JACKSON, Miss. (AP) — Jackson State University is sponsoring a rare Sumatran Tiger cub at the Jackson Zoo as learning exhibits for children, teaching exercises for students, as well as marketing and zoo membership for university personnel.
The 100-pound male cub, named EKO, was born in May.
EKO, which is Indonesian for “first born,” will be the centerpiece of a Jackson State Tiger exhibit at the zoo. The zoo will host a JSU Tiger Day and will offer special rates for membership to students, alumni, employees and families.
The university will pay $40,000 each year over three years for the sponsorship.
Jackson State President Carolyn Meyers says the school plans, among other things, to create special play areas for small children near the exhibit and installing a “Tiger Cam” and other Internet offerings.
