Cape Town - Primary school pupils from around Cape Town were able to learn about nature and gain access to the green economy through participating in Nature Connect’s Sustainable Schools programme after GrandWest Casino and Entertainment World donated just over R198 000 towards the initiative.
Nature Connect, which supports the preservation of Cape Town’s biodiverse natural heritage through education, training and conservation initiatives, wants to lead in shaping the future of education for sustainable development “in South Africa and beyond” through their Sustainable Schools programme.
Pupils were selected from Hillwood, Floreat, Harmony, Stephen Road, Montagu’s Gift, Square Hill, St Mary’s RC, St Clements, Levana and Fairview primary schools in the Western Cape to participate in this programme.
During their time participating, Sustainable Schools Programme, manager Jocelyn Anderson said pupils had the opportunity to grow their passion for the environment by taking part in overnight camps and conservation activities that exposed them to the biodiversity of the country.
“Learners are able to spend time with like-minded peers and grow together as a supportive community while developing the skills needed to live a more conscious and sustainable life. In addition, Nature Connect provides them with mentorship, support and career guidance,” said Anderson.
GrandWest general manager Mervyn Naidoo said they had a good partnership with Nature Connect in previous years, which involved hosting environmental education camps with selected GrandWest adopted schools, with a goal of inspiring youth to take action for the environment and to expose them to career options in the green economy.
“It was wonderful to meet the enthusiastic learners when we joined them on a hike to Silver Peak. They were all very curious about the world around them and dedicated to preserving our natural world for generations to come.
“GrandWest is pleased to partner with Nature Connect to help encourage our country’s future leaders to conserve our biodiversity,” Naidoo said.
One of the Sustainable Schools strategies funded by GrandWest is Nature Connect’s Conservation Leadership Project.
Anderson said this project was a long-term investment in learners with a passion for nature, as Grade 6 learners from select registered Nature Connect schools were invited to participate in monthly nature-based activities until they leave school in Grade 12.
Schools interested in learning more or how they can participate in the Sustainable Schools Programme are encouraged to email sustainableschools@natureconnect.earth
kristin.engel@inl.co.za