Going Geographical

Ecoserv is critically aware of the importance of Geography being taught in South African schools – which is why it helped sponsor a recent NAPTOSA Geography Association conference at Umgeni Valley

It was no less a personage than Albert Einstein who is rumoured to have said: “As a young man, my fondest dream was to become a geographer. However…I thought deeply about the matter and concluded that it was far too difficult a subject. With some reluctance, I then returned to physics as a substitute.”

Either way, on a more serious note, there is no denying the vital importance of Geography as a subject, notably when it comes to educating the minds of tomorrow. Which is why Ecoserv was pleased to sponsor logistics for the recent NAPTOSA Geography Association conference held at Umgeni Valley in KZN.

Besides attracting a broad range of educators – include several out-of-town delegates who would have been unable to attend without Ecoserv's financial assistance – the conference provided an outstanding opportunity for participants to network with their peers.

What's more, several ideas on positively approaching the teaching of Geography in the classroom were shared, according to Ruth Clements, NAPTOSA Geography committee member, with participants benefiting greatly from the interaction and the sharing of diverse perspectives and experiences.

The conference also served to galvanise educators and inspired delegates to constantly aim for excellence in teaching – while reminding them just how imperative both Geography and environmental education is for the future of South Africa as a whole.

Meanwhile, Carl van der Merwe, chairperson of the committee, highlighted the organisation's mission statement, namely the promotion of Geography education in the South African classroom. His address provided a valuable opportunity to reflect on the importance of focusing on Geography from Foundation Phase in order to channel more learners at Further Education and Training (FET) phase.

The keynote address by Professor Mike Watkeys (UKZN Geology department) drew links between Geology and Anthropology, and as always, was fascinating and entertaining.

The conference also undertook an urban study of Howick which took the form of a walking tour of both the SAMCOL informal settlement and the Howick CBD. Delegates completed a transect and an index of decay, and some outstanding ideas were exchanged and discussed regarding the primary research and field work component of the Geography curriculum.

Lunch took the form of a braai overlooking the Umgeni Valley , which provided a much-welcome time to connect with other educators in an informal setting. The day ended with a game drive around the spectacular Umgeni Valley reserve, which was a relaxing and enjoyable way to end a highly productive day.

Upcoming workshops include a visit to the UKZN Geology Museum .

Meanwhile, some previous workshops have included the implementation of GIS in the classroom, “unpacking” FET and developing rich research tasks. The organisation has also conducted several excursions and outings.

“Ecoserv regards a solid education and continuous learning as the foundation of our business. Our edge is our and our customers' advantage. The tools and ideas that were shared are fundamental to sound environmental practice and its development. We have a great respect for our educators and it was a pleasure to assist NAPTOSA in this outreach venture”, said Quentin Hurt, MD of Ecoserv.