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PIDGS

UNFCCC Observer · ECOSOC Consultative Status · UNEP Accredited
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School on biodiversity and conservation

Biodiversity &
Conservation.

Understand the living world. Build the skills to protect it. A participatory learning programme connecting global conservation challenges with action in the Niger Delta and beyond.

Explore the curriculum

9 learning modules   /   Practical conservation   /   Community action

Why this school exists

Protecting nature starts with understanding it.

Biodiversity is the variety of life on Earth, from species and habitats to the ecosystems that sustain us. Across Africa, this natural wealth supports livelihoods, community well-being and a healthy planet.

In biodiversity-rich regions such as the Niger Delta, forests, wetlands, coastal zones and wildlife habitats face growing pressure from deforestation, pollution, unsustainable resource use and climate change.

The School on Biodiversity and Conservation brings education, policy awareness and practical engagement together. It aims to equip participants from different countries with the knowledge, skills and ethical grounding to support conservation in their own communities.

Our objectives

Knowledge that becomes action.

Learning is a starting point. The programme is designed to help participants carry that learning into their homes, communities and conservation work.

Understand biodiversityExplore why biodiversity matters globally and in Africa, and how its loss affects ecosystems and people.

Put conservation into practiceDevelop sustainable habits, advocate for conservation and engage local communities on environmental issues.

Take ownership of environmental stewardshipBuild the confidence and sense of responsibility to become an agent of change.

Strengthen local capacityEquip Niger Delta communities with knowledge and skills to respond to environmental challenges.

Make learning inclusiveEncourage participation across genders through accessible learning and attention to gender-specific roles in conservation.

The curriculum

Nine modules.
A foundation for lasting change.

A participatory and accessible approach, combining discussion, practical engagement and reflection.

MODULE 01

Introduction to biodiversity

Biodiversity and the global environmental challenges shaping its future.

MODULE 02

Biodiversity across regions

Regional challenges, opportunities and conservation success stories.

MODULE 03

Sustainable practices

Integrating conservation into everyday choices and daily life.

MODULE 04

Threats and conservation ethics

Major threats to biodiversity and the responsibility to protect living systems.

MODULE 05

Policies and frameworks

An overview of national and international conservation policies and frameworks.

MODULE 06

Fieldwork and practical learning

Case studies and hands-on activities that connect learning with conservation practice.

MODULE 07

Community engagement and advocacy

Strategies for involving communities and advocating for environmental protection.

MODULE 08

Careers and personal development

Opportunities in conservation and skills for personal and professional growth.

MODULE 09

Reflection and project presentations

Evaluation, shared reflection and presentations that bring participants’ learning together.

Gender and inclusion

Conservation needs everyone.

The programme seeks to encourage participation from women and girls and create an accessible learning environment for all genders.

Participants will explore gender-specific challenges and opportunities in conservation. Female conservation professionals will be invited as mentors and guest speakers, helping learners see new possibilities for their own futures.

Expected outcomes

What learners take into the world.

The school aims to turn awareness into the confidence and capacity to act. These are the outcomes the programme seeks to achieve.

Greater awarenessA deeper understanding of biodiversity conservation, particularly Africa’s context.

Practical skillsStronger abilities in sustainable practices, advocacy and community engagement.

Active participationIndividuals empowered to take part in conservation initiatives.

Stronger communitiesGreater local capacity to address environmental challenges.

New career aspirationsMore interest in biodiversity-related careers, particularly among women and girls.

Beyond the classroom

Growing a culture of stewardship.

Long-term conservation depends on people who can keep the work going. The programme’s sustainability approach brings together local partnerships, facilitator training and shared learning.

Local partnerships

Partnerships with NGOs, government agencies and educational institutions across the Niger Delta states will support the programme over the long term.

A network of educators

Training local facilitators will help communities continue the programme beyond its initial phase and share conservation knowledge across the region.

An annual conference

The project plans an annual Biodiversity in Nigeria conference, bringing participants, researchers, policymakers and other stakeholders together to exchange knowledge and conservation practices.

A living planet.
A shared responsibility.

Protecting biodiversity takes sustainable practices, conservation action and cooperation. Get in touch to learn more about the school or discuss how you can support community-led environmental stewardship.

Enquire about the school