ORKCA & UNESCO Global Geoparks Intensive Course
UNESCO Global Geoparks, in collaboration with the University of the Aegean’s Department of Geography and the Natural History Museum of the Lesvos Petrified Forest, hosted the International Course on UNESCO Global Geoparks: ‘Management and Sustainability’ from 20–29 June 2025 on Lesvos Island, Greece.
Representing ORKCA on this global platform, among 65 representatives from over 30 countries, our reserve manager, Jannie, had the privilege of attending this esteemed ten-day event. The primary objective of this global event was to train and educate current and aspiring geopark managers on the significance of UNESCO Global Geoparks, their practical impact on communities and society, and the broader conceptual issues surrounding them.
LEARNING FROM THE EXPERTS
The event featured a diverse group of experts and academics. Speakers brought experience in geopark management and development, geoheritage, geodiversity protection, sustainability education, and sustainable local development.
This international intensive course was valuable because it equipped current and aspiring geopark managers with the knowledge to recognise important sites and develop strategies to safeguard them.
Participants explored topics that broadened their understanding of careful planning for future geoparks, whether an area has geological features that are globally deemed important and how to set-up and manage these geoparks.
A typical day kicked off bright and early with breakfast, then it was all aboard the bus to the University of Mytilene. From morning until early evening, Jannie said they bounced between lectures and discussions covering all sorts of topics. Some days were spiced up with field trips, turning the island into a living classroom. It was a course of jam-packed days, including epic adventures and many ideas being shared and explored.
WHAT THIS MEANS FOR ORKCA
Jannie attending this course was beneficial and insightful for both himself and ORKCA. The course was invaluable, as it enables Jannie to share his knowledge with the team and deepen our collective understanding of geoparks. Similarly, we now have a greater opportunity to share this knowledge with our local communities and highlight the importance of protecting our geological heritage.
GOING FORWARD
Although ORKCA is not yet recognised as a geopark, our aim is to keep learning, growing, and aligning ourselves with global geopark standards. We believe that the landscapes we protect and the communities who live among them, deserve to be celebrated.
‘‘This training opened my eyes to why it is important to protect our geological heritage. With secured funding, we will begin research and safeguard these important sites, which will later support tourism and bring new opportunities for the people.” Jannie shared.
This will not only benefit ORKCA but also help restore Namibia’s beautiful, rich landforms for future generations and promote sustainable local development.
‘‘This course made me aware of how much potential Namibia has in developing multiple geoparks. It is important to protect our traditional and cultural heritage because it connects local communities to the stories and history within our landscapes,’’ Jannie shared.
