Entering the vibrant grounds of the University of Lúrio, in Niassa Province, the energy of the students is palpable. A loud thud-thud of a bouncing basketball fills the air as underclassmen play informally between classes, punctuated by laughter and shouts. In the adjacent hallway, Jonas Masuki is preparing to enter a classroom. As the coordinator of the Forestry Engineering Programme at the University of Lúrio, Jonas combines his passion for education and his expertise in wood science to cultivate a new generation of forestry engineers.
Jonas’s journey began in Maputo, but it was his arrival in Niassa in 2009 that would change the course of his life. After studying forestry engineering, he became a dedicated member of the teaching staff in 2014, determined to foster sustainable practices in a country rich in natural resources.
“I believe in the potential of our forests,” he shares, reflecting on his vision for Mozambique’s future.
At the University of Lúrio, Jonas oversees a diverse curriculum that includes three key programmes: Forestry Engineering, Rural Development, and Electromechanical Engineering. With around 351 students enrolled, he emphasizes the importance of integrating sustainable practices into their education. “We teach our students about planting native species and rehabilitating degraded ecosystems,” he explains, highlighting the need for responsible forestry practices in a rapidly changing environment.
The University of Lúrio also prioritizes collaboration with local forestry companies. Through practical classes and internships, students gain hands-on experience that often leads to employment.
“Many of our graduates work as technicians in civil cultivation and wood processing,” Jonas notes, illustrating the tangible impact of these partnerships.
Moreover, the university’s commitment to sustainability extends to innovative projects aimed at utilizing wood waste. “We are developing a wood technology laboratory to convert forest waste into briquettes and pellets for the energy sector,” he states. This initiative not only addresses the issue of waste but also reduces the pressure on Mozambique’s natural forests, which are often overharvested for charcoal and firewood.
Jonas is optimistic about the future of forestry in Mozambique. He recognizes the unique potential of Niassa, the largest province in the country, and believes that with proper management, the region’s resources can be sustainably harnessed. “We are at the forefront of developing the forestry sector, and there is immense opportunity for growth,” he affirms.
In his role, Jonas also champions gender equality in forestry. With approximately 40% of students in the programme being female, he advocates for increased participation of women in the sector. “Empowering women is crucial for achieving gender equality in forestry and agriculture,” he emphasizes. Women often gravitate towards conservation roles, contributing significantly to sustainable practices in the industry.
As the midday sun settles over the university’s grounds, not a cloud in the sky, Jonas reflects on the challenges ahead. The path to sustainable forestry is fraught with obstacles, from climate change to resource management, yet his resolve remains unwavering.
“Through education and innovation, we can transform the forestry landscape in Mozambique,” he says with conviction.
Jonas Masuki stands at the intersection of tradition and progress, nurturing the future of Mozambique’s forests. With every student he mentors and every initiative he inspires, he is laying the groundwork for a greener, more sustainable tomorrow.