Grade 11 Biology excursion: Gobabeb 2018

1 bus, 3 teachers, 4 days, 45 learners and plenty to explore and discover.
This year again, an excursion to Gobabeb, a research and training centre in Namibia's Namib Desert was offered for the biology courses of the grade 11 DIA classes.
Gobabeb is located about 120 km south-east of Walvis Bay and has been an internationally recognised training and research centre since 1962.

At first sight, it does not seem to be the most spectacular place. But the picture is deceptive, since at second glance latest, one recognises the unique location which borders directly on a river, a steppe landscape and the first dunes of the Namib.
For the learners it was the perfect real-life complement to their lessons, since being in the middle of nature, perceiving its diversity, its beauty and at the same time the danger it holds for many living beings, created a clearer awareness of the environment and an admiration.

Immediately after arrival, a tour around the research site was scheduled to provide an insight into the structure and the daily work of the researchers at Gobabeb. Global warming affects not only Antarctica, but also the deserts of the world.
Despite foggy conditions at Namibia's coastline, sometimes several days may pass, before the fog eventually reaches the desert. For many living beings, the absorption of humidity during this time is therefore crucial.
And this is exactly what the excursion was all about: the ecology of big and small desert dwellers.
Through lectures and guided walks, field work and research at Gobabeb's library, the learners got to know the key aspects and compiled them.

But apart from learning, there was also time to relax. After all, it was World Cup time and everyone was anxious for their team to win. Some were luckier than others, but there was a good atmosphere throughout.
On the way back to Windhoek, everyone suddenly realised that this was the last excursion of our school career! For this reason and because we all gained so much in these four days - especially the experience of the fascinating processes of nature - we will always remember this excursion.

Danielle Pade & Lara Fischer, Grade 11, DHPS Windhoek

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