On of the ongoing programs in the Isandlwana Village (KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa) is Eco-Schools. This program brings environmental learning and action into the classrooms in a constructive and participatory way. The Isandlwana primary school is one of the local leaders in the program, having earned a silver certificate for their efforts in their gardening projects.
School Gardens in Isandlwana
The Eco-Schools Programme was launched in South Africa in 2003 and now involves over 1,000 school throughout South Africa and involves schools in 47 countries world-wide. These schools have all made commitments to environmental learning and actions and are involved in some type of environmental project. These projects are integrated with national curriculum and work to:
- Improve the school environment;
- Build young people’s confidence and sense of citizenship through participation;
- Increase environmental awareness;
- Involve the community;
- Reduce litter and waste;
- Reduce costs by saving water and electricity; and,
- Develop relationships with other schools throughout South Africa and worldwide.
Eco-Schools Training in Isandlwana
After joining Eco-Schools, each school begins an intensive process to develop an eco-code, select a theme and get to work! Themes include resource use, nature and biodiversity, local and global issues, healthy living and community heritage. Eco-Schools provides a very detailed handbook to help teachers and students achieve positive results. Each year, schools submit a portfolio of their project and are awarded flags and/or certificates for their hard work. These awards encourage the students and reward the school and community’s dedication to their environmental programs. Learn more about Eco-Schools world-wide >
