Animal welfare and research complement each other perfectly at Chimfunshi: primate researchers from around the world come to Chimfunshi to investigate the chimpanzees’ behaviour, enrich their lives, and learn about how to further enhance their welfare. Scientists are studying social behaviour, communication and cognition. Some scientists bring along international student programs that teach students the methods of behavioural research.
Chimfunshi works closely and regularly with scientists from the Max Planck Institutes for Evolutionary Anthropology (Leipzig, Germany) and for Psycholinguistics (Nijmegen, Netherlands), the Free University of Berlin and Gonzaga University in the U.S. All scientists who come to Chimfunshi present their findings on site to exchange knowledge with the local staff and community. Many visiting students teach at the local school to help the children learn about and develop appreciation for their unique environment.
The Education Centre at Chimfunshi not only attracts international primate scientists and students but also Zambian school classes and their teachers.