Lampeter University’s Critical Evaluations
On 28 July 2009 the volunteers from the education team, on the Ugandan Leg, of The Great Primate Handshake held an hour long link-up with students from Lampeter University’s Summer University program.
The Summer University students were set the task of evaluating the worthwhile nature of The Great Primate Handshake through researching the website and then asking one question each to the volunteers, Ben Gething, Nicola Merrett, Nicloa Skilling and Team Leader, Kirsty McQueen.
Uganda to Wales
The students asked questions relating to the ethical nature of the Handshake; monetary and business matters; and the reasons behind helping primates when there are so many other social and welfare issues in the world. The volunteers took all thirty questions and responded to the best of their abilities, showing their knowledge and understanding of the part the handshake is playing in worldwide conservation.
Below are some snip-its from Lampeter University students’ critical evaluations:
“I feel that, first, I must express my admiration for the volunteers willingness to adapt their skills in order to benefit others, and no matter what flaws I point out in my evaluation, I thoroughly acknowledge that their cause is a noble one.
My main criticisms are basically about the presentation of the organization. Fundamentally, the idea of adapting skills like computer programming and photography, that are not generally associated with hands-on charity work, in such a way as to not only aid primate sanctuaries but also educate the younger generation and thus promote future conservation, is a very innovative one. However, in presenting their organization, their aims seem uncertain due to the fact that what they do is very vague. It was not until we communicated through the skype linkup that everyone fully understood that they do not work hands-on in the sanctuaries but rather, work exclusively in promoting and raising awareness. This problem could easily be resolved with a brief and easily accessible page on their website.”
Alaw Llewellyn Roberts, Aug 2009
“One person asked that if they were a non-profit organization, where all the raised money went. I personally found the answer to this question very interesting. They explained that the money was split between a number of things; the travelling while they are there, accommodation, food and permits to be able to stay in the country.
Another interesting question was that the current financial crisis affecting the project in anyway? I thought this was a good question because it was up-to-date and important. The team answered that out there it wasn’t really a problem and they hadn’t felt the need for any changes. However they did say it might have been a concern for volunteers who are trying to fundraise to go out to the project.
In conclusion I believe that the project is good idea and that it is benefiting the local environment and the conservation of primates in Africa. I also was very impressed with the ‘Skype’ link-up and they seemed prepared for any questions and were willing to answer in full by giving a detailed response.”
Cerian Brooks, Aug 2009
