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Universiti Sains Malaysia Offers A Variety of Free Educational Programs Aimed at Increasing Public Awareness and Understanding of Ecosystems

Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) offers a variety of educational programs aimed at increasing public awareness and understanding of ecosystems, particularly focusing on wild flora and fauna. Through collaborations and on-campus initiatives, USM engages with both local and national communities, providing valuable free educational resources on conservation and sustainability.

EcoHub: USM’s Green Lung

USM has dedicated a natural area known as EcoHub, which serves as the "green lung" of the university. This space is not only a sanctuary for biodiversity, featuring a variety of plant and animal species, but also an educational platform for students, researchers, and the wider community. This area, which serves as a vital ecological sanctuary, is open to both residents and the public free of charge. Visitors can explore the rich biodiversity of the campus through the interactive tree map available at which provides detailed information about the various tree species found within the EcoHub and across the campus. EcoHub offers experiential learning opportunities, where participants can explore wild flora and fauna, engage in hands-on conservation activities, and learn about sustainable management of land for agriculture and tourism. The EcoHub acts as a living laboratory, allowing visitors to gain insights into ecosystem dynamics and the importance of protecting natural habitats.

Mangrove Ecosystem Education Programme

USM collaborates with various partners to provide education on the importance of mangrove ecosystems, which are vital for coastal protection, biodiversity conservation, and carbon sequestration. Held in Kuala Muda, Kedah, the initiative which was funded by Japan Malaysia Association (JMA) through the USM School of Educational Studies (PPIP), also received support from the Regional Centre of Expertise (RCE@USM), Kedah Forest Department, and Kelab Pendidikan dan Kebajikan Puncak. This project involved students and teachers from local schools, who helped plant mangrove saplings along coastal areas which aims to foster greater understanding of the threats facing mangrove ecosystems, such as deforestation and pollution, and promote sustainable management practices to protect these essential habitats. By involving local communities, the program strengthens conservation efforts and encourages active participation in preserving these ecosystems.

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