In a hands-on push to bridge environmental theory with real-world conservation, students from Phek Government College (PGC) traded their lecture halls for the lush canopy of the Lozaphuhu Community Conserved Area (CCA) on July 25.

The immersive field trip, organized by the Department of Environmental Sciences (EVS) in collaboration with the National Service Scheme (NSS) and the Department of Botany, brought first-semester BA and B.Sc students face-to-face with one of the region’s finest examples of community-driven forest management.

Guided by EVS Head of Department, Vilhoutuonuo Theȕnuo, the excursion aimed to ignite a passion for biodiversity, deepen understanding of sustainable ecosystems, and give rising scholars vital field experience in ecological studies.

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A key highlight of the day was an engaging briefing by NSS Convenor, Dr Zhokusheyi Rhakho, who unpacked the rich history, governance, and daily stewardship of the Lozaphuhu CCA.

Dr Rhakho emphasized how local indigenous traditions and community vigilance remain the ultimate shield in protecting fragile ecosystems and ensuring natural resources are used responsibly for generations to come.

The initiative ran seamlessly under the expert supervision of Assistant Professors, Dr Pfüchüpe-ü Mero, Dr Neilhousano Nakhro and Ronald Difoe making the field study both a safe and highly impactful learning experience.