Conservation Camp at Mpala

16 Dec 2024-27 Dec 2024
Nairobi, Kenya

About The Programme

Conservation Laboratory at Mpala is an 11-day immersive field-based adventure for high school students that traverses Kenya’s remarkable biodiversity. Participants will stay at the Mpala Research Centre, situated on a 50,000-acre expanse of the Laikipia Plateau, home to a diverse array of wildlife. The centre is celebrated for its rigorous scientific research, particularly in ecology, genomics, and conservation biology, in collaboration with prestigious institutions such as Princeton University and the Smithsonian Institution.

Over nine days, students will participate in masterclasses led by researchers and scientists at Mpala, and work on group projects based on their observations and learnings. The programme concludes with two days of tourism and adventure, with visits to the enchanting Ngare Ndare Forest and the Ol Pejeta Conservancy for a rich and unforgettable experience of Kenya’s natural beauty.

Over nine days, participants will attend a blend of lectures, seminars and field visits where they will learn about various topics, such as the work being done at Mpala and its landscape, human-wildlife interaction, the role of ecotourism in conservation, community engagement, and more.

Participants will form groups under the guidance of their accompanying teachers and pick a topic to research. At the end of the programme, they will submit a research report, after which they will receive their certificates.

The programme ends with two days of immersion in the region’s abundant flora and fauna through day trips to the Ol Pejeta Conservancy and the Ngare Ndare Forest.

Participants leave with rich insights into the efforts to protect wildlife, the role local communities play in conservation, science and technology and its impact on preserving ecosystems, and the need for global outreach and cooperation in ecological preservation.

Tentative dates of visit: 16th December 2024 – 27th December 2024.

Batch Size: 26 Participants

Certification: Upon successful completion of the programme, participants will receive a certificate from SternaXP and the Mpala Research Centre

Costing: INR 2,25,000 (with GST). The cost includes accommodation, meals, transportation, entry costs for scheduled activities, academic costs, guided learning, and certificates. It does not include airfare, visa, or insurance.

Registration: Please get in touch with us via one of the following channels – connect@sternaxp.com or +91 7096069696.

Frequently Asked Questions

Participants will stay at the student accommodation provided by the Mpala Research Centre. These accommodations are located within close proximity to research facilities, dining areas and recreation spaces. The essence of this programme lies roughing it out and respecting the ongoing conservation work at the centre.

Yes, participants will receive a certificate from the Mpala Research Centre and SternaXP upon completion of the programme.

Absolutely! The programme is designed for high school students of all backgrounds and provides foundational knowledge in conservation science and field research techniques.

Field Research: Hands-on learning in wildlife observation, ecological data collection, and scientific methodologies. Masterclasses: Expert-led sessions on conservation and ecology. Adventure & Tourism: Visits to significant sites such as the Ol Pejeta Conservancy, which is home to endangered rhinos.

Yes, the Mpala Research Centre has an onsite clinic staffed by a qualified medical professional to handle any immediate health concerns. For emergencies, AMREF Flying Doctors are on call to provide advanced medical support and the nearest town has hospitals and pharmacies. Mpala has a tie-up with Cottage Hospital in Nanyuki.

Yes, the town of Nanyuki offers access to banks, hospitals, educational institutions, malls, restaurants and supermarkets. This ensures that participants have access to any resources they may require during their stay.

Yes, participants from India must take a Yellow Fever vaccine a minimum of 10 days prior to travel. Please check the rules in your respective countries.

Yes, the programme ensures that participants are supervised throughout their stay. The Mpala staff and SternaXP team work closely to manage logistics, safety, and student engagement.

Mpala Research Centre is situated on a 50,000 acre private conservancy that is home to both animals and humans who coexist peacefully. At the centre, one can find antelope, rabbits, monkeys and a variety of birds. Larger animals do not venture into the centre, but one can see spectacular wildlife on game drives organised by Mpala. Rangers around the campus ensure safety of everyone.

Simple, nutritious meals are provided at Mpala, including packed meals for excursions. Please let us know in advance about any dietary restrictions.
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