World Wetlands Day 2026: Educating the Next Generation on the Value of Wetlands by Brent Simon

In observance of World Wetlands Day 2026, Mrs. Camellia Wallace-Tonge / Senior Forestry Assistant and Ms. Jenel Warner/Tour Guide within the Forestry Unit of the Ministry of Agriculture, engaged students in a hands-on educational initiative aimed at increasing awareness of wetlands and their importance to Antigua and Barbuda’s environment.

As part of this year’s activities, Minoah Magnet Primary School was invited to participate in a structured learning experience designed specifically for Grade 5 and Grade 6 students. The initiative focused on helping students understand what wetlands are, why they are important, and how they contribute to environmental health and community well-being.

The day’s programme was divided into two key components. The first was a classroom-based presentation, where students were introduced to wetlands through interactive discussion. This session explored the role wetlands play in supporting wildlife, conserving water, and protecting coastlines, while it also encouraged students to think critically about environmental responsibility and stewardship.

Following the classroom session, students took part in a guided field learning experience at McKinnon’s Salt Pond, one of Antigua’s significant wetland areas. During this visit, students observed the wetland environment firsthand and learned about its ecological functions, gaining practical insight into concepts discussed earlier in the classroom. The field component reinforced learning by connecting theory with real-world observation.

This approach reflects the global World Wetlands Day 2026 theme, “Wetlands and Traditional Knowledge: Celebrating Cultural Heritage.” Wetlands in Antigua and Barbuda have long supported livelihoods, food systems, and traditional practices, particularly within coastal communities. Passing this understanding to younger generations remains a key part of fostering long-term environmental respect and care.

Over the years, Antigua and Barbuda has marked World Wetlands Day through education, public awareness, and community engagement, highlighting the role wetlands play in biodiversity conservation and climate resilience. Efforts to raise awareness have benefited from the work of environmental advocates and public officials, whose contributions helped strengthen national dialogue around wetlands, mangroves, and coastal ecosystems.

World Wetlands Day continues to serve as an important reminder of the value of these ecosystems and the need for informed stewardship. By combining classroom learning with field-based experiences, the Ministry of Agriculture, through the Forestry Unit, supports initiatives that build environmental understanding from an early age and encourage appreciation for Antigua and Barbuda’s natural heritage.