An environmentalist from Rwanda studying in West Virginia University’s Office of Sustainability will finish his 14-week program today.
Pacifique Rusizana was placed at WVU in August through the Counsel for International Programs to learn about WVU’s environmental programs and sustainability projects.
"The hope is that he will take aspects he’s learned here and adapt them to his country in order to make some change," said Clement Solomon, director of the Office of Sustainability at WVU.
Studying under Solomon, Rusizana learned about the use of organic manures, recycling, management of drills and the exploitation of mines.
Rusizana hopes to improve solid waste management, recycling and forestry in Rwanda.
He has visited various programs at WVU, including the recycling center, the Solid Waste Authority and the WVU forest, Solomon said.
Rusizana has also acquired some English speaking skills while working at WVU, though he primarily speaks French.
"I learned a lot from the things here, in particular the American culture, but also I have gained some work experience in connection with the environment and the agriculture," Rusizana said, in an English translation.
The Rwanda Environment Management Authority was formed to help the state of the environment in Rwanda.
According to its Web site, there is an "alarming rate of environmental destruction as a result of population pressure, serious erosion, pressure on natural resources, massive deforestation and pollution in its various forms."
Because of these problems with the environment, Rusizana wants to help familiarize others about helping preserve its structure.
It is also beneficial to Rusizana’s career as an environmentalist in the mining industry to know about environmental factors and how to deal with issues relating to sustainability.
Rusizana plans to speak with local authorities and the Rwanda Environment Authority Management about
implementing environmentally friendly behaviors upon his return.
Be the first to comment on this article!