The Basin School

Engage the local river basin schools, widen the age range of involved citizens.

The river basin schools comprise the schools around the river, including primary and secondary schools, and Chang Jung Christian University (CJCU). Thus, CJCU students can serve as seed teachers at the primary and secondary schools.

The purpose of the river basin school initiative is to make students know their environment, and be aware of the ecology, history and culture of the Erren River. In addition, with field research, the school may unite local communities and together develop a sustainable environment.

The river basin school initiative teaches through action learning. Building on CJCU’s experience of public participation in river rehabilitation, students are taught through a series of river patrols, water quality analyses, and wildlife surveys.

The river basin school is currently expanding its mission, inviting more schools to participate and forging stronger partnerships among school members, to create a greater learning community within the Erren River Basin and render CJCU a unique waterfront university.

The river basin school uses a three step strategy:

Step 1. Raise Awareness of the Erren River

Examine the aquatic environment, conduct water quality tests, and study the history and culture of the Erren River.

Step 2. Seminars on river issues

Identify any problems within the Erren River basin, devise strategies to solve the problems, participate in public forums, and seek involvement in the decision processes of local and central government.

Step 3. Form a river basin local council

Share experience and discuss problems in the river basin local council, formed by representatives from each school, and liaise with lobby officials and community leaders.