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 >

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