“More than just a field trip, this YES Exploration serves as a catalyst for change and is a vital part of CITW’s mission to inspire conservation custodians and informed citizens”, said Agnes Tjirare-Kerii, Wilderness Namibia’s Impact Manager. “It’s about planting the seeds of future leadership — and with the right support, quality education and an enabling environment, young people can grow into confident, capable changemakers for their communities and the conservation of Namibia’s wild places”.
Learners from WJD Cloete Combined School, Michelle McLean Primary School and a number of high schools — including Academia, Concordia, Centaurus, and Westmont — took part in a rich and diverse itinerary designed to expose them to both academic and career pathways, as well as environmental awareness.
In Windhoek, the group engaged in site visits to the Ministry of Mines and Energy, and the National Commission on Research, Science and Technology, where they were introduced to the practical application of science and innovation. A visit to United Nations House offered insight into the Sustainable Development Goals, connecting global challenges like hunger and climate change to CITW’s core focus on environmental and community upliftment.
For many learners, guided tours of The University of Namibia and Namibia University of Science and Technology campuses were a clear highlight — sparking aspirations for higher education by providing an invaluable first-hand experience of university life. Exploring academic departments and gaining insights into entry requirements offered a unique opportunity to bridge the gap between dreams and tangible pathways beyond school.
The group later travelled to Swakopmund and Walvis Bay, where many saw the ocean for the first time. Highlights included observing flamingos at Walvis Bay Lagoon, a behind-the-scenes tour at SeaWorks Fish Processors, a visit to the Snake Park, and a catamaran cruise, where sightings of dolphins, seals, and even a whale provided a magical connection to Namibia’s rich marine ecosystem.
CITW Namibia, founded in 2002 as the environmental education arm of Wilderness Namibia, currently works with 13 partner schools in conservancies such as Marienfluss and Torra, reaching over 400 learners annually through its Eco-Clubs. Since inception, the programme has hosted over 70 annual camps, and awarded more than 40 scholarships and bursaries in 2025 alone, valued at NAD350,000. Infrastructure investments, including libraries, clinics and water projects, further support long-term community upliftment.
NBC Radio provided a platform for learners to share their experiences and aspirations with a national audience. Reflecting on the opportunity during a live interview, participant Prince remarked, “Experiences like these show that the future can be as big and bright as the dreams you dare to chase”.
This YES Exploration is a proud extension of Wilderness’ commitment to conservation through education — creating meaningful, lasting impact by inspiring the leaders of tomorrow.
