Students from Amani Environmental Club at Mbaikini Primary School, teachers and staff participated in an amazing field trip to the Karura Forest and International School of Kenya (ISK). At Karura Forest, the students learned about the forest, the importance of biodiversity, conservation, and how young people can contribute through small everyday actions. They were impressed to learn that Karura Forest was the second largest forest in Nairobi after the Nairobi National Park.
A nature walk exposed them to exotic and indigenous trees. Students clearly saw how indigenous forests support thriving ecosystems with insects, birds, animals, and different plant species. Many students had “aha moments” as they observed the tall trees forming canopies while seeing wild animals, caves, scenic river, and a waterfall. They also enjoyed using binoculars to observe birds and antelopes. Teacher Evans shared, “I am a nature lover and this is truly what makes me happy and relaxed, just seeing the green plants around.” Many participants expressed a desire to return and spend more time exploring the nature trails.
The students also visited ISK, where they interacted with a student-led club called Plastiki Rafiki about waste management and different types of plastics. They learned about different types of plastics and saw how they are sorted, shredded, melted and molded to create new products using, machines designed for specific functions. Some students even made animal-themed key chains with help from a technician and were amazed to learn that upcycled plastic can be used to produce items such as chairs, ornaments, warning signs, and other useful products. Brian said, “This has been a very educational day for me, and I am now ready to be an eco-champion by recycling waste and teaching others about environmental conservation.” Yvonne, a student said, I am grateful for the opportunity and am excited to share what I learned about recycling. Mutinda commented, “I learned how trees are important in storing carbon.”
The trip was educational, insightful and enjoyable for students, teachers, and mentors. It helped students connect what they have been learning in class with real-life experiences. For many of them, it was also their first-time visiting Nairobi, and they were excited to see the expressway, airplanes, tall buildings, factories and other features of the city along the way. Field Trips are a powerful way to expand students’ horizons while creating new pathways.
