Last month, Koru Camp was delighted to welcome a group of students from Southern Cross Schools in Hoedspruit alongside their student exchange counterparts hailing all the way from Martin Pollich Gymnasium in Germany. The idea behind this trans-continental exchange is to broaden cultural perspectives whilst creating opportunities to study biodiversity in two completely different regions: the Kruger to Canyons (K2C) Biosphere region and Germany’s Rhon Biosphere.
Despite their initial differences, both regions have been shaped by historical struggles and now seek to create positive change through conservation and sustainable practices. It is this likeness that inspired the K2C to spearhead such an ambitious and inspirational project more than a decade ago. For this year’s trip, after spending several days studying the natural wonders surrounding the greater Hoedspruit area, the group was invited to Koru Camp – for the first time – to explore the unparalleled wilderness of the Greater Kruger.
Arriving in the middle of an uncharacteristic cold front, the students remained full of enthusiasm as they headed out on their very first game drive, layered up in hats, coats, and fluffy blankets. For the German visitors, every animal was new and exciting and our passionate guide, Joel, enthralled them with stories and interesting facts about the Bushveld. Over two days, Joel delighted both our South African and European guests with sightings of thirsty elephants and even a fantastic, close-up encounter with a pride of lions. In between drives, host Vusi from K2C led deep discussions on the challenges of rhino poaching and light-hearted games and songs to bond the group.
As their time at Koru Camp came to an end, the students took home memories that would last a lifetime and, for some, a newfound passion for environmental stewardship. In a world where borders can seem insurmountable, this exchange has proven that when we unite for a common cause, transformation is within reach. It has been an absolute pleasure to host Southern Cross Schools and Martin Pollich Gymnasium at our camp, helping to shape young minds and foster a shared commitment to biodiversity conservation that transcends continents.
Are you interested in hosting an educational camp at Koru Camp? We would live to talk! Email our CEO Corné Havenga at corne@korucamp.org.
