On the 13th of November 2023, a total of 53 Geography students from 9A and 10A set out on an enriching educational field trip to the Belait district. The focal point of their adventure was the Forest Biodiversity Awareness Program, skillfully presented by the Tropical Biodiversity Centre (TBC).
The journey from school to the site was brief but scenic, taking exactly one hour. Upon arrival, an insightful talk was given on 'Forest and Biodiversity,' expertly delivered by a TBC representative. The students delved into Brunei Darussalam's expansive forest biodiversity through engaging presentations, interactive sessions, and enlightening videos. The importance of forests in environmental stability and various socio-economic benefits took centre stage in their newfound knowledge. Our students were then able to see a showcase of intriguing floral and faunal specimens in TBC's exhibition hall.
Following this, a 30-minute forest walk along the bamboo trail, nestled behind the TBC building, allowed students to immerse themselves in the ambience of a real forest. The Bamboo Trail not only offered a glimpse into the forest life but also unveiled some of the country's fascinating and unique plant life. The trail seamlessly connected to the Forestry Ex-Situ Collection Area, where distinctive plants from the forests are cultivated for conservation purposes.
The day's activities concluded with a lively round of Kahoot!, reflective moments, and vibrant discussions where students shared their newfound knowledge and experiences from the visit. Group photos were taken as a token of appreciation, immortalising the shared memories of teachers, students, and TBC staff.
The hope is that this field trip, coupled with the firsthand experience of TBC's professionals, will serve as a catalyst for students to bridge theory with real-world applications, contributing significantly to their holistic learning and development. St. Georgians express their gratitude to the Tropical Biodiversity Centre for hosting this invaluable educational journey. Here's to inspiring minds and cultivating a passion for Geography!