Newsletter Archive

Man’s best friend is being drafted into the war on wildlife trafficking in Africa. Botswana enlisted canine rangers to help detect illegal wildlife contraband, especially ivory. VOA caught up with the new recruits as they doggedly completed their training.

Some African schools are questioning whether they should continue to teach children in a common colonial language, or integrate local languages into the curriculum. Among the concerns are disputes that may arise when choosing which languages to use.  But requiring students to learn a non-native language could discourage some to pursue education.

In Miami, a coastal city already feeling the effects of climate change, citizen scientists collect data on how deep floodwaters get, and sample the water for chemicals and bacteria.  Putting civilians to work doesn’t just boost manpower, it’s also a great way to get people thinking and talking about what sea level rise will mean for them and their communities.

Quick take video: VOA talked to a Rohingya family that fled Burma to escape persecution.  They eventually made their way to the U.S., where they’re putting together a new life in Syracuse, New York.

Last month, U.S. Catholic bishops voted unanimously to pursue sainthood for Nicholas Black Elk, who’s credited with bringing hundreds of Native Americans to the Catholic faith. But not everyone one supports the move, mindful of the Church’s role in the historic suppression of indigenous cultures.

The ouster of Zimbabwe’s longtime president, Robert Mugabe, means a big change for the African nation, right?  Maybe not, according to some experts, including one who tells VOA “We’ve changed the driver, but it’s the same bus.”