre Head Teacher, Vaciseva Rarako receives a bag of rubbish from one of her students.
Professor Holland Applauds Youngsters
Before returning to the Centre, the children ended their trip with lunch and games. USP’s Professor for Ocean and Climate Change and Director for Pacific Centre for Environment and Sustainable Development (PaCESD), Elisabeth Holland applauded the preschoolers for their amazing cooperation and interest in the environment and climate change. “YOU ARE CLIMATE WARRIORS!!” she told the children as they shouted in excitement.
Feedback: kelera.sovasiga@fijisun.com.fj
