Project week is a major part of all UWC experiences, and an aspect of which we have all been excited for from the very beginning.
Before even coming to MUWCI, we were sent an email with all the proposed project weeks, and as students we chose which one to participate in. From Himalayan hiking, to working with sexual minorities, to teaching young children, to interacting with the tribal communities of India, each Project has a unique angle, mission and interest.
Madras Crocodile Bank Trust, home to 27 reptilian species including 2546 individuals, was set up with the aim of promoting the conservation of reptiles and amphibians on the Indian subcontinent.
Last week, we travelled in a group of ten MUWCI students and two faculty to Tamil Nadu, in South India, for seven days of sweat, bad smells, cold showers, more mosquitoes than we knew existed, early mornings and shovelling shit.
Sound like fun?
Well, upon return, I can tell you that 'fun' doesn't even begin to describe it.
Night walks on the nature trail, learning about the animals and their conservation, amazing wildlife everywhere, jumping in a pit with the largest captive crocodile in Asia, feeding the magnificent gharials and pythons, butterfly surveys, good food, sightseeing, chill time on the beach, seemingly endless games of 'never have I ever'... these just a few of the many activities that kept us (very) busy during our stay at croc bank.
The staff on hand were fantastic- so interesting and keen to share their knowledge, as well as facilitating numerous activities and talks for us.
A five o' clock start on one morning saw us on a walk with two members of the Irula tribe- known across India for their snake tracking and catching techniques. After environmental legislation outlawed the catching and killing of wild snakes, the Irulas were left somewhat stranded. Thankfully, they were able to continue their practice, by using their unique skills to track snakes for venom-extraction, used later for antidotes to snakebites. On our walk, we witnessed these skills first hand- something truly special.
The same afternoon, we met with some of the women of the tribe, and learnt about their work, in the growing and production of medicinal plants. ITWWS (Irula Tribe Women's Welfare Society) was set up for the documentation of Irula knowledge and culture, as well as the creation of strong leadership amongst Irula women, allowing them to carry on their practices and increasing opportunity for them.
I could go on for four volumes about our project week, but instead here are some pictures, which will probably give you a better idea of what this incredible week was really like:
So there you have it.
Thank you so much, croc bank!
I'll be back soon...
Thanks for reading,
Maria xXx
