South Sudan Plans to Teach Wildlife Conservation in Schools

(Juba) – The Ministry of Wildlife Conservation and Tourism in South Sudan has announced plans to work with the Ministry of General Education to introduce wildlife conservation into the national school curriculum. The goal is to teach children, from nursery to primary school levels, the importance of protecting the country’s natural environment.

Colonel Charles Loku, Director of Media and Spokesperson for the Wildlife Ministry, said the idea is to start environmental education early so that children grow up understanding the value of wildlife. “The future of our wildlife lies with the children,” he said. “We are engaging the Ministry of Education on how to introduce wildlife education into nursery and primary schools so that children grow up understanding that this is a vital national resource that must be protected.”

South Sudan is home to rich biodiversity, including elephants, giraffes, antelopes, and some of the largest animal migrations in Africa. However, poaching, deforestation, and conflict have put increasing pressure on these species and their habitats. The government hopes that education can play a key role in changing attitudes and promoting long-term conservation efforts.

No specific timeline was provided for the rollout. If approved, South Sudan would join a growing list of African countries integrating environmental education into schools as a way to build a future generation that values and protects nature.

The Ministry of Wildlife Conservation and Tourism is also working with partners to improve awareness campaigns, train rangers, and support local communities living near protected areas.