Best of Both Worlds: Challenges and Best Practices

Published October 21, 2011

by iris_author

Introduction

The idea of a “best of both worlds” collaborative conference initially arose in Malaysia and South Africa and later received support from the United Kingdom. A common feature shared amongst these countries was their concerns relating to the vulnerability of their rich biodiversity, the historical-cultural links amongst the countries and the rapid changes that are occurring in the biophysical and social contexts in developing countries.

The convening of a FIFTH international Best of Both Worlds Conference is in support of the UN’s Decade of Education for Sustainable Development (UNDESD) initiative. Seven years into the Decade, this conference is as a forum for practitioners, teachers and those involved in education and communications to meet and share experiences in strengthening the framework for sustainable living. We would like to share experiences in networking particularly during this conference and learn about success stories in different workplaces.

Objectives

The primary objective of the Conference is to create an opportunity to share international and local experiences in establishing effective networks in environmental education (EE) and education for sustainabie Development (ESD). In addition, the Conference seeks to:

showcase Decade of Education for Sustainable Development (DESD) initiatives, achievements and challenges
showcase DESD initiatives, progress and challenges
reflect on DESD achievements and challenges to date

Who should attend.

The organisers would like to take this opportunity to extend an invitation to all practitioners of EE and ESD involved in school, tertiary or adult education. The conference seeks to engage educators, researchers, government officials, academicians, tour agents, protected areas and resource managers, decision / policy makers, property developers, NGOs and individuals involved in promoting environmental awareness and communications.

Organised by: The University of South Africa

16-20 April 2012

Venue: ATKV Klein Kariba Resort, Bela-Bela, South Africa

Keynote speakers will be:

Prof Joy Palmer-Cooper

University of Durham in England

Dr Jim Taylor

Wildlife and Environment Society of Southern Africa

Prof Callie Loubser

University of South Africa

Conference Organiser:

Joann Kruger