REVIEW CONFERENCE ON “GEOPARK AMBASSADOR CLUB” MODEL AND SHARING EXPERIENCE ABOUT THE IMPLEMENTATION OF UNESCO GLOBAL GEOPARK EDUCATION WITH DONG VAN KARST PLATEAU, HA GIANG

The conference was attended by representative leaders and officials of Cao Bang Department of Education and Training, Non nuoc Cao Bang UGGp Management Board, Dong Van karst plateau Management Board, teachers involving in “geopark ambassador club” model of the piloted high schools and secondary schools in Cao Bang city and some teachers in charge of geopark education for schools in Dong Van karst plateau area, Ha Giang.

At the conference, the participants listened to speeches delivered by teachers who are in charge of “geopark ambassador club” model in the piloted schools: Effectiveness of geopark education through “geopark ambassador club” model for schools ( presented by Ms. Luong Thi Thanh Thuy – teacher of Cao Bang Ethnic Minority Boarding school), Experience and Difficulties in “geopark ambassador club” implementation in secondary schools ( presented by Ms. Ha Kim Anh – English teacher of Hop Giang Secondary school) and Experience and Difficulties in “geopark ambassador club” implementation in high schools ( presented by Ms. Tran Thi Thoan – History teacher of Cao Bang high school for gifted students).

Besides, the teachers in charge of the club in the piloted schools shared the advantages, disadvantages and benefits of implementing “geopark ambassador club” model and the orientation of geopark education implementation in the coming time. In addition, the representatives of Dong Van karst plateau geopark presented their experience in implementing UNESCO global geopark education activities, especially, geopark education for schools. The conference participants also listened to some experience and initiatives about geopark education for students in Dong Van karst plateau geopark area. 
“Geopark ambassador club” model is piloted in 6 schools (3 secondary schools and 3 high schools in Cao Bang city). Each club has 15 to 20 students with passion for exploring culture, history, geology and is guided by 1 or 2 teachers. Club members had a chance to learn about the importance of establishing and developing Non nuoc Cao Bang UNESCO global geopark. The students participated in field learning trips to geological, historical and cultural heritage sites and traditional craft villages so that they could understand the importance of heritage preservation and promotion as well as environmental protection. They also had opportunities to develop soft skills such as teamwork skills, communication skills, social skills, organize capacity building and team developing activities. 
Basing on document research, combined with field learning trip experience and with the guidance of teachers and the Management Board of Non nuoc Cao Bang UGGp, the students will organize propaganda activities, competitions or events to introduce the geopark’s heritage values to other students and communities via social media.