St Ursula’s Primary School learners participated in an interactive anti-poaching workshop presented by SANParks Honorary Rangers and the Genesis K9 Group on September 3.

Rangers educated the learners on animal well-being and demonstrated how the organisations train working dogs. The session also aimed to raise awareness about animal rights, specifically regarding poaching in some of the country’s most well-known nature reserves.

According to SANParks honorary ranger Sharron Haasbroek, learners collected old towels and donated them to the dog unit fighting poaching in national parks as a way to give back for their hard work.

Volunteering for conservation

Sharron added that the volunteer organisation is open to anyone with a passion for nature and a commitment to supporting South African National Parks.

“We facilitate various activities through which the public can become involved in support of SANParks and enjoy the wonder of our natural heritage.”

Genesis K9 Group volunteer Christine Voorendyk added that contributions manifest in many ways, including fundraising, creating vital public awareness, and supplying manpower and equipment for SANParks conservation, tourism, and environmental education needs.

School principal Ann Owgan remarked that the initiative was educational and expressed happiness regarding the donation of towels for the animals.

The initiative aligns with the school’s ethos, Serviam, which means ‘to serve’.