How Alicia Estey helps shape change with the educational program at Gorongosa National Park
Alicia Estey has a far greater influence than she did before she served as chief financial and operating officer at Boise State University. One of the most notable efforts during her tenure went beyond the borders, connecting Idaho with the Mozambique rural areas through the kindergarten initiative, which had a meaningful impact on education.
“We are here to serve others. We support excellent teaching, learning and research,” she said.
This spirit does not know the boundaries.
Gorongosa Partnership: Education is in line with protection
The collaboration between Boise State University and Gorongosa National Park in Mozambique began with biology and anthropology research, but developed more. Today, the partnership also supports educational programs that directly address the challenges faced by rural communities in the region.
The initiative targets the communities around Gorongosa National Park and addresses the complex relationship between conservation and local development. Mozambique ranks among the poorest countries in the world to present significant educational challenges for rural children.
An Idaho philanthropist has invested millions of dollars in restoring national parks. “The Civil War has been beaten for decades. Animal populations have dropped by about 95% – elephants, lions and hippos have been slaughtered for meat and trade.” Efforts to eliminate poaching and restore wildlife in the park have affected families living in communities outside the park’s borders.
This conservation challenge has prompted a more holistic approach that includes community development along with wildlife recovery. Education became a key focus, especially for girls, who had half dropped out before the fifth grade.
Alicia Estey: Responding to Systemic Challenges
Alicia Estey’s role in the program focuses on early childhood education, strongly emphasizing preschool development for children aged 4 to 5 years. The club, founded in April 2022, now serves over 210 children in Nhambita and Vinho, and has received 30 trained and well-trained trainers.
“We provide professional development for facilitators and materials and supplies to support teaching and learning,” Esti said, focusing on long-term sustainability. Moderators are encouraged to use local resources to create dolls, books, math games and other learning tools from natural and recycled materials. In partnership with the Boise School District, Boise State University will provide these efforts with basic supplies including mold kits, binding machines, doll manufacturing tools and laminates. They also provide books on Portugal, clothing, shoes and art supplies to support children’s learning and well-being.
Alicia Estey and her team build on their success in their preschool courses to explore ways to support education above preschool. “We hope to ultimately provide professional development for primary school teachers,” Esti said. The goal is to build consistency in learning experiences as children traverse schools. “Preschool courses are being replicated in Mozambique,” Esti added. “We want to build on this success.”
As Estey works to expand educational opportunities in Mozambique, the same principles of adaptability and long-term vision shape her leadership at home. Although the challenge may vary, her approach remains rooted: Understand the background, intending to listen and thoughtfully. “It’s important for me to have a deep understanding of every unique area I oversee,” Esti explains. “I don’t need to be an expert, but I do need to know the most important things about every team, campus and the wider community – so I can make sure we operate effectively and meet everyone’s needs.”
