Whiteboard Presentations (Sara, Cullen, Sophia, and Mike)

Sara presented last Saturday on the influence of land use on wildlife and livestock in the Kalahari by looking at species diversity on protected wildlife lands and pastoral grazing areas. By examining these two areas during the dry and wet seasons, migratory patterns were discerned, with livestock moving into wildlife areas during the dry season.

On Tuesday, Cullen presented on struggles faced by indigenous peoples around the world, including the San people of Botswana. As indigenous is a difficult word to define, the implementation of international policy can be problematic, especially considering the varied positions of indigenous people worldwide.

Today, Sophia gave a presentation on HIV in Botswana, a country with a relatively high HIV prevalence rate. As certain cultural practices have led to a stigma surrounding the disease, more work still needs to be done on tackling the issue.

Afterwards, Mike presented on the health of the San people, with specific regards to before and after their relocation outside of Central Kalahari Game Reserve in 2002. The relocation of the San to permanent settlements has been seen as problematic for these traditionally nomadic people. As there is no word for health in the San language, the interview-style study had to instead asked interviewees what a good life meant.

Sara with her presentation on livestock and wildlife patterns in response to land use in the Kalahari.

 Cullen with his whiteboard on indigenous issues.

Sophia with her presentation on HIV in Botswana.

Mike is a bit nervous right before presenting to the class on the San.