As a final year student pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Wildlife Management and Tourism Studies at the University of Namibia (UNAM), Katima Mulilo Campus, Daniel Munyanya had the privilege of meeting and studying alongside Nina Holmlund, a 36-year-old exchange student from Finland. This article aims to highlight the enriching experience they shared and to acknowledge the incredible contributions of their lecturer, Dr. Ezekiel Fabiano, in the module Ecological Methods in Wildlife Studies.
“Nina’s presence not only enhanced our learning environment but also exemplified the value of cross-cultural academic exchanges,” says Daniel.
An Enriching Exchange Programme
Nina Holmlund joined Katima Mulilo Campus for six months through the UNAM student exchange programme, bringing a fresh perspective and invaluable enthusiasm to class. Her presence was a breath of fresh air, characterized by her dedication and passion for conservation, particularly her love for insects like beetles and spiders. Nina’s passion was contagious, and her willingness to share her knowledge and assist her peers was remarkable.
She consistently encouraged her peers to strive for academic excellence and was always willing to lend a helping hand, ensuring that everyone was on the same page. Nina quickly became a cherished member of our cohort, her kindness and approachability making her a friend to all. Her proactive approach in class discussions and practical sessions was inspiring, and her contributions significantly enhanced our collective learning experience. Nina’s ability to seamlessly integrate into our community and her enthusiasm for our local environment were truly commendable.
Collaborative Learning in Ecological Methods
Nina and Daniel attended the Ecological Methods in Wildlife Studies module together, led by their esteemed lecturer, Dr. Ezekiel Fabiano. The module involved engaging in practical activities such as Point-Centered Quadrats, Bird Surveying, Pitfall Trapping, and Vegetation Assessments. These practicals provided them with hands-on experience essential for our future careers in wildlife management and conservation.
Nina’s active participation and collaborative spirit made these practicals more enjoyable and informative for everyone. Her keen observational skills and meticulous approach to data collection and analysis were impressive. Nina was always eager to share her insights and learn from others, fostering a collaborative and supportive learning environment. Her willingness to assist fellow students ensured that everybody progressed together, with enhanced understanding and appreciation of ecological methods.
Perspectives from classmates
Nina’s impact was not limited to her academic contributions; she also left a lasting impression on her classmates. Hiria Joseph, one of her classmates, fondly remembers Nina as a dedicated and helpful individual. She further elaborated, “Nina acclimated to the hot environment with remarkable ease and always found ways to be comfortable. Her presence taught me a lot about associating with people from different backgrounds. She was always ready to assist and share her knowledge, making our learning experience richer and more inclusive.”
Nina’s ability to adapt to the challenging climate and her commitment to her studies were exemplary. She demonstrated resilience and a positive attitude, which inspired many students to push through their own challenges. Nina’s presence in class was a testament to the power of diversity and the importance of embracing different perspectives in education.
Nina’s Journey and Impressions
Nina’s fascination with African wildlife began at a young age and was further fuelled by her visits to Kenya, Tanzania, Zimbabwe, and Botswana. However, it was Namibia that left a lasting impression on her. Her experiences at UNAM, particularly in the Zambezi region, deepened her love for the country and its diverse nature.
During her stay, Nina faced some challenges, including issues with class attendance and excursion organization. Despite these hurdles, she appreciated the opportunity to learn about African nature and engage with passionate individuals who shared her interests. Nina’s reflections highlight the importance of resilience and adaptability in cross-cultural academic exchanges. Her words capture her journey eloquently:
“Ever since I saw the Lion King when I was 5 years old, I have been fascinated by African animals. I fell even more in love with the diverse nature of Africa during my visits to Kenya, Tanzania, Zimbabwe, and Botswana. But Namibia changed my life. After my first visit in 2020, the beautiful landscapes and breath-taking nature finally pushed me in the right direction – to become a biologist and specialize in ecology to be close to nature.”
Nina’s narrative underscores her deep connection with African wildlife and her unwavering commitment to conservation. Her story is a powerful reminder of the transformative potential of international exchange programmes and the profound impact they can have on personal and professional growth.
Acknowledging Dr. Ezekiel Fabiano
This enriching experience would not have been possible without the guidance and expertise of Dr. Ezekiel Fabiano, lecturer for Ecological Methods in Wildlife Studies. Dr. Fabiano’s dedication to teaching and his support throughout the module played a crucial role in shaping the understanding and appreciation of ecological methods. His expertise and passion for wildlife management have been instrumental in this academic journey.
Dr. Fabiano’s ability to convey complex concepts in an accessible manner and his commitment to student success have been invaluable. His encouragement and mentorship have inspired us to pursue our academic and professional goals with confidence. We are deeply grateful for his contributions to our education and for the positive impact he has had on our learning experience.
In Conclusion
Nina Holmlund’s time at UNAM exemplifies the profound impact of international exchange programmes on both students and the host community. Her contributions, enthusiasm, and the friendships she forged have left an indelible mark on all involved. As this academic journey continues, the students will remain grateful for the opportunity to learn from and with individuals like Nina, and for the unwavering support of educators like Dr. Ezekiel Fabiano.
This experience not only enriched academic pursuits but also fostered a deeper understanding of cross-cultural collaboration and the universal love for wildlife conservation. Says Daniel: We look forward to welcoming more exchange students in the future and continuing to build a vibrant and inclusive academic community at UNAM.”
Original Story by: Daniel Munyanya. Daniel is a final-year student, Bachelor of Science in Wildlife Management and Tourism Studies, University of Namibia, Katima Mulilo Campus.
