The Boise State community has deep roots at Gorongosa National Park in Mozambique. Researchers, students and community members have worked there for many years through the Gorongosa Restoration Project to support the preservation of the park and its biological treasures.
As part of the large-scale volunteer effort that began on campus earlier this spring to 3D print face shields to protect against the the Corona virus, the university provided 200 shields to the park for use by rangers, healthcare workers in surrounding communities and others.
“It is true that a virus can spread around the world,” said Michel Sousa, a Mozambican student who is pursuing a career in public health at Boise State. “But an act of kindness will also spread. Boise State is helping us protect 200 caregivers in Mozambique who in turn will help tens of thousands of people.”
Amy Vecchione, an associate professor and head of emerging technologies and experiential learning at Albertsons Library, headed the volunteer 3D-printing effort. Vecchione shared the image of the Gorongosa rangers sent by Greg Carr.
“Note, they are also wearing face masks,” said Vecchione. “This is because the shields protect them from illness, and the masks protect others.”
Carr, an Idaho philanthropist is president of the Gorongosa Project and recipient of a 2015 honorary doctorate from Boise State for his humanitarian work. Learn more about Carr and Gorongosa: https://edition.cnn.com/travel/article/inside-africa-gorongosa-national-park-spc-intl/index.html