Sefika Primary triumphs at Environment Day Schools Competition

Sefika Primary School learners in Molapo, Soweto proved their mettle by beating the odds and claiming victory at the Gauteng provincial World Environment Day Schools Awareness Competition in Silverton, east of Pretoria.

The group of Grade 6 learners participated in the school’s competition organised by the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and Environment overcoming stiff competition from other schools from the Tshwane, Sedibeng and Mogale City Municipalities.

World Environment Day, held annually on June 5, is an occasion to celebrate and act for the environment. This year’s theme #BeatPlasticPollution calls for solutions to plastic pollution and seeks to encourage positive changes in the world.

Six learners between the ages of 11 and 12 were chosen to represent the school and presented their #BeatPlasticPollution campaign on June 22.

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The learners highlighted strategies –including waste disposal, reduction, and recycling – which were meant to educate others about plastic waste management.

“We did a lot of research on the matter. I was nervous before the learners were called to the stage, but they did really well,” said teacher Tshililo Mukhuba, who along with teacher Nothile Vilakazi helped their learners prepare their presentation in the weeks leading up to the competition.

He added that they were thrilled that Sefika will represent Gauteng at the national competition at a date yet to be announced.

Through their #BeatPlasticPollution campaign, Sefika was presented with a R50 000 cash prize and the honour of representing Gauteng at the national competition, while the runner-up and third-place respectively pocketed R30 000 and R20 000.

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Principal Peter Kgwedi was overwhelmed with the learners’ hard work, saying they should be proud of their impressive presentation on waste management strategies.