Coffee and Connect - October 2026

In Kenya, children often grow up near abundant wildlife yet have little formal education about animals and their role in ecosystems. This presentation will discuss a study that explored how a training program designed for primary school children influenced their knowledge, attitudes, and behavior toward animals inside and outside their local community. Before the program, many students viewed animals, especially hyenas and snakes, as dangerous or without value. Through engaging lessons, stories about local wildlife and domestic animals, and tree planting activities, the training helped children learn about the ecological and cultural value of animals. The findings show students expressing empathy, interest in conservation, and a willingness to protect animals, compared with peers who did not take part in the program. This shift suggests that culturally relevant education can foster respect for animals and support long term conservation efforts across Africa. Please join us to learn more about this important research from Dr. Brenda Oliwa Okumu, PhD!