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Student contributes to environmental project in the Philippines

Jaudelle Gold-Detchebs, a University of Kent student from Brixton, London recently returned from a marine conservation project in the Philippines.

As part of a team of 20 British volunteers, Jaudelle, participated in an intensive four-week 'Tropical Ecology and Coastal Resource Course' at the Sogod Bay, Southern Leyte Reef Conservation Project with Coral Cay Conservation .

The team surveyed the diverse range of marine species that live in some of the least disturbed and researched habitats in the Philippines. This data will allow scientists to produce detailed coastal habitat maps, to be used as an educational and planning tool in the designation of Marine Protected Areas.

They also worked on the community-side of the project: painting water tanks at schools, and educating adults and children in order to increase local awareness of marine environmental issues.

These projects assist in the conservation of biodiversity and the functioning ecosystems upon which the local community depend. Jaudelle, who is studying Politics and International Relations, said: 'I am honoured to have worked on a project, which is continuing to benefit the local community and their way of life.

'One of the best things about the Philippines is the people. We were touched by their warmth and it's thanks to the combined understanding of cultural differences and the participation of the provincial government of South Leyte that this environmental project can continue.'

Dr Rachel Forrester-Jones, Master of Rutherford College, University of Kent, said: 'We are delighted that student volunteers such as Jaudelle Gold-Detchebs are getting involved in projects that benefit local communities in different parts of the world. Their involvement also enhances their general education. We encourage as many students as possible to participate in such worthwhile projects at home or abroad.'

Pete Raine MBE, Founder and CEO of Coral Cay Conservation, said: 'The work of volunteers such as Jaudelle Gold-Detchebs does not go unrecognised. Their contribution is of vital importance to the work carried out by Coral Cay Conservation and it is thanks to the Jack Petchey Foundation that we have been able this offer unique volunteering opportunity to small groups of British students.'

Contact: mediaoffice@kent.ac.uk

Story published at 12:32pm 24 October 2008