Students in Southern Haiti in Support of Environmental Protection

On Friday, June 5, Haitian schoolchildren marched seven kilometers from Port-à-Piment to Ecole Saint-Andre in support of the environment. Lining up downtown with signs and banners, the students began the march, pausing at an environmental education exhibit for an opening ceremony that introduced the program and honored environmentally conscious students. After hiking through the river basin between the mountains, the students concluded their walk at Ecole Saint-Andre, where environmental organizations posted informational posters about endangered plants and animals and engaged students with musical and theatrical performances related to the environment. Due to the prevalence of deforestation and growing number of endangered species, environmental NGOS in the area have prioritized environmental education for students as a means of prevention and preservation. Promoting environmentally sustainable habits and values within rising generations will have a direct payoff for the Southern population in which many rely on land cultivation to support their families. 

Andrea Van Grisven, 2015 Summer Intern