WORLD Environment Day was celebrated at Mondeor Primary School on June 5 with school principal Clinton Spider opening the special assembly, which was held in the gardens of the school.
Generation Earth’s Catherine and Ella Bella Constantinides addressed the Grade Seven learners and introduced the invited guests, Anita Dutt (political and economic officer of the High Commission of Canada), Welisa Nene (communications manager of Makro, one of the sponsors), Jason Greer (host of The Bachelor SA) and Miss Earth semi-regional finalists.
Dutt chatted and interacted with the Grade Seven’s about the importance of saving the world.
“We have to stop polluting the world and each one of you can help by doing your bit,” she said. “Canada adheres to many rules to help keep our country environmentally safe and South Africa has also signed charters to help, one being the Paris Agreement which focuses on climate global warning.
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“Replanting trees which have been chopped down is a great way to conserve oxygen levels. See all these beautiful trees in this garden, well they are helping to save the world.”
Ella Bella added: “Today is all about learning and to share what you learn today with those who can’t be here. Catherine and I used to be learners at this school and we are now coming back to teach you something special.”
Being a role model
Ella Bella spoke about how important it is to be a role model.
“If you see rubbish on the school pathways, pick it up and put it in a rubbish bin. Others will see you do this and will think this is the right thing to do.”
Painted hands, which had been painted by the learners, were handed out by Miss Earth semi-regional finalists and each learner at the special assembly was asked to write a pledge of something they could do which would help to save the environment.
After the assembly, trees and succulents were planted in the school’s garden.
“We have chosen succulents for the sunny spots and pepper bark trees for the shady areas,” added Catherine, as she got stuck in with the planting. The trees were donated by Sappi.
The learners and some staff members, along with Catherine, Ella Bella and guests, began to plant the succulents and trees and were asked to name each one which was planted.
“This makes them feel special and loved and they will show their gratitude by growing beautifully,” added Ella Bella.
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