We are very happy to welcome Zimbabwe to the Universe Awareness network. Last week, UNAWE Zimbabwe launched its first event at Charles Wraith Primary School in Shirugwi Zimbabwe. With 361 learners at 16 teachers in attendance, their first event was a big success.
When the team arrived at the school with the educational material, the children became very excited and curious. The yellow inflated ball from Universe in a Box had also caused a stir in the town when it was being inflated and attracted a lot of questions about astronomy.
The events began with a brief introduction to astronomy. This was followed by a talk meant to not only teach astronomy but also inspire the children to aim for extreme possibilities, to embrace new experiences and to have a vision for a future as active global citizens.
The activities covered material on facts about the Earth, time zones, gravitational force and day and night, as well as lunar day, lunar landscape, moon storytelling and revolution of the moon. According to the organisers, the children were excited and thoroughly enjoyed themselves doing the various interactive experiments.
Although this was the first event, UNAWE Zimbabwe feels that they have already set off the light bulb in the minds of the kids. The National Coordinator said: “When all the children had dispersed one young child returned and asked us if there has ever been a Zimbabwean who went to the space - we replied: No, but perhaps he could start.”
UNAWE Zimbabwe is coordinated by Nyarai Mulambo of Sky Watch Zimbabwe. If you live in Zimbabwe and want to get involved with the UNAWE project, you can find Nyarai’s contact details here.
Created with flickr slideshow.
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