Mole National Park, in partnership with iValley Ghana and the Savannah Regional Directorate of the Ghana Education Service, organised an impactful quiz competition for high school students, focusing on conservation awareness.

The event, named "What do you know?" and themed "Conservation for a Better Future," aimed at emphasising the significance of safeguarding forests and wildlife, ultimately contributing to a more sustainable global environment.

Amid mounting excitement, the competition itself took centre stage, featuring three spirited schools: Saint Anne's Girls Senior High School (SAGISS), Damongo Senior High School (DASS), and Ndewura Jakpa Secondary Technical School (Ndesco).

These institutions showcased not only their intellectual prowess but also their unwavering dedication to conservation.

Amid a growing sense of anticipation, the spotlight shifted to the heart of the competition, featuring three enthusiastic schools: Saint Anne's Girls Senior High School (SAGISS), Damongo Senior High School (DASS), and Ndewura Jakpa Secondary Technical School (Ndesco).

These institutions not only showcased their intellectual acumen but also their steadfast commitment to conservation.

After three rounds of fierce competition and mental agility, Ndesco earned a well-deserved third place with 70 points, while SAGISS secured second with 75 points.

However, the ultimate triumph belonged to DASS, which emerged as the victor of the High School Quiz competition with 78 points. Their hard-fought win echoed their strong dedication to environmental awareness and preservation.

This event was made possible through the support of the office of Damongo Constituency MP, Samuel Abu Jinapor, underscoring a unified commitment to conservation from various quarters.

Beyond being a mere competition, this event symbolized a beacon of hope for a greener future, fueled by the power of education. The organizers anticipate that this initiative will ignite an enduring passion for conserving our invaluable natural resources, both now and in the years to come.

In his welcoming speech, Mr. Bona Kyiire, the Deputy Park Manager of Mole National Park, underscored the importance of conservation, particularly in safeguarding endangered species like the majestic elephants present in the park.

His words emphasised the urgent need for collective efforts in maintaining the delicate balance of the ecosystem.

Mr. Mahama Abdulai, the Human Resources Manager at the West Gonja Municipal Assembly, spoke on behalf of the guest of honour, Musah Karim Kusubari, the MCE for West Gonja Municipal.

He commended the joint endeavours of Mole National Park and its associates in organizing this exceptional occasion.

Mr Abdulai highlighted the vital function of such initiatives in cultivating the minds of young individuals, educating them about the importance of safeguarding wildlife, and fostering a deep appreciation for our priceless forest areas.

“Habitat destruction, fragmentation, and modification caused by human-led activities (i.e., industrial and residential development, logging, crop farming, livestock grazing, mining, road and dam building, and pesticide use) have taken an extreme toll on threatened and endangered wildlife populations at an alarming rate,” Mr. Abdulai said.

He mentioned that the quiz would play a role in educating the public and generating backing for the preservation of our natural surroundings to uphold the health of our ecosystem.

He anticipates that the quiz will significantly contribute to reviving the dwindling practice of conserving ecosystems and using natural resources wisely.

“I wish and pray that we can all work together to make this an annual event that can be replicated for the Junior High Schools in the Municipality and even the Savanna Region as a whole.”

The Mole National Park management has initiated various endeavours to raise awareness among young people and student groups about environmental conservation.

This includes establishing 15 wildlife clubs in primary schools located in communities surrounding the park. Additionally, the park's community unit has effectively facilitated visits for over 1,000 students from different schools, offering them a direct experience of nature.

Mr. Ali Mahama, the Park Manager, stated that it is only natural to extend their support for organizing this inaugural quiz event.

He expressed the hope that the success of this program could lead to its establishment as an annual event, encompassing primary schools within the Municipality and secondary schools across the Region.

During the occasion, Mr. Mahama acknowledged the valuable partnership, cooperation, and trust vested in the park. He emphasized their commitment to ensuring that they leave future generations and their communities with more abundant and valuable forest and wildlife resources than they inherited.