On November 12, the Russian-language comprehensive school at the Russian Embassy in Ethiopia hosted an unforgettable meeting with representatives of the Joint Russian-Ethiopian Expedition, one of the oldest international projects of the Russian Academy of Sciences. Biologists from the A.N. Severtsov Institute of Ecology and Evolution of the Russian Academy of Sciences (IEE RAS), who have dedicated their lives to the study of wildlife, shared their unique knowledge and captivating stories with the students.
The expedition's scientists discussed snakes—the amazing and diverse creatures that inhabit our planet. The children learned about various snake species, their habits, habitats, and role in the ecosystem. Special attention was paid to safety and rules of conduct when encountering snakes in the wild.
The scientists also told the children about parasites—often unnoticed, yet crucial participants in biological processes—and explained the role parasites play in regulating population sizes and maintaining balance in nature.
The topic of endemic fish species found only in Ethiopia was of particular interest. The students learned about the causes of endemism and the need to preserve unique ecosystems.
One of the main topics was the story of Vavilov's expedition, that of a legendary scientist who made a significant contribution to the study of cultivated plant diversity. The students learned about the expedition's goals and objectives, its scientific results, and its significance for the development of agriculture.
The meeting took place in a lively and relaxed atmosphere. The students actively asked questions, and the scientists eagerly shared their experiences and knowledge. This event will undoubtedly remain in the students' memories for a long time and perhaps inspire some of them to pursue a career in science.