Ithembeilhle LSEN School has welcomed Collins Nonyana as its new technical occupational curriculum assistant teacher, where he will impart his deep-rooted knowledge and passion for agriculture to learners.
Nonyana’s journey at the school began three years ago as a garden general assistant, where he played a key role in maintaining the school’s garden and grounds.
His dedication to agriculture naturally led him to assist learners in gardening activities, often involving them in hands-on projects.
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Nonyana’s interest in agriculture was sparked at a young age, heavily influenced by his parents’ careers in the field.
His passion for farming intensified when he visited his mother’s workplace on a coffee farm in Mpumalanga.
“After matric, I moved to Gauteng and met Andre Pienaar. My enthusiasm for agriculture led me to work with him for two years at his landscape and irrigation company,” Nonyana explained.
“He later introduced me to a friend who ran Plantyard Nursery in Meadowdale, where I worked for 12 years. They provided in-house training that covered everything from plant germination to customer service.”
Nonyana’s love for the earth has driven him to teach agriculture at Ithembelihle LSEN School. He leads various garden projects and teaches the learners about farming.
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“Everything we grow at the school supports our soup kitchen, and sometimes we sell surplus produce to generate income for the school,” he said.
To adapt to the learners’ needs, many of whom face physical challenges, Nonyana introduced new farming techniques.
His efforts have yielded significant results, including producing over 10 buckets of tomatoes for the first time.
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The school’s garden also thrives with strawberries, herbs, spinach, and cabbage grown through crop rotation and seasonal planting practices.
Nonyana credits a Zimbabwean colleague, Chippa, for helping him further enhance his skills and knowledge.
Nonyana’s commitment to agriculture and education continues to make a meaningful impact at Ithembelihle LSEN School.
