China Looks to S. Africa to Save Rhinos

China, one of the largest consumers of rhino horn, is sending students to South Africa to learn how to protect the endangered species. Students from several universities in China visited South Africa this week, ahead of World Rhino Day on Saturday, to learn and then educate their own communities on environmental and rhino protection matters, the African News Agency reported. China is one of the largest consumers of rhino horn. The initiative is to inspire change and help protect Africa's natural heritage. The scheme uses the creative skills of Chinese youth to inspire change as a formal part of their university curriculum. It is the outcome of a partnership between the Peace Parks Foundation and Tongji University. This year the group traveled to Hluhluwe iMfolozi Park in KwaZulu-Natal, which is also known as the birthplace of the rhino. Through workshops, students engaged with experts who have been working in conservation for many years. They heard personal accounts of the costs involved in anti-poaching operations, the sacrifices it demands and the rewards when animals are saved.