Carolyne Ireri
Privat
At the gates of knowledge: University of Embu
“With the funding by the DAAD-Stiftung I pursued a master's degree in biology of conservation at the University of Embu Kenya, under the guidance e of Dr. Justin Nyaga, who facilitated my research by helping me acquire wildlife cameras, which helped me during the data collection process. The UoEm has supported my research through various workshops and seminars held within the premises which impacted my knowledge and skills and helped me carry out the data collection and analysis process without much difficulty.“
Supported by the Garissa Scholarship, Carolyne Ireri investigated the in general little-noticed damage caused by small mammals to local agriculture during her Master's degree and tried to develop approaches to finding a solution.
In the following, she reports on her results and experiences:
After completing my first academic year, I embarked on my project work. Having been engaged in several fieldwork before pursuing my master's studies, I had a grasp of how small-scale farmers encountered losses to their crops attributable to insects, mammals, and birds among others.
Despite this, little attention was given to them and in turn, the problem escalated to food insecurity. This need pushed me to focus on the challenges faced by small-scale farmers due to small mammals.
From the literature, most studies on human-wildlife conflict (HWC) are conducted on large mammals in major forest lines but little attention has been given to the damage imposed by small mammals to small-scale holders. This gap necessitated me to look into the contribution of small mammals to HWC in three different locations surrounded by major forest fragments within Embu, Kenya.
Privat
Research work in the UoEm laboratory
I have finished analyzing data on my three objectives. Moreover, I had online presentations to share my results and work progress on 27th July 2023 and 25th April 2024. Additionally, I have sent out my manuscript for publication and it's with the editor for peer review. I hope that soon enough the paper will be out and it will be my joy to share my work with you. Currently, I am working on my thesis, and I intend to submit it by the end of May 2024 for examination.
During the study period, my off-campus activities included part-time teaching, and visiting different secondary schools within Embu for guidance and counseling. We are focusing on impacting the girl child and encouraging them to study the science subjects which are neglected by many. Moreover, having nature walks with my husband helped me relax, and thanks to his support, he has contributed much towards my success.
I never thought my life would go back to normal after the barbaric attack by the al-Shabaab militia on innocent students at Garissa University. I was fortunate to be able to progress from one stage of my academic journey (undergraduate) to another (Postgraduate-Masters) without much difficulty due to the financial support I received from DAAD e.V and DAAD-Stiftung respectively which I am ever grateful for.
Privat
Field work for data collection in the forests of Embu, Kenya
It was an honor for me to have been awarded with the Garissa Master Scholarship Kenya by the DAAD-Stiftung which allowed me to continue my studies and lay the foundation for a successful start into my professional life. The scholarship created a new transition to my future goals. The support from DAAD-Stiftung was a great milestone in my academic journey more so, enabling me to conduct my scientific research.
Moreover, the funding provided me a chance to improve my professional skills and helped me build new insights within my field of study. Meeting and interacting with professional scholars in East Africa in Nairobi and getting an opportunity to visit the ambassador's residence would not have been possible without the DAAD-Stiftung support. Again, the financial support received from DAAD-Stiftung sustained me as I had to quit my job which was a little far from the campus to fully concentrate on my studies.
I was honored to attend the DAAD Nairobi 50th Anniversary Events at the University of Nairobi through DAAD-Stiftung support. It was a good networking opportunity to meet DAAD alumni across East Africa who shared their great experience and success journey which motivated me to be more ambitious in achieving my goals. I met one of my undergraduate lecturers Dr. Kessio who encouraged me to keep the fire of education burning. I also made some new contacts whom I believe will influence my academic positively.
Privat
Committed research in the library
As my master’s studies are approaching completion, I am still focused on not lowering my tools but on keeping up the effort. I believe it's worth pursuing a PhD despite the huge financial, emotional, and mental constraints. With funding, personal commitment and self-motivation, I believe I can complete my PhD studies within a maximum of 3 to 4 years. As a professional teacher, I am looking forward to embarking on teaching and carrying out field research as well.
I believe that in the future, I will not be a high school teacher, but a university lecturer and trainer, conducting research tailored towards mitigating problems affecting the community, as well as passionately sharing knowledge. Further, based on my experience at Garissa University, I aspire to start a movement for post-trauma counseling, as well as advocating for peace.
As of November 2023.
