The centre
Our core project is an Environmental Education Centre on NamibRand
Nature Reserve, where participants are engaged
in hands-on, outdoor learning in a desert
environment. By using an innovative design, alternative technology (ex.
solar cookers, bucket showers) and living techniques, the Centre is
both a model and experience in sustainable living.
Have a look at the
map to see where the centre is situated or have a closer look
at our facilities.
The Centre was built in 2003 by Andreas Keding (construction manager),
a small team of assistants and three groups of Raleigh International
volunteers. At that time funds were extremely limited and the Centre
was built using recycled materials donated by various individuals and
our neighbour, Wolwedans Lodge. Almost everything was done by hand as
there were limited power tools available. The original Centre consisted
of 6 accommodation units with shower and toilet facilities and the main
building (classroom and kitchen). In the meantime we have added two a
smaller double accommodation houses for staff and teachers.
Unfortunately on
16 June 2006, the main building of the Centre burned down
due to unknown reasons. With the support and generosity of
many, we rebuilt the main building in record
time.
Programme
We offer a variety of programmes that teach about sustainable living,
biodiversity and the balance between humans and the environment in the
magical setting of the Namib Desert. The programmes are tailored to
specific age and interest groups (foreign groups also welcome).
All of the programmes are based on the Namibian school curriculum to
provide an outdoor, hands-on, experiential learning experience.
Programmes are 4 days in length (arrive Monday/ depart Friday) however
NaDEET can accommodate different days and shorter length programmes.
The programmes are as follows:
Grades 3-4:
“Growing up in a Community”
Grades 5-7:
“Building Bridges to Responsible Citizenship”
Grades 8-10:
“Addressing Problems, Living up to Challenges”
Grades 11-12:
“Leaders of Today”
Environmental clubs:
“Clubs taking Action”
Educator groups:
“Incorporating EE”
Each programme includes a full day’s worth of activities. See
“
Activities” for more details. (Sample
Programme)
For school/ youth/ environmental club
groups: The Centre can accommodate groups of up to 40
individuals. We however encourage a group size of 25-30 individuals to
maximise the environmental learning opportunities of each participant.
Two to three adults should accompany the learners and actively
participate in the programme.
For educator groups: The
Centre can accommodate groups of up to 20 educators.