The ASSETS programme, since its inception in 2001, has solicited for Eco-bursaries which have benefited hundreds of needy, bright students from around Arabuko Sokoke Forest and Mida Creek. A Rocha Kenya works closely with Muvera wa ASSETS members (parents whose children have benefited from the bursary scheme) to actively involve the children in conservation of the environment.
A Rocha Kenya together with parents(Muvera wa ASSETS) and pupils, organized a tree planting activity at Chipande Primary School( a school that has benefited from the ASSETS programme) and managed to plant more than 300 seedlings of indigenous trees.
Establishing tree nurseries and maintaining woodlots at home is one of the key requirements Muvera wa ASSETS members have to fulfill. This minimizes the pressure exerted on the forest when communities need wood for fuel, construction and other household uses.The pupils on the other hand were expected to take care of each tree and monitor the growth of the various trees planted.
It was an opportunity to widen their knowledge on trees as they were taught the botanical names and the significance of various indigenous trees as well as forests.For instance the ability to provide: food and medicine to humans , a suitable habitat for endemic fauna, and acting as carbon sinks.