Pupils of the KNUST Preschool have undertaken an educational excursion to the Kumasi Zoological Gardens and the Manhyia Palace Museum, blending classroom learning with real-world experiences.
Mrs. Olivia Ayensu, Deputy Head of KNUST Preschool, said the edutrip formed part of a strand in the KG2 curriculum titled “Important Places in Our Community,” where pupils are exposed to key cultural and environmental landmarks beyond the classroom.
“As part of the school’s term learning activities, we want the pupils to better understand topics taught in class by allowing them to see, feel, and engage directly with their environment,” she explained.
Mrs. Ayensu described the outing as both enriching and memorable.
“It is always wonderful to see the pupils step outside the classroom to discover their environment. Learning becomes more meaningful when they experience things firsthand,” she said. “The pupils had fun alongside learning, and the entire exercise went as planned. It was truly a good day.”
At the Zoological Gardens, the Domestic Lead of the Preschool, Mrs. Grace Addo, said the pupils observed a variety of animals they had previously encountered only in books and pictures.
“Our pupils have always seen these animals in textbooks and photographs, but today they saw them in real life. The pupil learned about animals such as lions, Mona monkeys, Gaboon snakes, Arabian one-hump camels, giant tortoises, among others, including their colours, how they live, and what they eat,” she added.
The educational tour continued at the Manhyia Palace Museum, where the pupils were introduced to aspects of Asante history and culture.
“We have spoken about the palace in class, but today the pupils saw historical artefacts, statues of past kings and queens, and watched videos explaining the palace’s history,” Mrs. Addo said. “They now understand that what they learn in class truly exists.”
She added that the edutrip significantly enriched the teachers accompanying the pupils by expanding their knowledge.
The experience sparked excitement among the young learners, many of whom expressed delight at seeing wild animals up close.
“I was excited to see them,” one pupil, Lady Rossy, said when asked how she felt during the visit.
Mrs. Addo emphasised that such excursions are a longstanding part of the school’s learning strategy.
“These educational visits have always been part of our plans. We hope every child will have the opportunity to enjoy and learn from such experiences during their time here,” she stated.
By: Abigail Ofori
