This year’s Science Department interns are doing more than gaining hands-on experience in cutting-edge environmental research—they’re inspiring the next generation of scientists in their own communities.
These bright, passionate graduates from secondary schools in the six districts* surrounding Gorongosa National Park were selected for their academic excellence and love for science and conservation. They’re diving deep into the Park’s scientific life, working on research projects at the E.O. Wilson Biodiversity Laboratory alongside national and international scientists, receive personalized mentoring, and preparing for university entrance exams. Beyond the lab, the students are also giving back to their communities by organizing conservation and biology lectures and sharing the Gorongosa story.
*(Gorongosa, Nhamatanda, Dondo, Muanza, Cheringoma, and Marínguè)
To learn more about these students, scroll below.
Gorongosa 2024 Science Department interns include (from top left to right) Helena Gonçalo José Vasco, João Antônio Alberto Mangaze, Luisa Moisés Luís, Miguel Abel Fernando Bero and Franque Ngano Franque Andicene.
Helena Gonçalo José Vasco, born in Gorongosa District in Sofala Province, completed 12th grade at Cristo Rei High School in Gorongosa. Her expectations are to learn a lot about biodiversity and prepare for the next stage of life, which is college.
João Antônio Alberto Mangaze, was born in the Dondo district, Sofala Province. He completed grade 12 at Savane High School. His expectations are to learn more about and contribute positively to projects related to biodiversity conservation. After finishing the internship, he plans to enroll in a university.
Luisa Moisés Luís, born in Gorongosa, Sofala Province, completed 12th grade at Cristo Rei High School. Her expectations are to learn about biodiversity and prepare for the next stage of life that follows at college.
Miguel Abel Fernando Bero, originally from Mutarara, Tete province, completed grade 12 at 3 Fevereiro High School in Muanza Sede. His expectations during the internship are to learn more about conservation of biodiversity and to apply to university.
Franque Ngano Franque Andicene, born in the city of Beira, Sofala province, is a Geology and Mining graduate from the Jean Piaget University of Mozambique. He is currently in an intern working in GIS and spatial data management for conservation areas. His expectations are to learn as much as possible, assume relevant responsibilities in the spatial data management sector and effectively contribute to projects.