By Efio-Ita Nyok
Calabar –The University of Calabar is currently hosting an intensive workshop aimed at introducing the Integrated Management Effectiveness Tool (IMET) and the IUCN Green List in African universities. Organized by BIOPAMA in partnership with international bodies, the event seeks to train local and international coaches, students, and faculty in the use of tools that assess the effectiveness of protected area management.
The five-day event, which began on 16 September at the e-learning Centre of the Department of Modern Languages and Translation Studies, has attracted participation from various African countries, including Ghana, Liberia, and Gambia. The workshop features a combination of theoretical and practical training on conservation and biodiversity protection using the IMET tool.
University of Calabar Excited for Knowledge Exchange
In his welcome address, Acting Vice Chancellor of the University of Calabar, Professor Peter Okafor, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership between BIOPAMA and the university. He emphasized the importance of knowledge acquisition and how such opportunities can propel African universities and nations toward sustainable development.
“We are very excited to be a part of this collaboration. This training offers our staff and students the opportunity to acquire knowledge that will help them in the future,” Professor Okafor stated. He reiterated the university’s commitment to exposing its students and staff to international linkages, collaboration, and knowledge-sharing.
Speaking further, he remarked, “Africans say what you don’t know won’t kill you, but the Holy Scriptures say our people suffer for lack of knowledge. We are suffering because we lack basic information that could help us improve our management and utilization of natural resources.”
Professor Okafor urged participants to fully utilize the opportunity to learn from the international experts and their peers from other African countries.
IMET’s Role in Conservation and Sustainability
The workshop features presentations from key conservation experts, including Nigerian Senior Coach, Mr. Sonigitu Ekpe, who provided insight into the IMET tool and its application in assessing the management effectiveness of protected areas such as national parks, reserves, and conservancies. The IMET tool, developed by the Joint Research Council of the European Union, has been successfully implemented across various African countries to enhance the protection of biodiversity.
“We are here to introduce this tool to the University of Calabar and Cross River State University. Our aim is to train 21 students and staff who will, in turn, use this knowledge to assess and improve the management of protected areas,” Mr. Ekpe explained.
International Collaboration in Conservation
Also in attendance were coaches from other African countries, including Edem Mawu from Ghana and Abednego Gbarway from Liberia, who both highlighted the importance of involving local communities in conservation efforts. According to Mr. Mawu, “Most communities in Africa are located near protected areas and rely on these resources for survival. The IMET tool helps to identify the impact of human activities on these areas and guides policymakers on how to balance conservation with community needs.”
Mr. Gbarway, on his part, lauded the initiative, stating, “This is the first time IMET is being taught in universities. It is a unique opportunity to build the capacity of the next generation of conservationists and environmentalists who will safeguard our biodiversity.”
He further noted the challenges facing African countries in terms of population growth and pressure on natural resources, using Nigeria as an example. “With Nigeria’s large population, the pressure on our resources is immense. Establishing and protecting these areas is key to reducing environmental degradation,” he said.
University of Calabar Committed to Conservation Research
Dr. Blessing A. Ntamu, Head of External Relations at the University of Calabar, emphasized the university’s dedication to achieving the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals, particularly in the areas of biodiversity protection and environmental sustainability. She acknowledged the importance of partnerships in advancing these goals.
“We are committed to training and retraining our students and staff to ensure that they contribute to the protection of our biodiversity. This training aligns with our mission to serve both the academic and broader community,” Dr. Ntamu said.
The workshop is set to conclude on September 20, 2024, and participants are expected to implement the knowledge acquired in their respective institutions and communities, promoting sustainable management of Africa’s protected areas.
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