As a Grade 11 learner from Kuisebmond Secondary School, I was thrilled to be a part of an educational tour to the University of Namibia campus in Henties Bay. The trip was a memorable experience, and we learned so much from our visit.
Our Memorable Journey to Henties Bay
The journey to Henties Bay was exciting, and we were all looking forward to the tour. We were split into two groups, and we left in the morning. The trip was educational, and we were eager to learn about the innovative projects happening at Unam.
Unam’s Innovative Sea Water to Freshwater Conversion Technology
Upon arrival, we were welcomed by a friendly employee who became our tour guide for the day. He showed us around the campus and took us to a container where they pump sea water and convert it into freshwater that can be consumed. It was amazing to learn that Unam produces 3000 liters of water per hour, and the water is pumped out about 100 meters high. The water is then pressured through a membrane, which needs to be changed every three to five years.
Oysters and Their Survival Needs
We also learned about oysters and their survival needs. Oysters can die from many things, such as a lack of oxygen and the need for calcium carbonate. We discovered that they can live outside water for up to four days.
Fish Lab Exploration
Another exciting part of the tour was the fish lab, where we saw a school of Tilapia in fresh water. We learned that they feed three times a day, and during the rainy season, they also feed on other fish when they are taken from the sea and brought into freshwater. It takes them two weeks to adapt to the freshwater environment, and they are fed 2-3 times a day during this time.
Exploring the Greenhouse
Lastly, we visited the greenhouse, where we learned about controlled environment plant growth. It was fascinating to see how plants can be grown in a controlled environment and the different types of plants that can be grown there.
In conclusion, the trip to the University of Namibia campus in Henties Bay was an educational and memorable experience. We are grateful to the Unam team for showing us around and teaching us so much. We hope to have more opportunities like this in the future.
Written by: Magreth Jonas, Grade 11C, Kuisebmond Secondary School