Acorn to Oaks Secondary School in Acornhoek the pioneer of aquaponics project
The project is aimed to improve learning at this school.
The Mpumalanga Department of Education, in partnership with the Department of Agriculture, Rural Development, Land and Environmental Affairs, USA-based Fresh Ministries, Conservation SA and Be the Change Africa, launched the Acorn to Oaks Aquaponics project at the Acorn to Oaks Secondary School in Acornhoek, Bohlabela District, on Wednesday June 8.
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The project, funded by Fresh Ministries, started in 2019 and is a response to global climate change.
It uses green technology to breed tilapia fish and grow lettuce, coriander, beetroot, garlic, onions, cabbages, tomatoes, pumpkins, strawberries and parsley, among others.
The spokesperson for the Department of Education, Jasper Zwane, said, “Aquaponics is farming fish and using the water from the fish tank to grow plants without using soil. The science behind this technology and innovation is useful for physical sciences, life sciences and mathematics learners, as they will see the application of science mathematics principles in real life just next to their school.”
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The aquaponics project was appropriately launched at this school since it is a mathematics, science and technology school. This project will assist to teach learners new models of food production.
“Food security at the school has been guaranteed, and a teaching tool for agricultural sciences and technology has been secured.”
Zwane expressed its appreciation to all the role players on behalf of the department.
