Guwahati: With a view to generating awareness amongst the students the need to promote Rhino conservation in Assam, Aaranyak a research conservation-oriented organisation, and supported by UK based David Shepherd Wildlife Foundation (DSWF) organised a campaign ‘Rhino Goes to School’ (RGTS) that witnessed the participation of more than 1000 students.

Assam is famous one one-horned Rhino. “We feel that there is a necessity to apprise our young minds of the resources that Assam has in its kitty. Assam is not only famous tea but is also famous one-horned Rhino. Our young minds need to know this and so we organised this campaign today,” said the volunteers of Aaranyak.

Apparently the organisers used audio-visual interactive storytelling techniques to teach the children about the characteristics, food habits, suitable habitats, and ecosystem of Rhinos among others.

The event was held at Soraibahi High School where 560 students attended. Educative presentations about rhinos, open quiz, and discussions were held on the day. Aaranyak official, Arif Hussain coordinated the event. Paguram Pegu, Headmaster of the School, Babuli Hazarika, ex-honorary wildlife warden, Khirud Saikia, member of Aaranyak and teaching staff of the school were present during the event.

On May 9, 350 students participated in the third RGTS programme which was held at Kolongpur High School, Gohpur.

ccording to Aaranyak, the overwhelming participation of students in the conservation held in May, implied involvement and enthusiasm of the future generation for the conservation of the one-horned Indian rhinoceros.

Conservation experts at Aaranyak believed that the student participation indicates that the public, especially the youth, can play a key role in wildlife conservation efforts.