Cooper Rosin , Nathan D. Schulfer , Paul H. Zedler , Graden Z.L. Froese , Clinton N. Jenkins , Walter Mbamy , Natalia Ocampo-Peñuela
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引用次数: 0
Abstract
Despite the recognized need to address global inequalities in conservation research, there has been little effort to understand and address the concomitant lack of higher education capacity in biodiversity conservation, particularly in the Global South. This hampers international efforts to meet goals in conservation planning, policy, and practice, including those defined by the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework. In this study, we surveyed universities and conservation practitioners across 48 priority countries – those with high conservation value, moderate education index, and low-to-moderate research productivity – to assess the global status and needs of higher education in biodiversity conservation. Our results highlight substantial opportunity to develop educational capacity where it is most needed, with 44 % of priority countries (61 % of universities) lacking any degree programs focused on biodiversity conservation, and 93 % of survey respondents wishing to strengthen or expand their curricula. The lack of educational opportunities was the main factor cited for why half of the surveyed conservation practitioners pursued their education abroad, and why 55 % believe that the educational offerings in their country are insufficient to train the next generation of conservation leaders. Survey results were remarkably consistent in describing how the broader conservation community can best support the development of educational capacity in priority countries: pursue collaborative research and knowledge exchange, expand internship and job opportunities, and improve student funding. These actions will require the initiative and resources of external partners, including conservation NGOs, government agencies, international researchers, and other universities. Developing this capacity merits conscientious effort from the global conservation community.
期刊介绍:
Biological Conservation is an international leading journal in the discipline of conservation biology. The journal publishes articles spanning a diverse range of fields that contribute to the biological, sociological, and economic dimensions of conservation and natural resource management. The primary aim of Biological Conservation is the publication of high-quality papers that advance the science and practice of conservation, or which demonstrate the application of conservation principles for natural resource management and policy. Therefore it will be of interest to a broad international readership.