Form Three Geography Trip to Chiwondo Lagoon and Ngala Hot Springs
On February 15, Wasambo Boys High School organized an educational geography trip for Form Three students to Chiwondo Lagoon and Ngala Hot Springs. The trip, led by geography teachers Mr. Mhango and Mr. Kaonga, aimed to give students a hands-on learning experience by exploring natural geographical features. The journey began at 9:00 AM, with students filled with excitement, singing joyfully along the way. Due to rough roads, the group arrived at Chiwondo Lagoon at 1:00 PM, later than expected.
At the lagoon, students had the opportunity to walk around and observe its natural formation. Experiencing the environment firsthand helped them understand classroom lessons in a more practical way. They also captured photos to document their experience. A particularly amusing moment occurred when one of the students excitedly shouted, "Come and see a crocodile!" Many students rushed to look, only to realize it was floating debris. This moment brought laughter and added to the day's memorable experiences.
At 3:00 PM, the group proceeded to Ngala Hot Springs, a fascinating site where naturally heated water flows from the ground. Students eagerly touched the warm water and asked insightful questions, which the teachers explained in detail. Some students even took a brief bath in the nearby lake, expressing their excitement. One enthusiastic student, eager to be the first, quickly scooped the warm water and shouted, "Yes! I am the first one to touch the hot spring!" These moments made the experience both educational and enjoyable.
During the visit, Mr. Kaonga explained the geological significance of the area, highlighting that Karonga sits along the East African Rift Valley, which contributes to the underground heating of water. This lesson helped students understand why such natural phenomena occur. Some students also searched for oyster shells, hoping to find pearls inside, while others reflected on their experiences. One student humorously commented, "That’s why I am walking slowly," which amused the group.
At 3:40 PM, the students and teachers began their journey back to school, arriving at 5:00 PM. The trip was a great success, providing students with a unique opportunity to apply their knowledge in a real-world setting. Such educational visits reinforce classroom learning and inspire curiosity about the environment. The school remains committed to offering more hands-on learning experiences in the future, as traveling is learning, and real-world exploration is one of the best ways to educate and inspire students.
