The Wildlife and Environment Society of South Africa (WESSA) awarded eight Sun International Eco-Schools for sustained action in environmental sustainability at the Gauteng Schools Programme Award Ceremony.
Held at Walter Sisulu Botanical Gardens in early March, the Gauteng awards saw Moduopo Primary School and Ipontshe Primary School receive an International Green Flag, which is awarded to eco-schools who have sustained and implemented five environmental eco themes.
Six schools earned silver awards, namely Tsimong and Ekukayisweni primary schools, Tembisa School of Specialisation, Buhlebemfundo and Soshanguve secondary schools and Mamelodi East Prevocational School.
“The programme had a positive impact on both learners and teachers. Through WESSA we learnt how to take care of our school, and were encouraged to be considerate of the environment,” explained Goitsemodimo Loeto, a teacher at Tsimong Primary School.
The Sun International Eco-Schools Programme has impacted 14 426 learners at 19 schools around the country since 2022, fostering environmental awareness, scientific skills, and a deeper connection to nature through conducting biodiversity surveys.
Pickitup’s manager of education awareness and community development, Smith Kelomo, delivered the keynote address, emphasising the importance of environmental education and waste management in schools and communities.
Sun International SED manager Heidi Edson said the hospitality giant’s socioeconomic development focused on uplifting the standard of education in the country.
“Sun International’s goal is to instil a sense of empowerment, inspiring future careers in science, technology, engineering, and math fields, and ultimately, play a significant role in promoting sustainability, and environmental stewardship,” she said.
“Involvement in citizen science projects not only benefits their education but also contributes to data collection for scientific research and conservation efforts,” said WESSA project manager, Nomfundo Ndlovu.
“Participation in citizen science at school is beneficial as it offers hands-on learning experiences, fosters environmental awareness, and nurtures critical thinking skills.
“It promotes interdisciplinary learning, community involvement, scientific literacy, and civic engagement, empowering students to become responsible and informed citizens.”
After the event, The South African National Biodiversity Institute team took the teachers on a guided walk through the Botanical Gardens, enriching their appreciation of South Africa’s biodiversity.
