Dr Tatyana (Tanya) Humle will be taking leave from the university from July 1st, 2022 to help coordinate the ARRC task force within the IUCN SSC Primate Specialist Group Section on Great Apes and Small Apes and implement, for the next couple of years, a capacity building programme funded by United Nations- Great Apes Survival Partnership (GRASP) and the Global Environmental Fund (GEF) until the end of June 2024.
This capacity building programme aims to strengthen the capacity of Central African primatologists to effectively advise industrial development projects directly, or through ARRC’s independent panels to ‘avoid, reduce, restore negative impacts from energy, extractive and associated infrastructure projects on apes and contribute positively to their conservation’.
‘This is a unique opportunity’ she told us ‘which will contribute immensely to improving best practices, standards and policies when it comes to environmental impact assessments in regions where wild apes occur, while further enhancing capacity building for conservation-applied research in Africa.’
Tanya Humle is consequently stepping down as Head of School and Dr Chris Deter has kindly agreed to step into the breech as interim Head of School for Anthropology and Conservation.
Professor David Wilkinson, Director of Division paid tribute to all her achievements in the role.
‘I am extremely thankful for Tanya’s dedicated contribution, and especially pleased that her departure coincides with the School’s impressive REF outcomes. Tanya has led the School in a steadfast and highly informed manner, showing a tireless and passionate commitment to staff and students in all parts of the School. We’re also really grateful to Chris who will be in place until Dec 2022 and wish her well in her new role.’