Your thoughts about the WWF Pakistan eco-internship

Educators
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Article here: https://www.thenews.com.pk/magazine/us/1240663-the-benefits-of-internships-for-students

Bonus points for spotting the non-Pakistani organisms shown in the AI-generated images!

WWF Eco-Internship:

  1. The first task, “Biodiversity Spotter,” involves using the iNaturalist app to identify and document at least four species in your local area. This task enhances your understanding of local biodiversity while contributing to global citizen science efforts.
  2. The second task, “Digital Advocacy,” challenges you to create a digital poster or infographic outlining five practical steps for living sustainably. This exercise sharpens your ability to communicate complex environmental issues clearly and effectively to a broad audience.
  3. The third task, “Youth 4 Action,” is hands-on, involving the planting of at least one sapling in a local park or garden, directly contributing to reforestation efforts that help mitigate climate change. This experience emphasizes the importance of restoring the planet’s green cover and demonstrates how individual actions can create collective impact.
  4. In the fourth task, “Save Our Species,” you’ll research three endangered species found in Pakistan and write a 100-word piece on each, highlighting their ecological significance, the threats they face, and the urgent need for their conservation. Sharing this research on social media further raises awareness and encourages others to take action.
  5. Lastly, you’ll create a video titled “A World Without Plastic,” in which you explore the devastating effects of plastic pollution on marine and terrestrial ecosystems, present data-driven arguments, and advocate for sustainable alternatives. This video serves as a platform to inspire others to join the fight against plastic waste.
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I’m lacking meaningful context to have any true opinions, but just from the article, I like the idea of having really clear and concrete steps, that are small enough to be readily achievable. It seems like a decent way to engage a large group- relatively hands off for organizers, but measurable to ensure that participants are actually, well, participating.

If I was in high school (or an equivalent) I would see something like this as a good way to take something that I’m interested in and turn it into something clearcut and official looking to put on a resume or college application.

So, nice for helping grow potential professionals in the field! The tasks themselves seem potentially positive, but almost more of a side benefit. (And calling the program an internship does feel like a little bit of a stretch…)

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